Introduction to Game Design (Coursera)

Introduction to Game Design Coursera Online Course Overview

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 the Introduction to Game Design online 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.

Course Syllabus

WEEK 1 – The Simplest Games

This week we start at the beginning: what are the principles of very simple games, like Hangman and tic-tac-toe? How do these games work? Why do people play them? What are the elements that define games and the gaming experience? And finally, what do games have in common with each other, and what sets them apart? In addition to covering the basics and ground rules for this course, we’ll conclude this week with a very simple, low-tech assignment: create a game on a single sheet of paper.

WEEK 2 – Rules and Discovery

How does a player learn the mechanics of her game? How do they learn anything about your game? This week we will talk about the rules that define gameplay, and how those rules are communicated to your players. We also discuss the way rules are bent and broken by players.

WEEK 3 – Tell a Story

How does narrative drive a player to start playing your game? Or to finish it? This week we’ll look at some of the ways you can make your game more compelling with story, and discuss some of the stories of the way can drive gameplay forward, or enable a player to make their own way through it.

WEEK 4 – The Friend and the Enemy

What purpose does an enemy serve in a game? What effect does a second player have on two-player games? Can a game work without an adversary or a final goal? We’ll address all of those questions in this last week of the class, and work towards finalizing your board game project with characters.

Course Instructor

• Fran Krause