Are you ready to develop your understanding of computers from the inside out? In this course, you will discover hardware and software options for a computer, how computers work together to create networks, and how the internet works. You will explore the major types of software categories you will need to know in most professional spaces including word processing, spreadsheets, and database information. You will also develop skills like programming and app building before putting everything together in a final project where you’ll build an e-book. Let’s get started!

Unit 1: The Basics: Understanding Computer Hardware

We interact with dozens of computers every day, whether we realize it or not. From smartphones and ovens to grocery store kiosks, computers are all around us. Their purpose is to process information in a meaningful way, and it takes quite a lot of hardware to get the job done! We will explore the basics of computer hardware, peripherals, maintenance, and troubleshooting. At the end, get ready to apply your knowledge to a common hardware problem and solve it!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compare and contrast types of computers and their purposes

• Identify and define the components of the von Neumann architecture model

• Describe on-board and add-on components of a computer

• Describe the purpose of peripherals and how to connect them to a computer

• Apply a common troubleshooting methodology for hardware problems

Unit 2: Data and Storage

Data is not just a technical computing term anymore—it affects almost everyone in one way or another. From the phones we use to the groceries we buy, data is being generated at unprecedented levels. All of that data needs to have a home, which is where secondary storage comes in. Get ready to learn about hot topics involving data and storage devices—and how they affect you!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the difference between data and information

• Discuss how data mining and data analysts are connected

• Convert between decimal and binary values

• Distinguish which data type should be used to store particular pieces of data

• Compare and contrast different methods of storage

Unit 3: Systems and Software 101

If hardware is the body of the computer, then software is its mind. Software does the thinking for the computer in a variety of ways. It allows users to interact with the hardware and provides tools for maintaining it. Application software enables users to be productive and entertain themselves. The future of software development is exciting, futuristic, and just brimming with cool opportunities for new programmers. Software is a broad topic, so get ready to learn!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the main operating systems in use today

• Explain the features of an operating system

• Give examples for why files and file management systems help with organization

• Use various application software programs to accomplish tasks

• Configure your Chrome browser and Gmail account

• Contrast the types of software delivery models and licensing options

Unit 4: Networking Fundamentals

The networking world is fast-paced and innovative. The internet can seem mysterious, but behind it are wires, cables, and satellites that carry data to and from computers. Different kinds of network hardware and software are used to enable this communication, and certain rules must be followed. Get ready to dive into the exciting world of the internet and learn just how simple yet complex it can be.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Analyze the benefits and risks of using a network

• Identify various types of networks and explain their purposes

• Describe the four major network topologies and name the types of internet service providers

• Explain the packet switching process

• Define and explain the functions of different pieces of network hardware

• Discuss network security issues and how to troubleshoot them

Unit 5: Word Processing

The business and academic worlds make heavy use of word processing software. Over 25 million people worldwide[1] use Google Docs, making it one of the most popular word processing applications. Not only does Google Docs provide basic functionality for creating and editing documents, it also has some cool collaboration features. Get ready to learn the ins and outs of Google Docs and how you can use it to enhance your writing.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the basic terminology of word processing software

• Use word processing features for sharing and collaborating on documents

• Create and format documents using Google Docs

• Create professional documents using Google Docs

Unit 6: Spreadsheets and Databases

All of the data being generated daily in the world needs a place to live. Enter spreadsheets and databases. These kinds of software can help organize, retrieve, manipulate, backup, and export data in various ways. From the simplest spreadsheet to the most complex database, data storage technology is vital to the proper functioning of many societies. So get ready to learn what spreadsheets and databases are capable of by following along in Google Sheets and Airtable.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Create and format a spreadsheet

• Apply spreadsheet formulas and functions

• Analyze data through filters, sorting, and conditional formatting

• Demonstrate data visually by creating and modifying charts

• Describe database concepts and types

• Create a basic database and input data using a form

Unit 7: The World of IT Apps

From business communication applications and accounting software to educational learning management systems and personal smartphone apps, the world of IT apps seemingly knows no bounds! We will discover the uses of various applications, extend our file management skills, explore the browser, improve our online search strategies, and learn where to find tech help if we need it.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe and use software for personal and business tasks

