Introduction
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.
Summary
| Unit name | Games Fundamentals |
| Unit code | KIT109 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Information and Communication Technology |
| Discipline | Information & Communication Technology |
| Coordinator | Doctor Ian Lewis |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Introductory |
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Communicate the design and development processes of games
- Apply principles and technical skills to develop games
- Identify and analyse user needs and take them into account in the design and implementation of games
- Analyse the diverse usage and broad impact of games and virtual worlds on individuals, organizations, and society
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 1 x 2-hour Lecture weekly 1 x 1-hour Tutorial weekly — this unit will have joint on-campus/online classes facilitated using Discord 1 x 2-hour Tutorial weekly — this unit will have joint on-campus/online classes facilitated using Discord ~3–5 hours Self-Study weekly |
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| Assessment | Game Project Concept Document (5%)|Pong Game (5%)|Prescribed Game Project (20%)|Modules and Exercises (30%)|Game Project Implementation (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.