4 Video Game Design Foundations
STEM
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is the foun-
dation on which our 21st century society builds and maintains economic
growth. This curriculum integrates the rigor and relevance of STEM into fun
and exciting classroom lessons. Taking rigor from each of the core areas of
study and placing it in the context of video game design allows students to
recognize the relevance of study. Students will gain experience in the skills
needed for most of the new jobs projected over the next two decades.
Through application and integration of all core areas of language arts,
science, mathematics, and social sciences, students become engaged in
learning through doing. Application and synthesis levels of learning are
maintained for a truly unique student experience. Through this meaningful
engagement in learning, students become better in all core subject areas and
the foundations of technology as presented in this text.
Textbook
The textbook provides the theory of video game design. It aligns with the
International Game Developers Association (IGDA) recommended educa-
tional framework. Beginning with discussions on teamwork, the student
learns about gaming, computerized gaming, and the evolution of gaming.
Students then learn about artistic aspects of perspective, design, and anima-
tion. The technical aspects of collision theory and programming logic are
discussed, followed by explanations of the hardware of video games. The text
concludes with explanations of the global economy and supply chains.
Each chapter begins with an introduction and a list of learning objectives.
Keep these objectives in mind as you read the text. Each chapter concludes
with chapter review questions and cross-curricular STEM activities.
Software Design Guide
The available software design guide (SDG) provides the hands-on
application of the theory presented in the textbook. The SDG should be
considered an integral part of the curriculum. It is where students take the
theory learned in the textbook and use that knowledge to build video games.
Working in simulated design teams, students will experience all aspects
of video game design, from the planning stages, through the design and
programming, and concluding with a capstone project.
Each chapter in the SDG is correlated to the textbook chapter. There are
several activities for each chapter. Many of the activities are scripted game
builds. These types of activities conclude with review questions. The last
chapter in the SDG is a capstone project that requires you to apply all of the
knowledge you acquired in the textbook and SDG.