• Develop file management techniques

• Demonstrate proficiency using a browser

• Configure a web browser using advanced settings

• Assess the validity of online sources

• Use search engines and search tools effectively

Unit 8: Programming Pro Tips

Programming is currently one of the hottest industries. Even careers that are not traditionally thought of as technical now require a basic level of programming knowledge. In this unit, you will walk through the basics of coding, beginning with the software development life cycle, and then move on to understanding how various programming languages help to solve problems. You will explore the world of algorithms, get exposure to the basic constructs of most programming languages, and even develop your own mobile app. Get ready for a jam-packed, fun-filled unit!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compare and contrast programming language categories

• Define and recognize programming control constructs

• Describe basic programming building blocks and concepts

• Create a basic mobile app

Now that you know the basic workings of a computer, it’s time to put the computer to work! In this course, you will explore some of the basics of graphic design, web development languages, and coding. You will also learn about team building, communication and presentation software, and becoming a digital citizen, giving perspective on how to collaborate with others as you transition from school to the workplace. Lastly, you will uncover potential cyber threats and how to protect your own devices through features and behavior change before putting everything together in a culminating project: designing a website in Weebly. Let’s get to work!

Unit 1: Web Design

Websites are very important in our society. Businesses rely on them to market, advertise, share information, sell products, and communicate. But not all websites are created equal—some are attractive and professional while others are dull and unappealing. To make a visually appealing website or graphic, you’ll need some very important design skills. Let’s explore the basics of web design, web development, and graphic design.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and use basic principles of image design

• Create a professional-looking graphic using Google Docs

• Identify and describe web programming languages

• Use storyboards to plan a website design

• Use HTML and CSS to create web pages

• Build and publish an interactive website

Unit 2: Code Like a Pro!

What do stoplights, coffee makers, and video games all have in common? They are all controlled by code! In our modern world, code is the basis for all of the technology that we use. One of the most popular programming languages is Python, and we’ll learn how to use it to create a fun text-based adventure game. We’ll also make sure our game is good to go by testing and debugging it. Get ready for a Python adventure!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Solve problems and think critically

• Differentiate among Python data types and describe their uses

• Employ mathematical operators in programs

• Create a text-based adventure game in Python

• Use random numbers in a game

• Fix errors in a game by applying debugging strategies

Unit 3: Digitally Speaking

From messenger pigeons and papyrus to paper and emails, communication sure has come a long way! We now have a range of tools at our disposal for workplace and personal communication. Let’s learn how to speak digitally by exploring some of these tools. We will set up and use a Gmail account to investigate the world of email. And along the way, you’ll learn how to mind your netiquette!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the use of various kinds of collaboration software

• Use basic email functions to send messages

• Apply advanced email settings to collaborate with others

• Employ effective nonverbal and verbal communication skills

Unit 4: The Good and the Bad: Trends and Threats

With new innovations such as augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and smart devices, the future of tech has never looked so bright! But in this fast-paced, ever-changing industry, threats are equally fast-paced and evolve just as quickly. Cybercrime is rampant, and many individuals and organizations are falling prey to cyberattacks. We’ll discuss the specific threats that are out there, how to recognize them, and how to prevent them. Also, you’ll learn some best practice tips along the way to keep yourself safe.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Discuss how technology trends affect society

• Identify and describe security threats

• Explain how different types of malware work

• Describe issues relating to internet safety

• Explain how to maintain digital privacy and security

Unit 5: Building Bridges

Relationships among different groups of people are important to a well-functioning business, whether it involves peer, employer–employee, or mentor–mentee relationships. Communicating, collaborating, and resolving conflict well are vital elements of working in a business environment. IT tools can help these relationships function smoothly by meeting a variety of needs within the company.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the importance of various types of relationships within the business world

• Learn and apply strategies for resolving conflict in the workplace

• Demonstrate awareness of workplace safety

• Recognize the importance of leadership skills and teamwork

Unit 6: Become a Pro at Presentations

Presentation software is useful as a visual aid accompanying a speech or lecture. Google Slides is one of the most popular types of presentation software. It offers a variety of options to add multimedia content and collaborate with other people. We will learn basic features as well as more advanced aspects of Slides that can be used in a business context. Get ready to start creating your very own presentations!What will you learn in this unit?

