Course Description

Course Name

Computer Games

Session: VCPS3118

Hours & Credits

24 Host University Units

Prerequisites & Language Level

Course entry requirements: CSC2001F, MAM1000W or equivalent.

Taught In English

  • There is no language prerequisite for courses at this language level.

Overview

This course introduces high-level game programming concepts and practical game construction. By the end of the course, students will be able to design and implement simple 2D games. The course begins with a basic introduction to games and game genres for students unfamiliar with gaming, before exploring the game development process. Appropriate terminology, methods, and tools for computer game development are introduced. Fundamentals algorithms for 2D game development and implementation are covered, including pathfinding algorithms suited to tile-based games. Text-based games are also briefly explored using Inform7. This is a practical course where students design and implement games using GameMaker for simple prototyping, before
switching to a Java-based game engine which students can extend. The final deliverable is a fully functional 2D game which implements many of the techniques explored in lectures.
DP requirements: Minimum of 45% aggregate in practical work, minimum of 50% in practical test and minimum of 40% in theory tests.
Assessment: Tests count for 16.7%; practicals, practical test and projects count 33.3%; one 3-hour paper written in November counts 50%. Subminima: 45%
on weighted average of theory tests and examination.

*Course content subject to change