Foundations Of Game Design

Foundations of Game Design is a seminar and project-based course that teaches the mechanics and processes of game design. The principles learned in this class apply equally well to any interactive design discipline. Students analyze many types of games and design many games of their own, alone and in groups, using these principles.

A fundamentally human pursuit, games provide a vital window into human nature. Through understanding what motivates people and what constitutes “fun” we can create more meaningful and engaging experiences in all areas of digital and interactive media. This course explores game design from both a theoretical and applied standpoint.

We will explore the various aspects of games – from “indie” to “triple A” titles - including mechanics, emotion, agency, balance, motivation and the process of making games (plan, build, test and repeat!). It’s important to note that game design principles can be applied in ALL areas of digital media.

The course will consist of graduate level seminars and game deconstructions. Students will be expected to participate in classroom activities, and should show up prepared (having completed any necessary readings, or consumed any relevant media requested).

Throughout the course of the semester, students will deconstruct the design of existing games using the principles taught in class, complete individual and/or team-based assignments, and deliver a final team-based (5-6 students) comprehensive game design document and accompanying digital game prototype. The course is capped by a final class presentation of each team’s project.