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

• Explain the purpose of presentation software

• Put together basic presentations and add multimedia content

• Create and incorporate business-related elements in a presentation

• Apply appropriate slide transitions and animations to a presentation

• Demonstrate planning and time management skills

Unit 7: The Legal and Ethical Side of IT

With all the data we interact with online, there is a great need for privacy and security. But sometimes it’s unclear what we can and cannot do with data, and legal or ethical issues may surface. In this unit, we’ll look at intellectual property and how to protect it. We’ll also examine the issues of confidentiality, integrity, and availability with the goal of understanding how to behave securely, legally, and ethically.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Summarize confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns relating to data

• Describe potential threats to a company’s data, hardware, and software

• Discuss ethical and legal issues related to IT

• Investigate online sources to help you avoid plagiarism

• Summarize behavioral security concepts

Unit 8: Pathways to Expanding Your Involvement in IT

As you reach the end of this IT course, it is really only the beginning of your journey! Begin preparing for your future today by exploring your options for joining professional organizations, becoming involved in a computing club, giving back to your community, taking part in competitive programming, and becoming a lifelong learner. Being an IT professional is not simply about having the right skill set, as important as that is. You also need to be a good digital citizen and be conscious of how your actions affect the wider community.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify potential IT clubs and organizations to be involved in

• Discuss the benefits of competitive programming

• Read and understand technical material from magazines, journals, and books

• Be a responsible digital citizen who promotes security and advocates for fairness online

• Develop employability skills and knowledge

Does your love of video games motivate you to pursue a career in this field? Pursue your passion by learning about the principles of game design through the stages of development, iterative process, critiques, and game development tools. Put these new skills to work by designing your own game!

Unit 1: From King Tut to Mario: A History of Gaming

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to create your very own videogame? Well, this unit is going to equip you with everything you need to know in order to start that process! We’ll begin with some important history to help you get a feel for the games that have succeeded and those that were big-time flops. You’ll explore gaming’s “family tree” as you learn about the different generations of games. Finally, prepare to become an expert in the common characteristics that all game systems share, as well as what sets some apart from the competition.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the technological developments that contributed to the modern game industry

• Identify and evaluate the attributes of memorable (and forgettable!) games

• Research, compare, and categorize different game platforms and game hardware

• Strategically start planning your own video game

Unit 2: What’s in a Game

Video games can put you in the driver’s seat of a rally car or dispatch you to a mythical mountain to overcome a dark wizard and steal a dragon’s treasure. You may even have to mimic certain rhythms or dance steps to emerge victorious. No matter what type of video game is at the top of your most-played list, it is sure to make use of six critical elements, creating the unique blend of fun and challenge that keeps you coming back for more. Video games are developed using a variety of elements you will learn about that allow you to create a game that is unique and engaging. Learning these elements and how they combine to form a totally immersive and engaging video game will be your first introduction to becoming a successful game designer yourself!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define what a game is and name the six parts of a game

• Identify the source of “fun” in games and apply this knowledge to evaluate the success of a game’s design

• Give examples of how specific game elements work together to form specific kinds of player experiences that drive different kinds of fun

• Use what you have learned so far to continue developing your own video game

Unit 3: A Peek into the Game Industry

In big gaming studios, the processes and tasks that go into making a video game require different skills and are distributed among many people, each with specific expertise in design and development. A game design team can range in size from just one to hundreds of people. While you will be doing pretty much everything yourself in this course, understanding all the roles and tasks involved in creating a video game will serve as a useful roadmap when designing and building your own game and considering a career in this field. It will also help you find where your strengths will shine best in the real world! Which game piece will you be?

What will you learn in this unit?

