Introduction to 2D Game Development

Course Brief Description:

This five-day workshop is ideal for anyone 16 and up, who is interested in taking an idea for a 2D video game and turning it into a reality. While this workshop examines basic programming techniques, it also explores the various disciplines needed to create a game, including game design, art production and sound design. Participants will not only gain a new appreciation for the hard work that goes into making a 2D video game, but they will also expand their knowledge regarding the tools needed to bring their own game ideas to life.

Learning Outcomes:

• To demonstrate the ability to compare and contrast different 2D video game types.
• To explore basic production skills with a commercial game engine, to design and create game mechanics for a 2D arcade-style video game.
• To acquire the ability to implement a short working game project, including all the aspects of the development: game design, art assets creation, sound design, coding, bug fixing and playtesting.
• To obtain knowledge regarding the roles and career opportunities within the game development industry, as well as knowing the academic pathways into the industry.

Learning Objectives:

• Learning interaction and game design techniques such as: brainstorming, prototyping, play testing, iteration, system tuning, motivations and rewards, inputs, user interface and arc of experience.
• Mastering the key disciplines of game development including: production management, game design, coding, 2D art and animation production, sound design and music, and quality assurance.
• Defining the individual steps of the video game production process.
• Discussing and supporting the dynamics of video game production in a team setting.