INF-3910-8 Computer Science Seminar: GameLab - 10 stp

The students will learn the complete cycle of game development from idea to launch by developing a game with user experience and technology good enough that it can be launched as a product.

The students will learn to develop games. The students will choose their own programming languages, game development frameworks, and other technologies in the software stack. The students are encouraged to build on state-of-the-art game engines, SDKs or services for their games.

The course will therefore cover all steps in the game development process:

• Design: Create a game design and write a design document.
• Technology: Select and reason about the correct technological choices for the designed game taking into account time, resources, technical performance and user experience constraints.
• Team: Decide roles and share tasks and responsibilities across a team based on suitable skillset and area of interest.
• Process: Agree on the software engineering process, milestones and approach to development.
• Development: Implement a complete game in the allocated time that has the required performance and that provides a usable and fun experience for the player.
• Business: Launch the game on the target platforms app store with a clear business plan for how and why the game can earn money.

Admission requirements: Higher Education Entrance Requirement + Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or similar education. The Bachelor degree must contain a specialization in Computer Science worth the equivalent of not less than 80 ECTS credits.

Application code: 9371 - Singular courses at master's level

During the semester the students will design, implement and launch their own game. This allows the students to learn and explore a combination of valuable topics such as programming, entrepreneurship, game design and development process.

Knowledge - The student can:

• Understand the fundamental principles of game design, including game mechanics, gameplay systems, player motivation, and game balancing.
• Know the game development tools and technologies commonly used in the industry, including game engines, programming languages, 3D modeling and animation software, and audio tools.
• Be familiar with the principles of user experience (UX) design, including user research, interface design, and usability testing.
• Understand the importance of playtesting and iteration in game development, including the use of feedback and data to improve the game.

Skills - The student can:

• Create a Game Design Document that outlines the basic concept, mechanics, and gameplay of a game.
• Balance game mechanics, level design, and systems to create a fun and challenging game experience for players.
• Implement game mechanics and systems
• Design intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that enhance the player's experience.
• Collect and analyze feedback from playtesting sessions and use that feedback to iterate and improve their game designs.
• Collaborate effectively with other team members to create a cohesive game experience.
• Deploy a game in a game marketplace.

General competence - The student can:

• Come up with innovative ideas for game mechanics, level design, storytelling, and other aspects of game development.
• Think critically and solve game design and technical problems effectively.
• Work in a team and communicate well with other team members.
• Manage time effectively to meet project milestones and deliverables.
• Adapt to new game engines, SDKs, and other technologies, trends, and design practices quickly.
• Create experiences that engage and delight players.

The course lectures will be held by a combination of faculty professors, students and industry professionals and range across topics directly related to the deliverables of the course. The lectures are followed up by individual meetings with student teams in order to follow up and secure understanding and progress over the various stages of the project.

Lectures: 30 hours, Colloquium: 30 hours, Laboratory guidance: 30 hours.