• Distinguish the differences between large corporate design studios and independent studios

• Define the various roles on a game development team

• Explain the game design process, from concept to finished game

• List software commonly used in game development

Unit 4: Let’s Talk Shop about Game Design

Grab your tool belt and gear up to add a whole slew of brand-new gaming tools to your inventory! It’s time to get serious about what your game’s going to look like. What approach will you take? How often will you iterate? And what about your mechanics? There is so much to consider when designing a video game, and it all continues here in pre-production. Pretty soon, you’re going to have the know-how to answer those questions and many more. So, grab your toolbox, start your engine, and get ready…get set…here we GO!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Generate and critically examine different game ideas

• Differentiate between player-centric and designer-centric game design

• Exercise best practices during the iterative cycle of game design

• Define the details of key game mechanics such as movement, combat, inventory, and randomness

• Explain the various delivery methods for conveying story in games

Unit 5: Developing a Game Design Document

While getting your game mechanics down pat is the most important task of pre-production, creating a blueprint of your game development process is the most important deliverable. This blueprint, better known as a game design document (GDD), describes your video game from the ground up. It covers everything from the subject, style, nature, functionality, gameplay, mechanics, characters, plot, environment design, and user interface design to the narrative devices of your game. Yes, that’s a whole lot of information in one document! But the great thing about the GDD is that it is flexible. The document exists as your working catch-all for your plans and hopes for your game and, being a living document, can change as you adapt your design and your ideas during the design process. Learning how to create a meaningful and effective GDD, whether working alone or as part of a team, is essential to conveying a clear image of the intended game concept and final product.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the steps a game design team moves through from idea, to concept, to game design document

• Identify the main elements in a game design document and which team member would be best suited to help give input into that part of the GDD

• Create your own game design document

Unit 6: Game Visuals

Have you ever seen graphics in a video game that made you go “wow”? As you design and build your video game, you’ll have to master a lot of design elements and learn how to combine them to get your players to feel similarly wowed. Now, has a game’s menu system or heads-up display ever triggered the same reaction? Probably not, but that makes the design of those things no less important. There’s quite a lot of amazing design going on right in front of you that you may have never noticed! Often, when a designer does something right, it’s feels so natural and easy for the viewer that they don’t realize how much work the design is doing for them! In this unit, you’ll tackle many fundamental visual design concepts that you’ll take with you from the most epic character designs through the most modest menu buttons.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and utilize the elements and principles of design

• Evaluate the effectiveness of visual design

• Understand and apply color theory

• Use an imaging program to create pixel art and sprite sheets

Unit 7: The Business of Video Games

You might think game design is nothing but fun and games, but the business side of gaming is as serious and cutthroat as any other industry, with its own unique ethical and legal considerations. Ignore these issues at your peril! It’s certainly not much fun putting your blood, sweat, and tears into building a fabulous game only to get into hot water having accidentally infringed upon someone else’s intellectual property, or being called out by the media because your game has contributed to absenteeism or other negative behaviors! You’ll also have to develop special skills, such as social media marketing, to find new users and make your game go viral!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Make justifiable decisions following an ethical decision-making process

• Outline the legal matters that relate to game development and design

• Explain the various kinds of companies and organizations that operate in the game industry space

• Decide which form of marketing and producing works best for your situation

Unit 8: Let’s Make a Game

Time to roll up those sleeves and move into the development phase. Imagine you were the first person to ever create a video game, say a hunting game like the Nintendo classic Duck Hunt. You would have to write computer code to mimic the laws of gravity, momentum, elasticity, and who knows what else! To make things a lot quicker (and less expensive), developers build their games in existing game engines that have a lot of tools and data already built in. You are going to learn to work with Unity software, one of the most popular game engines, to create the basic elements of your game prototype.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Understand how video games apply physics concepts, such as friction, drag, and collision

• Explain the evolution of computer programming languages through their generations

• Describe the basic components and advantages of object-oriented programming

• Identify the different components in a simple script

• Program your first object in Unity

Now that you have the basics of game design down, let’s use your creativity to develop a game from start to finish! Develop your game creation skills and practice with the tools professionals use to launch your career options in the field of game design. The content of this course also applies to certification exams.

