Understanding Games

🚀 Course Title: Understanding Games: The Science & Art of Board and Video Games

🎓 Course Headline: Dive Into the World of Gaming: A Comprehensive Guide on How Video Games & Board Games Function

Course Description:

Are you fascinated by the intricate world of games but unsure where to start? Whether you're a student, educator, or gaming enthusiast, this course, Introduction to Game Studies: Theory and Design, is your gateway into understanding the mechanics, aesthetics, and design principles behind both video games and board games. Inspired by my university course of the same name, this online adaptation offers a non-technical journey into the heart of gaming. 📚🎮

Why Take This Course?

• Non-Technical Approach: No prior knowledge of game engines like Unity or Unreal is required.
• Versatile Skills: Learn concepts that are directly applicable to both video and board game creation.
• Historically Rich Content: Begin with the basics rooted in classic board games, then explore modern gaming dynamics.
• Thematic Sections for a Structured Learning Experience:
  1. 🔍 General Principles of Game Design: Lay the foundation with the core elements that make games engaging.
  2. 🌐 Storyworlds, Game Worlds & Interfaces: Understand how narratives and user interfaces bring worlds to life.
  3. 👤 Agency: Explore the role of player choice and decision-making in gameplay.
  4. ⚙️ Systems: Discover the complexities of systems thinking and how it can be applied to game design.

Course Highlights:

• Board Games as a Starting Point: We begin by studying board games, which have shaped the foundations of game design for centuries. This provides an accessible entry point into understanding the principles that also apply to video games.

• Interactive Learning: The course includes a challenge project where you'll design a prototype board game, allowing you to put your newfound knowledge into practice and solidify your understanding of game design theory.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is designed for anyone interested in the study and creation of games. Whether you're a student looking for an elective, a hobbyist eager to enhance your game-making skills, or a professional seeking to expand your design toolkit, this course provides valuable insights that will elevate your approach to game design. 🤝

Join us on this educational adventure and unlock the secrets behind compelling board games and video games. Enroll now to start your journey into the fascinating world of games! 🎲➡️🕹️