Module 2 Overview

MODULE 2
Science of
Game Design

After completing Module 2, participants will be able to:

Apply the process of game design and design frameworks
Describe the importance of iteration and prototyping
Explain the importance of MDA (mechanics, dynamics and aesthetics) as a game design framework
Identify the function of flow theory and decision-making in game design

Although there is no required sequence to completing this module, the order below is recommended.
(Click on the appropriate links to navigate the module).

READINGS & LEVELS	Press 'Next' button (bottom of this page) to start reading lessons in order, or click directly on the links below: Level 4 - Mechanics and Dynamics Level 5 - The Early Stages of the Design Process Level 6 - Decision-Making and Flow Theory Level 7 - Kinds of Fun, Kinds of Players
GAME MECHANICS RESEARCH	Go to the Game Play Library and play any or all of games the following playlists: INDIVIDUAL Playlist #5 Playlist #6 Playlist #7 Playlist #8 GROUP Small World online When done, post your comments and/or experiences on the FORUMS (Please select the Game-mechanics-research folder when posting your initial post and include name of game as the hashtag.)
SKILLS CHECK (Quiz)	MODULE 2 Skill Check (Quiz)
FORUMS	FORUMS are a place for student engagement and discussion. Post commentary to game mechanics research, side quests and main quests. Students can feel free to ask questions, post notes and take polls. Click on FORUMS tab in left-hand navigation. All posts are moderated.
SIDE QUESTS	Read each level and do the following Side Quests: Level 4 - Mechanics and Dynamics [ALL LEVELS] Game Changer - Iterating On An Existing Design Level 5 - The Early Stages of the Design Process [BASIC] Hard Port - Board Game Adaptation Of A Video Game [INTERMEDIATE] Hard Port - Board Game Adaptation Of A Video Game [EXPERT] Hard Port - Board Game Adaptation Of A Video Game Level 6 - Decision-Making and Flow Theory [BASIC] Military Intelligence - Mod Of A Game [INTERMEDIATE] Military Intelligence - Mod Of A Game [EXPERT] Military Intelligence - Mod Of A Game Level 7 - Kinds of Fun, Kinds of Players [ALL LEVELS] Good Grief - Griefing for Fun!
MAIN QUEST	Let's begin working on your design project - aka "Main Quest". Read the Main Quest Overview, if you haven't reviewed it yet. Then move on to STEP 1: Generate Ideas. Pick from the following design parameters, based on your game design experience level: [BASIC] Main Quest: Ideas [INTERMEDIATE] Main Quest: Ideas [EXPERT] Main Quest: Ideas Once you've started posting your ideas, read over your feedback (replies to your post) and/or post your feedback to other ideas in the FORUMS (remember to include hashtag #MQideas plus the name of game in your post.)

If you have any questions or comments, please post them to FORUM. The course instructor, a forum moderator or another student will usually respond quickly.

Additional Links: Course Syllabus, Course Overview, Canvas FAQ/Help