Course Description
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Course Name
Computer Games
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Host University
University of Cape Town
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Location
Cape Town, South Africa
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Area of Study
Computer Science
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Language Level
Taught In English
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Prerequisites
Course entry requirements: CSC2001F, MAM1000W or equivalent.
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Course Level Recommendations
Lower
ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.
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Host University Units
24 -
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits4
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Recommended U.S. Quarter Units8
Hours & Credits
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Overview
This course introduces high-level game programming concepts and practical game construction. By the end of the course, students will be able to design and implement simple 2D games. The course begins with a basic introduction to games and game genres for students unfamiliar with gaming, before exploring the game development process. Appropriate terminology, methods, and tools for computer game development are introduced. Fundamentals algorithms for 2D game development and implementation are covered, including pathfinding algorithms suited to tile-based games. Text-based games are also briefly explored using Inform7. This is a practical course where students design and implement games using GameMaker for simple prototyping, beforeswitching to a Java-based game engine which students can extend. The final deliverable is a fully functional 2D game which implements many of the techniques explored in lectures.DP requirements: Minimum of 45% aggregate in practical work, minimum of 50% in practical test and minimum of 40% in theory tests.Assessment: Tests count for 16.7%; practicals, practical test and projects count 33.3%; one 3-hour paper written in November counts 50%. Subminima: 45%on weighted average of theory tests and examination.
Course Disclaimer
Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.