This course introduces students to the core principles and practices of game design, focusing on how games are conceptualized, structured, and developed. Learners will explore the foundations of creating engaging gameplay experiences, from designing rules and mechanics to building immersive narratives and interactive environments.
The module covers:
Fundamentals of game design theory and player psychology
Game mechanics, rules, goals, and feedback systems
Level design and world-building basics
Storytelling and narrative design in games
Introduction to prototyping and playtesting
Overview of industry-standard game engines and tools
Through hands-on exercises and projects, students will learn to design their own game concepts, develop simple prototypes, and analyze what makes games fun, balanced, and engaging. By the end of the course, learners will have the foundational knowledge to pursue more advanced studies in game development, interactive media, and digital entertainment.
The Game Design Fundamentals module provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the art and science of designing games. It focuses on the creative, technical, and psychological aspects that make games engaging and enjoyable for players.
Students will begin by exploring the core principles of game design, including rules, mechanics, goals, and feedback systems, before moving into areas such as level design, storytelling, and player experience. The course also introduces students to industry-standard tools and engines for prototyping, enabling them to translate design ideas into playable experiences.
By the end of the module, learners will:
Understand the principles of game mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics.
Develop simple game concepts and prototypes.
Apply storytelling and narrative design techniques to enhance gameplay.
Analyze and critique existing games to identify what makes them successful.
Gain foundational knowledge for advanced studies in game development, animation, and interactive media.
This module emphasizes hands-on learning and encourages creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving, preparing students to think like game designers while building the foundation for careers in the gaming and digital entertainment industry.
Day 1 – Introduction to Game Design
Basics of game design, types of games, and player psychology.
Day 2 – Game Mechanics & Systems
Designing rules, goals, challenges, and feedback systems.
Day 3 – Level & World Design
Principles of level design, world-building, and storytelling.
Day 4 – Prototyping & Playtesting
Creating prototypes, testing ideas, and refining through feedback.
Day 5 – Final Project & Presentation
Developing a small game concept and presenting a playable prototype.
What is game design? Overview of the industry
Types of games (digital, board, mobile, VR/AR)
Key elements: mechanics, dynamics, aesthetics
Player psychology and motivation (why people play)
Exercise: Analyze a popular game and identify its core mechanics
Designing rules, goals, challenges, and feedback loops
Balancing difficulty and fairness
Core vs. secondary mechanics
Reward systems and player progression
Exercise: Create a simple game concept focused on one core mechanic
Principles of level design (flow, pacing, exploration)
Building immersive environments and worlds
Storytelling through level design
Introduction to narrative design and player choice
Exercise: Sketch a level map with clear objectives and challenges
Introduction to prototyping tools (paper prototypes & digital engines like Unity/Unreal basics)
Iterative design: testing, feedback, and refinement
Importance of playtesting and user feedback
Exercise: Build and test a basic paper or digital prototype
Bringing it all together: concept, mechanics, levels, and storytelling
Polishing a prototype for presentation
Pitching a game idea (communicating concept, target audience, and gameplay)
Final Project: Develop and present a small-scale game design prototype with documentation
Game Designer
Level Designer
Narrative Designer
Game Writer
Gameplay Systems Designer
User Experience (UX) Designer for Games
Game Producer / Associate Producer
Interactive Media Designer
Indie Game Developer
201901011352 (1320680-K)
