Games (whether they be video games, console games, computer games, mobile games, or web games) differ from other media as they elevate the viewer to the level of a participant. Games are an ever-growing cultural phenomenon which has increasing relevance to people's day-to-day lives and well as significant economic importance.

In this unit, students will be exposed to the basics of game development technology and game design, via an intensive process learning practical skills for developing games and the application of these in the development of their own small game in the Unity game engine. Students will be given the option to complete a Unity Certification course at the conclusion of the unit.

While games are typically "fun", they are also increasingly being developed for non-entertainment uses, through so-called serious gaming and by the use of gamification. Supplementing the practical component, this unit will introduce such games as they are used to make social statements and to drive social change; for education and training; for rehabilitation and health; for research; and for art's sake alone. This unit will also examine controversial game content, the effects of game playing, and various ethical concerns.

This unit will feature guest speakers who will provide unique personal insights into the workings of the games industry and advice on how to best prepare for employment within it.

Completing this unit will provide you with the opportunity to obtain the Unity Certified User: Programmer professional industry certification via completion of a certification exam.

Students need to get permission from the unit coordinator to enrol in the online offering. This online offering is primarily for students enrolled in the Diploma of ICT Professional Practice (including the Undergraduate Certificate in ICT Professional Practice) who might need to complete the unit online. Online students will need to attend online tutorials.