Course Overview:
Great games can immerse us in wondrous, compelling new worlds. And now, with the rise of mobile game technology—rich, compelling interactive experiences are available inexpensively, in your pocket, and at your fingertips. This course guides you through the essentials of mobile game design and development, including such topics as: picking the right engine, building a cross-functional team, developing artwork, integrating sound, prototyping, bug triage, polishing, publishing and marketing.
Along the way, we examine the role of the game designer—including the process of generating ideas, writing professional game design documents, and defining core loops, mechanics, dynamics, and systems. Next, we dive into character systems and the mechanics of chance, skill, tactics, and strategy. We define what makes mobile game design unique from desktop or console, including such considerations and affordances as UI (user interface) and UX (user experience), screen resolution, touch and swipe, the accelerometer, and optimizing for performance across operating systems and devices—including iOS and Android, phone and tablet. In addition, students learn to pitch their ideas and explain how their game works—and why users will love it. We look at how to develop a game design portfolio in order to break into the game industry.
Learning Outcomes:
Students should come away from this course on Mobile Game Design inspired by this fascinating subject; equipped with a balance of theoretical understanding and practical skills; and equipped with the beginnings of a game design portfolio, (which can be built upon). Upon completion of Mobile Game Design, students will be able to:
