Week Two - Class Four

Today we reviewed researching, objectives, editing & refining, formal elements, and prototyping. First we reviewed the player and engaging the player in the game. We then went over objectives and ones that are actually in games so the students could relate to the topic more. Many of the students objectives are still story driven or mini-objectives. I am trying to encourage an overall objective based on game mechanics.

Then the students were given some time to research their game mechanic against what is already out there. This is important because they need to know what is out there, how they are different or the same, and why. I also had the students write their main objective on the board and had all of the students in the class write what games that come to mind when they hear the objective.

Then I explained some more factors for their ideas to think about: technical feasibility, marketability, artistic, scope, and business/cost. I also redefined some of the questions they need to be able to answer in their concept and pitch.

Prototyping! SIMPLE, SIMPLE, SIMPLE! We discussed core gameplay mechanics and how important it is to prototype this idea and how important iteration is. I also encouraged the students to read:
•http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2007/11/opinion_20_underused_game_mech.php. This goes over underused mechanics that is a fresh change from hearing about what is overused.