Unit 1: Get Artistic

At this point, you’ve created a game design document that outlines how you would like your game to work, what elements need to be built, and how you will market the game. Solid game mechanics are key to a game’s success, but a game’s artwork helps give the game life. Game art is a deep and complex topic, so let’s get started with the basics of creating art for your video game.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Set up a basic 3D world in Unity

• Create a seamless texture to use in your game prototype

• Explain how Disney’s 12 Principles of Animation can be used to create larger-than-life movement

• Import a character model into Unity and apply animations to it

Unit 2: Go 3D!

With the ever-increasing technological capabilities that we have to render, calculate, and display new 3D worlds, it’s not surprising that many of the most popular video games in recent years use 3D graphics. Entering a 3D game space adds an entire dimension to the game world and more precisely models how we perceive reality. Up to this point, most of the 3D assets you have used aside from a texture here and there were available from galleries associated with the programs you are using or were downloaded from other no-fee sites. You must be curious about how all those pieces get put together; there is no better time than now to try your hand at making your own 3D model!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Use essential box modeling skills to create hard-edge objects

• Apply UV mapping skills to 3D objects

• Create textures using procedural tools

• Explain how to create the illusion of 3D in a 2D environment

Unit 3: Enter Level One

Here’s the moment we’ve been waiting for! It’s time to create your first level. You already have a player that can walk and run around. What obstacles will you create in your scene to keep players challenged as they progress through the level? You may add houses, haystacks, or even a treacherous path at a cliff’s edge. The game is yours, and your options for time, environment, and character development are nearly unlimited! Just as every journey begins with a single step, many game designs begin with your first level.

What will you learn in this unit?

• List the different game-level metrics and explain how they impact level design

• Design a game environment using principles of design and level metrics that support gameplay

• Sculpt and apply texture to a terrain

• Create a location event that serves as a trigger zone in a game

Unit 4: Get Physical

Game mechanics are at the core of gameplay. They determine how simulated aspects of the game world will behave and control how the player can interact with the game state. With knowledge of the fundamental concepts of computer programming, you are ready to dig deeper into the subject of game programming and put some action into game design. But with every action, you can expect an equal and opposite reaction. What? Back to physics again? Deciding how things move and respond to collisions in your game is where you get to mold the flow and action of your gameplay.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain what it means to use an event-driven language in object-oriented programming

• Define various computer programming concepts and explain their uses

• Create a movement mechanic for a 3D game

• Apply physical forces to Rigidbody objects

Unit 5: Accept the Mission

Game rules are the fundamental building blocks that define and support higher-level game elements such as game mechanics and, ultimately, gameplay. Remember that you’ve already created some game rules in the last few units: a trigger zone, movement mechanics for your player and enemies, and a timer. Now you’ll take those a step further and work them into positive and negative outcomes of missions and campaigns throughout your game levels. Ultimately, you’ll learn how to use goal design to create a truly long-lasting and engaging play experience.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain how to create understandable and context-appropriate game rules

• Show how context-appropriate game rules are connected to game progression and cognitive flow

• Use goal design to create nested victories

• Build a GameManager class to track global, game-wide variables, such as lives and score

• Create collisions between player and enemies or objects

Unit 6: Immerse Your User

Have you ever played a game that just felt so immersive and alive that you were compelled to extend your stay in its fictional world? If so, it was likely due, in part, to good sound design and an intuitive user interface. A well-crafted soundscape can turn a good game into a great one. Learning the principles of how to create this emotive, immersive experience is a must for any game designer.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the basic tenets of GUI design

• Create menus in Unity using Canvas

• Generate, edit, and export sound effects for your games

• Enhance your gameplay by attaching sound effects to certain game events

Unit 7: Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3

Towards the end of a project like designing a game, your work gets closer and closer to being released into the big wide world. Your game’s quality will determine not only its success but your reputation as a game designer. What you definitely don’t want is to ship a buggy product that keeps breaking; that would be embarrassing! To avoid this, game developers extensively test their games before release. It’s a repetitive, oftentimes laborious, task, but it is also one of the most important steps in the professional game development process. You can be absolutely sure that all of your favorite computer games were rigorously tested. If you want to make some truly great games, you have to make sure every element of your game is working well by following through with all the quality assurance processes.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the iterative nature of the testing stage of software development

