Computer Game Design and Implementation
EECS 494: Fall 2009
Course Homepage


Class Information

Offered:

Fall 2009

In this course we will study the technology, science, and art involved in the creation of computer games. The course will emphasize hands-on development of games. We will study a variety of software technologies relevant to games including programming languages, scripting languages, operating systems, file systems, networks, simulation engines, and multi-media design systems. We will also study some of the underlying scientific concepts from computer science and related fields including: simulation and modeling, graphics, artificial intelligence, real-time processing, and game theory. Finally, we will study the art and design principles for developing useable and engaging games including: software engineering, human computer interaction, thematic structure, graphic design, choreography, music and sound effects, and game aesthetics.

The course will include visiting lectures and a variety of group projects. The group projects will involve system implementation, but emphasize design and use of existing tools. The final group project will require the students to go through all phases of system conceptualization, specification, design, implementation, and evaluation.

We assume significant programming experience and knowledge of programming language concepts. We also assume student can learn new programming concepts and systems (such as DirectX or OpenGL) on their own.

All assignments are to be handed in via cTools.

Instructors:

John Laird

3753 CSE

Office Hours by Appointment

 

Mitchell Bloch

bazald@umich.edu

Prerequisites:

EECS 281

Meeting Times:

M, W: 3:00-4:30
F: 3:30-4:30

Location:

1017 DOW

Recommended Reading

Introduction to Game Development, Edited by Steve Rabin, Charles River Media

Game Architecture and Design, Rollings and Morris, Coriolis Publishing.

Game Design: The Art and Business of Creating Games, Bates, Prima Tech.

Andrew Rollings and Ernest Adams on Game Design: Rollings and Adams, New Riders.

Game Design: Theory and Practice, Rouse, Wordware Game Developer's Library.

3D Game Engine Design, David H. Eberly, Morgan Kaufmann.

Game Programming Gems 1, 2, 3, 4 Mark DeLoura, Charles River Media.

Class Related Links

·        Class Introduction and Details:

·        Class Schedule

Assignments:

 

  • 2007 Showcase Games: All of the final projects from this course, ready for you to download.
  • 2006 Showcase Games: All of the final projects from this course, ready for you to download.
  • 2005 Showcase Games: All of the final projects from this course, ready for you to download.
  • 2004 Showcase Games: All of the final projects from this course, ready for you to download.
Last Updated: August 26, 2009