module specification

CU6067 - Networking for Games (2025/26)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2025/26
Module title Networking for Games
Module level Honours (06)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Computing and Digital Media
Total study hours 150
 
50 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
64 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 40%   Networked chat application
Coursework 60%   Networked game
Running in 2025/26

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Autumn semester North Tuesday Morning

Module summary

This module builds students’ skills in building multiplayer games on a variety of platforms.  They will understand the terminology and complexity of networking and learn how to use appropriate tools and libraries to create networked applications.

AIMS
• appreciate networking theory
• be able to apply theory to practical networked applications through writing server-side and client-side code
• design and build multiplayer games

Prior learning requirements

Working knowledge of C++ and C#

Syllabus

Principles of networking applications for multiuser experiences
Multithreading
Advanced C++
Multiplayer game design techniques and challenges
Memory management
Methods for file handling and data driving

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Students will develop theoretical understanding and practical skills based on weekly lectures, tutorials and supervised workshops. The workshops, in particular, are provided to enable group discussions and give opportunities for teamwork experience and practical support.

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.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

LO1 Develop skills in writing server/client code for networked multiuser applications
LO2 Develop games that can be interconnected and communicate with each other
LO3 Apply advanced and modern C++ techniques used within multiplayer games development
LO4 Learn principles and application of multithreaded programming.

Bibliography