• Explain the difference between continuous dynamic and discrete event simulations

• Create a frame-by-frame animation sequence

• Use a simulation to create special effects in your game

Unit 8: The Future of Gaming

With the advent of smartphones, there has been unprecedented growth in the gaming industry. Look around; you’ll almost certainly see a few people playing games at any time of the day. Amazingly, this growth does not mean that gaming has reached its peak. With new technologies taking off, such as augmented reality that allows games to interact with the real world, there are exciting new horizons in store for gaming. Let’s prepare for the future and learn how our newfound Unity skills can be used to make an augmented reality experience.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe what components augmented reality relies on

• Create a game that uses augmented reality

• Identify features of a game that may pose accessibility challenges to players

• List reasons why a game reviewer might be biased towards certain types of games

Are you ready to enter this multi-billion-dollar industry and start applying your technical skills into a compelling package that will catch the eye of an employer? Beginning with conceptualization and the design process, you’ll develop your game’s story elements, narrative, plot, characters, and assets. Using game design software, you’ll bring your game to life by applying lighting, audio, visual effects, player choice options, AI, and consider the type of controls to use for your game. Build a world players can get immersed in.

Unit 1: Get Paid to Make Games

Are you one of the roughly two-thirds of Americans who play video games? The video game industry is a multi-billion dollar business with about 2.2 billion gamers worldwide, making it one of the fastest-growing markets. In fact, global video-game streaming is predicted to grow by 27 percent a year between 2018 and 2026. This means more jobs in programming, animation, art, and sound in video game design. Yes, it is more than possible to get paid to design and develop video games! Growth in the video game industry will continue to provide a significant source of employment across not only in the United States but the world. In this unit, you’ll explore the skills that lead to jobs in this exciting field, learn about top issues in the industry, and maybe even discover the best place for your talents.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Recognize the skills necessary for a career in the video game industry

• Explain organizational structures in game design

• Apply common legal issues to game design

• Summarize global game market dynamics and regulations

Unit 2: Give Yourself Some Wow Factor

By now you are ready to enter the multibillion-dollar game design industry, one of the biggest sectors in the entertainment world. You know the difference between AAA studios, small indie companies, and solo indie developers. You probably have an idea about which game design job best suits you. It’s time to translate your technical skills into a compelling package that will catch the eye of an employer—a top-notch presentation including a portfolio that will showcase your skills. We’ll also explore the benefits of work-based learning and student organizations and, finally, take a peek at the policies and procedures that protect us and the workplace. What are you waiting for? Let’s get a job!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the components of a professional presentation

• Explain the advantages of membership in a student organization

• Discuss the benefits of a work-based learning experience

• Exhibit and apply positive work behaviors

• Compare and contrast workplace policies and procedures

Unit 3: Let's Get to Work

If you’ve ever talked with game designers or game developers, you’ve probably heard that nothing ever goes as planned. Between looming deadlines, production snags, long hours, and top management priorities, unforeseen issues can pop up anytime in the development process. Experienced game designers know the industry’s character and that it can test even the most seasoned professionals—those who create games that not only look good, they play good too. Fortunately, there are processes and tools in place to streamline game development. These will become second nature to you as you reach for them when you have your next great idea.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the stages of the design process

• Describe the steps in game conceptualization

• Apply tools used in game design

• Organize the elements of a game design document

Unit 4: Start Your Narrative Journey!

