Principles of Game Design
About This Course
Principles of Game Design refers to the development of a game’s playable context – its visual language, player engagement, rules and systems and game dynamics. In this course, learners will be introduced to the core terminology that forms the central principles for an engaging game. Working with fundamental game mechanics such as goals, feedback, user interface, player agency, progression, balance, loops, and player reward, a comprehensive understanding of these principles will provide and equip learners with a skillset to develop original games and a strong vocabulary to communicate and collaborate with colleagues from other disciplines on game design projects.
What You'll Learn
1. Describe how principles of visual language, player agency, game mechanics and game systems contribute to the design and experience of games.
2. Develop proficient understanding of game mechanics and systems to create player engagement and balanced gameplay systems.
3. Apply principles of visual design and game systems together to create and present a game concept suitable for development.
4. Create a game demo prototype that demonstrates visual design, capable game mechanics and systems, and player engagement.
Entry Requirements
Learners from various academic and professional backgrounds are welcome - especially in computer science, art, design, media, and engineering. No prior artistic education is required. Learners with the following are encouraged to apply:
1. Passion for game design and technology.
2. An IELTS score of ≥ 6.5 or a TOEFL score of ≥ 90, taken within the last two years if English is not your first language, or if your medium of instruction at the tertiary level was not English.
3. An artistic portfolio and/or demo reel may be required to showcase your creativity, technical skills and understanding of game design principles and/or visual development. Include game prototypes, level designs, 3D models, animations, concept art or process documentation. Please disclose any use of generative AI in your work.
Shortlisting will be conducted for this course.