What This Document Is
This document, titled “Future Trends in Computer Games” from CMPS 80K at UC Santa Cruz, offers insights into the landscape of game design education and the broader computer games industry. It appears to be a compilation of lecture notes, course announcements, and observations on game design programs, culminating in a discussion of potential future directions within the field. It provides a snapshot of a game design course during a specific academic quarter, including details about student projects and final assessments.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is particularly valuable for students currently enrolled in, or considering enrolling in, a computer game design program. It’s also beneficial for anyone interested in understanding the different approaches to game design education – technically focused, interdisciplinary, and art focused – and how these approaches shape the skills and career paths of graduates. Individuals curious about the practical elements of game development, such as team projects, playtesting, and final game demonstrations, will find this overview helpful.
Topics Covered
* Different models for computer game design degree programs (technical, interdisciplinary, art-focused)
* Curriculum structure within a technically focused game design program
* Details regarding final student game demonstrations and judging criteria
* Information about a unique final exam component involving the creation of a non-computer game
* Opportunities for student involvement in playtesting senior-level game projects
* Considerations for game design, including originality and practical limitations
What This Document Provides
* An overview of course logistics, including event schedules and deadlines.
* A glimpse into the structure of a year-long senior game design studio project.
* A comparative analysis of different types of game design programs nationwide.
* Details about the components of a comprehensive game design curriculum, including graphics and AI sequences.
* A reference to a student-created game project as an example of work produced within the program.
* Insight into the expectations for a non-digital game design assignment.
