What This Document Is
This document is an exam from CMPS 80K, Foundations of Interactive Game Design, offered at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Specifically, it’s the first exam administered in the Winter 2007 term. The exam assesses understanding of core concepts discussed in the course, applying them to a specific game example used for demonstration purposes. It’s designed to evaluate a student’s ability to analyze game mechanics and relate them to established game design theory.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is valuable for students currently enrolled in, or planning to take, Foundations of Interactive Game Design. It’s particularly helpful for understanding the *types* of analytical questions asked on assessments within the course. Reviewing this exam can help you gauge your preparedness and identify areas where you might need further study. It’s best used *after* completing relevant coursework and readings, as a practice tool to solidify your comprehension. Accessing the full exam will allow you to test your knowledge and see how course concepts are applied in a formal assessment setting.
Topics Covered
* Game Classification (Emergence vs. Progression)
* Game Exhaustion Mechanics
* Cardinality of Gameplay
* Application of Game Design Theory to Specific Game Examples
* Analysis of Game Rules and Behaviors
* Understanding of Core Game Design Concepts
What This Document Provides
* A complete exam paper as administered in a university-level game design course.
* Context regarding the game used as a case study for analysis.
* Insight into the expected format and difficulty of course assessments.
* A framework for applying theoretical concepts to practical game examples.
* A point of reference for understanding key terminology and analytical approaches used in the course.
