Game DesignLaajuus (5 cr)
Code: 4A00HB62
Credits
5 op
Objectives
This course provides students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to design and present their own small-scale game. It’s a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of game design.
This course serves as an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Game Design. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have gained the knowledge and skills to:
Develop and Present Unique Game Concepts:
• conceptualize
• develop
• present unique game ideas
• demonstrating creativity and originality in game design.
• Gain understanding of various game mechanics and their applications, showcasing the ability to design engaging and balanced gameplay
Explore Game Monetization Strategies:
• Explore and understand different monetization strategies, illustrating knowledge of how to sustainably publish and profit from games.
Analyze and Critique Game Design:
• Develop the ability to critically analyze and provide constructive feedback on game designs, fostering a deeper understanding of what makes games engaging.
Content
Basics of Game Design:
• Introduction to game design and its history
• Core principles and player psychology
Different Game Mechanics:
• Gameplay elements like exploration
• Combat, and progression systems
• Social mechanics and randomness in games.
Game Concept Presentation:
Ideation and documentation of game ideas, prototyping and effective pitching skills.
Monetization with Game Design:
• Free-to-Play and premium models,
• Subscription-based services
• Data-driven design.
Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)
The student
• can design a simple board game with one unique mechanic
• can identify a basic game mechanics
Assessment criteria, good (3-4)
The student
• is able to identify and discuss a range of game mechanics in PC/Console games
Assessment criteria, excellent (5)
The student
• can pitch a game concept
• can take existing game and discuss changes to design for monetisation and publishing
Enrolment period
09.06.2025 - 14.09.2025
Timing
01.08.2025 - 31.12.2025
Credits
5 op
Mode of delivery
Contact teaching
Unit
Business Information Systems
Campus
TAMK Main Campus
Teaching languages
- English
Degree programmes
- Degree Programme in Business Information Systems
- Bachelor's Degree Programme in Media and Arts
Teachers
- Pasi Pekkanen
- Gareth Noyce
Person in charge
Pasi Pekkanen
Groups
-
24MEDIAARTDegree Programme in Media and Arts
-
24TIKOGAME
Objectives (course unit)
This course provides students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to design and present their own small-scale game. It’s a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of game design.
This course serves as an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Game Design. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have gained the knowledge and skills to:
Develop and Present Unique Game Concepts:
• conceptualize
• develop
• present unique game ideas
• demonstrating creativity and originality in game design.
• Gain understanding of various game mechanics and their applications, showcasing the ability to design engaging and balanced gameplay
Explore Game Monetization Strategies:
• Explore and understand different monetization strategies, illustrating knowledge of how to sustainably publish and profit from games.
Analyze and Critique Game Design:
• Develop the ability to critically analyze and provide constructive feedback on game designs, fostering a deeper understanding of what makes games engaging.
Content (course unit)
Basics of Game Design:
• Introduction to game design and its history
• Core principles and player psychology
Different Game Mechanics:
• Gameplay elements like exploration
• Combat, and progression systems
• Social mechanics and randomness in games.
Game Concept Presentation:
Ideation and documentation of game ideas, prototyping and effective pitching skills.
Monetization with Game Design:
• Free-to-Play and premium models,
• Subscription-based services
• Data-driven design.
Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)
The student
• can design a simple board game with one unique mechanic
• can identify a basic game mechanics
Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)
The student
• is able to identify and discuss a range of game mechanics in PC/Console games
Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)
The student
• can pitch a game concept
• can take existing game and discuss changes to design for monetisation and publishing
Assessment scale
0-5