Introduction to Game Design

  • 4.7
Approx. 6 hours to complete

Course Summary

Learn how to create engaging and fun games that users will love with this Game Design course. Explore the principles and techniques used by professional game designers to create successful games.

Key Learning Points

  • Understand the key principles of game design and apply them to your own projects
  • Create engaging and immersive game worlds that keep users coming back
  • Learn how to use game design tools and software to create high-quality games

Job Positions & Salaries of people who have taken this course might have

    • USA: $72,000
    • India: ₹6,00,000
    • Spain: €34,000
    • USA: $72,000
    • India: ₹6,00,000
    • Spain: €34,000

    • USA: $82,000
    • India: ₹8,00,000
    • Spain: €38,000
    • USA: $72,000
    • India: ₹6,00,000
    • Spain: €34,000

    • USA: $82,000
    • India: ₹8,00,000
    • Spain: €38,000

    • USA: $62,000
    • India: ₹5,00,000
    • Spain: €30,000

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Create a game design document that outlines the key features and mechanics of a game
  • Understand the process of designing and iterating on a game to create an engaging user experience
  • Develop a portfolio of game projects to showcase your skills to potential employers

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • Basic understanding of programming and game development concepts
  • Access to game design software and tools

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced

Similar Courses

  • Video Game Design and Development
  • Introduction to Game Development
  • Game Design: Art and Concepts

Related Education Paths


Related Books

Description

Welcome! This course is an introduction to the primary concepts of gaming, and an exploration of how these basic concepts affect the way gamers interact with our games. In this course you will understand what defines a “game” and the mechanics and rules behind different types of games. Through four linked assignments you'll learn ways to create and describe a game concept, and specifically what makes a compelling game. This course focuses on the conceptual underpinnings of games, and all assignments can be completed with a pencil and paper – no previous programming knowledge is required.

Outline

  • Week 1: The Simplest Games
  • Welcome!
  • Elements of Gaming
  • The Game Design Document
  • Feedback
  • Making a Simple Game and Brainstorming
  • Week 1 Homework
  • About this Course
  • Instructor Presence and Staff Support
  • Academic Integrity
  • Week 2: Rules and Discovery
  • Introduction to Rules
  • Balance
  • What are rules?
  • Breaking the Rules
  • Learning the Rules
  • Week 2 Homework
  • Week 3: Tell a Story
  • Introduction to Story
  • Story Purpose
  • Who's In Charge of Your Game Story?
  • Writer-Driven
  • Writer-Led
  • Player-Led
  • Roleplaying & Character Motivation
  • Explaining & Imagining
  • Week 3 Homework
  • Week 4: The Friend and the Enemy
  • Introduction to Characters
  • Characters in Gaming
  • Types of Characters
  • Multiplayer Rules and Balance
  • Bonus Interview: Adam Spragg, Designer of Hidden in Plain Sight
  • Week 4 Homework
  • Course Credits

Summary of User Reviews

Learn game design online with Coursera. This course is highly recommended by users who found it valuable and engaging. Many users appreciated the practical approach and the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors. Overall, this course has received great reviews from students who are interested in game design and want to learn the fundamentals of game design theory and practice.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The practical approach and the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors.

Pros from User Reviews

  • Great practical experience with designing games
  • Engaging course material and instructors
  • Flexible schedule and easy to follow
  • Opportunity to receive feedback on game designs

Cons from User Reviews

  • Some students found the course too basic
  • Lack of hands-on experience with game engines
  • Limited interaction with other students and instructors
  • The course may not be suitable for advanced game designers
  • The course can be time-consuming
English
Available now
Approx. 6 hours to complete
Fran Krause
California Institute of the Arts
Coursera

Instructor

Fran Krause

  • 4.7 Raiting
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