SPI1003 Fundamental Game Design for programmers
- Course codeSPI1003
- Number of credits15
- Teaching semester2026 Autumn
- Language of instruction and examinationEnglish
- CampusHamar
- Required prerequisite knowledge
None
This course is an introductory exploration of the creative and theoretical aspects of game design and game development.
Content in the course:
- Object oriented programming
- Introduction to studio collaboration
- Fundamentals of game design
- Game testing, playtesting, and iteration as design tools
- Player psychology and motivation
- Project management methods in creative production
- Historical development of games
- Interdisciplinary product development
Learning outcome
A candidate who has completed the course has the following learning outcomes:
The candidate
- has theoretical and practical knowledge of fundamental game design principles
- has knowledge of object-oriented programming fundamentals for game programming
- is familiar with the historical development of the game industry
- has knowledge of project management processes in game development
- Understands the importance of playtesting in game design
- has knowledge of the tasks and work methods of a game designer on different game projects
The candidate
- can analyse simple games regarding the relationship between mechanics and the experience
- can use different techniques to balance existing and new game designs
- can specify and operationalise a game design with a view to creating a specific game experience
- can identify mechanics and game patterns in different types of games
- can write an analytical academic text
The candidate
- can explain and justify choice of design with reference to the syllabus
- has a theoretical and cognitive basis for further analytical and creative work with interactive productions
- has theoretical and practical experience through analysis and testing of games, and design and re-design of new and existing games
- can work in an interdisciplinary team
The course is organised as a combination of lectures, workshops, practical exercises, group work, self-study and supervision.
A central component is the board game project, where interdisciplinary groups of art and technology students collaborate to design, prototype, test, and finalise a playable game.
One group assignment will be in interdisciplinary groups together with students from Bachelor in Game Art and Animation.
Supervision will be conducted both at an individual level and in groups or project teams.
- 1 individual assignment
- 2 group assignments
- 80% attendance in teaching and 100% attendance in specific learning activities according to the teaching plan
| Form of assessment | Grading scale | Grouping | Duration of assessment | Support materials | Proportion | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Portfolio examination | Passed - not passed | Individual | 100 |