Overview

• Principles and theory of games and of play
• Immersion, presence, flow
• History of video games and video game industry
• Relationship between games, culture and society
• Elements of games (narrative, aesthetics, dynamics, mechanics, players and audience)
• Video game genres

Assessment Strategy

-Threshold - Equivalent to 40%.Uses key areas of theory or knowledge to meet the Learning Outcomes of the module. Is able to formulate an appropriate solution to accurately solve tasks and questions. Can identify individual aspects, but lacks an awareness of links between them and the wider contexts. Outputs can be understood, but lack structure and/or coherence.

-Good - Equivalent to the range 60%-69%.Is able to analyse a task or problem to decide which aspects of theory and knowledge to apply. Solutions are of a workable quality, demonstrating understanding of underlying principles. Major themes can be linked appropriately but may not be able to extend this to individual aspects. Outputs are readily understood, with an appropriate structure but may lack sophistication.

-Excellent - Equivalent to the range 70%+.Assemble critically evaluated, relevant areas of knowledge and theory to constuct professional-level solutions to tasks and questions presented. Is able to cross-link themes and aspects to draw considered conclusions. Presents outputs in a cohesive, accurate, and efficient manner.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse and present a game not studied in class.

• Critically analyse a game in terms of narrative, aesthetics, game play mechanics and audience.

• Evaluate relation of games to modern history of video games and video game industry.

• Recognise the relationship between games, culture and society.

• Understand and apply basic game principles and theory.