Computer Games Theory and Practice

Computer games have now exceeded Hollywood movies in global sales. Computer games are now recognized as important cultural and artistic products. This class will look at how computer games are made, why they are made, and how students from all disciplines can interpret and respond to them. Key words include: economics, violence, politics, military, simulation, narrative, and subjectivity. We will not just theorize about games. We will play them! Each student will choose a computer game and play it in depth, relate the experience to game theory and cultural theory, and report back to the class. Students will be introduced to 3D modeling, animation, and game design using 3D GameStudio. Students will produce a final project in their medium of choice.

Nothing too demanding!

Just upload a representative image and a brief description of your project BEFORE your presentation.

Thanks all.

Monday, December 4 - 3D GameStudio Tutorials and/or work on final projects. Attendance in class is optional. But you must have finished the tutorials!

Wednesday, December 6 - I will be checking that you have completed the tutorials. Most of you have done an excellent job from what I've seen! Then, we'll finally get to watch the Will Wright presentation. Attendance is required.

Monday, December 11 - Final Project presentations

Wednesday, December 13 - Final Project presentations

Students are expected to attend on both presentation days.

I may be in a little late. Please carry on with the GameStudio tutorials, and if you've finished those work on your final projects.

When I get in we'll watch the Will Wright presentation on the future of game design. You won't want to miss this - he's a gaming god, or at least the god of god games.

This is the final 3dgs tutorial. It involves importing a Quake .md2 model in MED and customizing for use in your game.

Download PDF

All of the script files and required images have been updated on your computers. This should avoid some of the run-time errors you've been getting.

When you open your game, go to the Project Manager and select the update tab. Select Force Updates and then OK to update the listed file.

Revised Tutorial #4

Revised Tutorial #5

Download the Bad Guy

Tutorial 1

Tutorial 2

Tutorial 3

Tutorial 4

Anyone working with 3D GameStudio for their final projects should join the user forum and start searching for answers to any questions.

http://www.coniserver.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php