Course Number:
CSCI 3550
Approved Starting Semester:
Fall 2026
Course Title:
Foundations of Game Development
Course Description (Bulletin Description):
This course provides students with foundational knowledge of game development principles, history, design theory, and implementation techniques. Topics include the game development lifecycle, core mechanics, and industry-standard tools. Students create 2D games through hands-on projects while learning programming patterns specific to the interactive entertainment industry. The course emphasizes both technical skills and creative problem-solving in game design.
Prerequisite:
CSCI 2000 or CSCI 1010
Co-requisite:
None
Pre/Co-requisite::
None
Dual-Listed:
None
Course Objectives (Course-level Student Learning Outcomes):
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Explain the historical and cultural significance of games. Identify and apply fundamental game design concepts. Analyze and evaluate fundamental game design principles, including mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics. Design and implement core game systems, including player input, collision detection, and game state management. Develop complete 2D games using industry-standard game engines and programming frameworks.
Topics Covered (In Outline/Calendar):
History of video games and game genres Introduction to game engines Game development lifecycle and production pipeline Core game mechanics and system design 2D graphics rendering and sprite management Game physics and collision detection Input handling and player controls Game state management and scene transitions User interface design for games
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions. (SLO1)
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the programβs discipline. (SLO2)
Course Coordinator:
Dr. Alice Lin
Instructor-in-charge:
Dr. Alice Lin
Previous Professors:
Dr. James Church, Dr. Alice Lin
Technologies / Skills:
Unity C# Game Programming
Textbook(s):
Fall 2026
Title: Hands-On Unity Game Development
Edition: 4TH
Author: BORROMEO
Publisher: PACKT
ISBN: 978-1-83508-571-4
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