CU4012 - Game Programming (2022/23)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2022/23 | ||||||||||||||||
| Module title | Game Programming | ||||||||||||||||
| Module level | Certificate (04) | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 30 | ||||||||||||||||
| School | School of Computing and Digital Media | ||||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 300 | ||||||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2022/23(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module is essentially an introduction to programming for computer games, intended to build students' confidence and interest in technical aspects of games development. Students will develop an understanding of the skills required to build games for different platforms, including console, web, computer and mobile.
• introduce students to C++ and other games programming languages
• develop skills in graphics programming and simple maths and physics in code
• develop the necessary communication skills required for working in teams in the games and digital media industries
• enable students to design and produce simple 2D games to a high standard
Syllabus
• introduction to C++;
• basic programming concepts for 2D games engines;
• object-oriented design; LO1, LO2
• principles of software engineering; LO3, LO4
• writing optimal code; LO5
• best practice for communicating ideas in a programming team;
• user interface design - control and playability;
• professionalism - user-testing and development life cycles
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
A problem based learning approach will be used in the module delivery. Students will develop theoretical understanding and practical skills based on weekly lectures, tutorials and supervised workshops.
Appropriate blended learning approaches and technologies, such as, the University’s VLE and online
tools, will be used to facilitate and support student learning to:
• deliver content;
• encourage active learning;
• provide formative and summative assessments, and prompt feedback;
• enhance student engagement and learning experience.
Students will be expected and encouraged to present their solutions to the class, share knowledge and offer each other support and advice within their cohort.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
LO1 – communicate ideas effectively
LO2 – apply skills to the fulfillment of a brief
LO3 – understand software development life-cycles
LO4 – develop ability to solve problems and create interactive applications
LO5 – develop skills in games/graphics programming by using an integrated programming development environment competently
Assessment strategy
Students develop their game programming skills in a range of contexts, learning and applying C++ and a scripting language to the development of three different small games – a text-based game, a tile-based game and a game using simple physics and graphics libraries.
Bibliography
Textbooks:
• Core Text:
Mark Gregoire (2011) Professional C++, Wrox; 2nd Revised Ed. ISBN-10: 0470932449
Websites:
Materials will include current articles on the Internet relating to Games and Digital industry.
http://www.cplusplus.com/
http://www.learncpp.com/
http://www.cprogramming.com/
https://www.youtube.com/user/shiffman