DIGITAL GAME DESIGN
Bachelor	TR-NQF-HE: Level 6	QF-EHEA: First Cycle	EQF-LLL: Level 6

Course Introduction and Application Information

Course Code	Course Name	Semester	Theoretical	Practical	Credit	ECTS
GAD5201	Fundamentals of Game Design	Spring	3	0	3	8

This catalog is for information purposes. Course status is determined by the relevant department at the beginning of semester.

Basic information

Language of instruction:	English
Type of course:	Non-Departmental Elective
Course Level:	Bachelor’s Degree (First Cycle)
Mode of Delivery:	Face to face
Course Coordinator :	Assoc. Prof. GÜVEN ÇATAK
Course Lecturer(s):	Assoc. Prof. GÜVEN ÇATAK
Course Objectives:	This module introduces students to the conceptual and practical fundamentals of games, with a specific focus on game design, as well as analyzing. Some of the core topics covered include the formal possibilities of games and different approaches within game design.

Learning Outcomes

The students who have succeeded in this course;
1- Use appropriate terminology to describe and analyze games and game design.
2- Explain, understand, and discuss the fundamental concepts and structures of games and gameplay.
3- Successfully propose game ideas and develop prototypes.
4- Conduct game analysis suited to the target audience and perform market analysis.
5- Create design presentations that accompany game design projects and use them in practical applications.

Course Content

Methodological and practical aspects of game design, such as teamwork, playtesting, iteration, prototyping, and documentation, are introduced through projects. These concepts and methods provide a foundation for future modules in digital game design and development. Teaching Methods: Lecture, Group Work, Individual Studies, Guest Speakers, Readings, Discussions, Projects

Weekly Detailed Course Contents

Week	Subject	Related Preparation
1)	Intro
2)	What is game design	Written assignment number 1
3)	Game Structures	Written assignment number 2
4)	Target Audience and Analysis	Written assignment number 3
5)	Core loop and complexity	Written assignment number 4
6)	Experience & Psychology	Written assignment number 5
7)	Midterm Exam
8)	Game Flow	Written assignment number 6
9)	Randomization, Level design & Balance	Written Assignment number 7
10)	Game Production
11)	Prototype & Assesment	Student Presentations
12)	Game Economy	Written assignment number 8
13)	First time user experience and analytics
14)	Final Presentations	Final Presentation Prep

Sources

Course Notes / Textbooks:	The module resources will be provided by the instructor.
References:	Daniels, J. T. (2022) Make Your Own Board Game: Designing, Building, and Playing an Original Tabletop Game. Storey Publishing, LLC. Schell, J. (2019) The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses, Third Edition. A K Peters / CRC Press. Solis, D. (2023) Graphic Design for Board Games 1st Edition. CRC Press. Calleja, G. (2022) Unboxed: Board Game Experience and Design. The MIT Press.

Evaluation System

Semester Requirements	Number of Activities	Level of Contribution
Attendance	1	% 10
Field Work	8	% 10
Preliminary Jury	1	% 30
Final	1	% 50
Total		% 100
PERCENTAGE OF SEMESTER WORK		% 50
PERCENTAGE OF FINAL WORK		% 50
Total		% 100

ECTS / Workload Table

Activities	Number of Activities	Duration (Hours)	Workload
Course Hours	14	3	42
Application	8	3	24
Study Hours Out of Class	13	6	78
Presentations / Seminar	1	3	3
Homework Assignments	7	3	21
Midterms	1	3	3
Paper Submission	8	4	32
Final	1	3	3
Total Workload			206

Contribution of Learning Outcomes to Programme Outcomes

No Effect	1 Lowest	2 Low	3 Average	4 High	5 Highest

	Program Outcomes	Level of Contribution
1)	Comprehend the conceptual importance of the game in the field of communication, ability to implement the player centered application to provide design.
2)	Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information and ideas from various perspectives.
3)	Analyze the key elements that make up specific game genres, forms of interactions, mode of narratives and understand how they are employed effectively to create a successful game.
4)	Understand game design theories and methods as well as implement them during game development; to make enjoyable, attractive, instructional and immersive according to the target audience.
5)	Understand the technology and computational principles involved in developing games and master the use of game engines.
6)	Understand the process of creation and use of 2D and 3D assets and animation for video games.
7)	Understand and master the theories and methodologies of understanding and measuring player experience and utilize them during game development process.
8)	Comprehend and master how ideas, concepts and topics are conveyed via games followed by the utilization of these aspects during the development process.
9)	Manage the game design and development process employing complete documentation; following the full game production pipeline via documentation.
10)	Understand and employ the structure and work modes of game development teams; comprehend the responsibilities of team members and collaborations between them while utilizing this knowledge in practice.
11)	Understand the process of game publishing within industry standards besides development and utilize this knowledge practice.
12)	Pitching a video game to developers, publishers, and players; mastering the art of effectively communicating and marketing the features and commercial potential of new ideas, concepts or games.