Computer Games Design and Programming

Introduction To Graphics Programming

This module will introduce you to the fundamentals of computer graphics in games and graphical programming techniques applied to games.

Module code: GDEV40026

Game Prototyping

You will be taught from scratch how to design, develop and enhance your own early-stage game prototypes using prototyping techniques and scripting in an industry-standard game engine. This will include how to manage your time effectively.

Module code: GDEV40010

Programming Fundamentals

There are a wide range of core programming concepts that a required to understand before you can create more complex games and applications. In this module we will introduce the techniques required to get started in the world of programming, this means topics such as: data types, conditionals, functions, and object-oriented programming will be taught which will culminate in the development of a text-based game.

Module code: GDEV40024

Computational Methods

Computer games systems need to solve computational problems very quickly, in order to deliver the best experience possible. In Computational Methods, students will learn the kinds of techniques, developed through computer science, that can help to solve computational problems in the most efficient ways possible. Students will also learn to appreciate just how long problems can take if the more efficient techniques are not employed.

Module code: GDEV40015

C# Scripting For Games Engines

This module considers an introduction to the fundamentals of scripting in C#. Scripting is an important tool in developing interactive and fun experiences for players. You will learn how to leverage the power of C# scripting to technically design and build interactive gameplay solutions.

Module code: GDEV40008

Mechanics Prototyping

This module develops further students’ understanding of game mechanic creation using a game engine. Students will learn how to plan, communicate and implement core game concepts, such as characters, enemies and game loops in order to create fun, playable prototypes of their own design.

Module code: GDEV40018

Advanced Mechanics Design

You will explore how adding a dimension to gameplay adds to the possibilities of what can be created. On completion of this module, you will be able to design complex mechanics with an understanding of how the end user will interact with them.

Module code: GDEV50004

Game Audio

Module code: GDEV50031

Junior Collaborative Games Development

Students will work in a junior role in a group comprised of students from across the suite of games development courses to mimic a games development studio. They will work with other juniors and level 6 students who take the role of seniors, to make a vertical slice of a game.

Module code: GDEV50001

User Interface Design And Implementation

This module will explore the key principles of User Interface design as you research existing Interfaces in games and then design your own. You will explore a range of User Experience principles and use these skills and knowledge to implement your own User Interface into a game engine.

Module code: GDEV50042

C++ For Engines

You will explore how to make truly efficient systems within a commercial engine structure utilising both C++ and visual scripting. Completing this module will give you a keen understanding of how programmers can make systems that designers can easily work with without tangling your code.

Module code: GDEV50010

Tools Development

Creating tools and unique systems to help improve and streamline the games development process is vital to ensuring consistency of tasks, speed of development and the quality of the game. Tools can range from build systems, procedural content generation, asset creation and more. In this module you will learn how to identify problems, conduct research, design a solution and ultimate create a system.

Module code: GDEV50047

Experimental Gameplay

Module code: GDEV50015

Introduction To Mechanics Design

You will explore different smoke and mirrors trickery used within the games industry to make games feel better to play. On completion of this module, you will understand how to manipulate your systems to make them feel more fun.

Module code: GDEV50024

Game Artificial Intelligence

What are fundamental Artificial Intelligence skills a student needs to build their own games and enter the games industry? Game Artificial Intelligence addresses this question and provides the knowledge and practical skills in four key areas: Research, Steering behaviours, Pathfinding (i.e. A*) and Decision Making. The module assessment challenges you to understand the importance of not just implementing AI algorithms, but also to engage in problem solving and research into the state-of-the-art AI methods employed in industry.

Module code: GDEV50025

Dta Industrial Placement

Module code: PLAC00003

Low-Level Gameplay

You will remake a classic arcade game with modern practices in a low-level language. This will give you a round-up of everything needed to make a game in a scaled down setting without the extra challenges of designing a whole new game. On completion of the module, you will be better equipped to tackle challenges of modern game design.

Module code: GDEV60023

Games Development Project

The Games Development Project module gives students an opportunity to undertake an in-depth piece of research testing and analysis or a high-quality artefact, ready for their portfolio. You can focus your studies on your career aspirations. Whether it's stylised game characters, stalking AI monsters, procedural environments, immersive level design, or a concept for futuristic vehicles. The project allows you the opportunity to work with a supervisor and tailor the project to you. Your supervisor will be your guide and project manager. Supporting you in your journey to create a highly developed outcome with industry standard software whilst receiving lectures on portfolio development and employability.

Module code: GDEV60001

Multiplayer Mechanics Programming

You will design and implement a multiplayer prototype using a game engine. Students will specifically focus on how mechanics change within a multiplayer setting using industry standard methods. On completion of this module, you will have a better understanding of how small multiplayer games work better equipping you to jump into a larger commercial multiplayer project.

Module code: GDEV60027

Prototyping For Technical Designers

Prototyping for Technical Designers will help you launch your Technical Games Design portfolio. In this module you’ll produce Technical Games Design projects within leading Game Engines. You’ll projects will be supported by excellent Technical Design Documentation and presented by demo reels.

Module code: GDEV60031

Multiplayer Level Design

In multiplayer level design you will design, evaluate, and improve a multiplayer map over several rounds of iterations. Through this process you will develop knowledge of multiplayer design and the methods and tools used in the industry to design balanced and engaging levels. You will complete the module with a portfolio ready multiplayer level.

Module code: GDEV60026

Senior Collaborative Games Development

Students will work in a senior role in a group comprised of students from across the suite of games development courses to mimic a games development studio. They will work with other seniors to effectively support and lead a team including level 5 students, to make a vertical slice of a game.

Module code: GDEV60033