Since the beginning of the 21st century, technological advances have allowed more complex video games to be developed that attract a very large customer base. It’s not unusual for modern games to have as much cinematic content, if not more, than most movies, for example. And there is likely more dialog than you’ll find in a book and more original music than in an album—all while giving the player the ultimate choice of how the story turns out. Compared to other entertainment media, video games offer an original way of telling stories since they are based on the interaction of the player with the game. Now that you know the steps needed to physically produce your game, it’s time to learn how to create the story for your game. You have seen how important documentation is to game development. In this unit, you’ll discover how a game’s story can add depth and immersion to your game.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe story elements, plot, game flow, and game function

• Explain how to develop and present a written storyline or narrative

• Create a game design document for a runner game

• Utilize game layout charts to explain game flow

Unit 5: Consider Your Controls

Imagine trying to play a VR game with a controller or a game like Brothers or Guitar Hero on a touch screen—a lot of the experience is lost in translation. Your game’s control method is important to consider while developing your story. The earlier into the ideation stage that you choose a control scheme, the better you’ll be able to integrate the story into that scheme. That’s not to say you can’t port a game to multiple systems and controller types and still have it be a success, but more often than not, you lose the original experience and intent. Here we’ll take a look at different types of game controllers and what kinds of game they best suit. We’ll also take a look at which control methods are supported in Unity. (Hint: There are a lot of them!)

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and characterize the types of game controllers currently in use

• Formulate connections to and between user experience and input methods

• Distinguish the various levels of VR immersion

• Explain issues and approaches to accessibility issues in game controllers

• Predict issues and describe concerns when porting from one platform to another

Unit 6: So Many Games, So Little Time

Many games have been created over the years. What started as clear-cut arcade-style games like platformers and top-down shooters has evolved into genre-busting combinations of game types, modes, and mechanics. These games have had effects on society, popular culture, and the players themselves. Knowing the types of games and genres that have made an impact in the industry helps you make decisions about what type of games you want to create.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define the various game genres and subgenres

• Describe how genre-blending occurs

• Summarize the effects of games on society and the player, including cognitive behavior

• Create reactive events and purposeful designs in Unity

Unit 7: Assets and Effects

We’ve got the basics down now, so let’s get into gameplay! Next, we will discuss the various ways the objects in our game can help or frustrate our player and why both are important. Many games do a good job throwing a lot of mechanics and obstacles at the player, but the best games do so with intent and structure, rewarding the player for successes and challenging the player when appropriate. We will also discuss visual elements like cameras, lighting, audio, and user interface elements.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Build in-game objects with proper foresight and intent for gameplay implications

• Apply visual and audio effects to Unity projects

• Understand how objects can maintain player interest and balance challenge

• Describe common design elements used in game design

Unit 8: Dig into the Playbook!

You’ve got some planning and pre-production under your belt. You’re storyboarding and the ideas are flying. But before we jump too deep into programming, let’s take a look at player-centric design. Similar to purposeful design, it is the concept of designing levels based on how the player is playing the game. This includes navigation aids, artificial intelligence, randomness, and dynamic balancing. You’ll also learn about optimal game flow and how to keep players coming back for more—and how to level up!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Evaluate the impact of randomness in game design

• Understand the process of creating and designing player choice

• Describe the use of artificial intelligence challenges in game design

• Identify techniques used in the industry to help the player to navigate

• Create a new level in Unity

You’ve already done the groundwork, and now it’s time to level up and launch! In Game Design 2b, you’ll take your runner game to new heights and enter the land of fire and ice using the cool tools that Unity has to offer! Get ready to build atmospheric landscapes, mountain runs, stair builds, and implement obstacles to keep your relic safe! Then, your real-world game begins: test and evaluate your game and prepare for a market launch! All of the moving parts of the game development process come together in this course, so you can unleash your game into the world!

Unit 1: Taking Control

It’s time to turn our basic sphere mesh into a fully animated humanoid model and learn all of the fun new mechanics that come along with it. We will also take a look at some of the other standard game modes and templates that Unity has to offer. These starting templates are the backbone of many of today’s popular games. Tired of the boring color-block meshes and ready to move onto something a bit more visually impressive? We will create new levels with 3D assets and materials that bring a sense of realism to our game. First, we’ll install the Unity Standard Assets pack and take a look at the different game controllers that we have access to and can customize for our games. We’ll then go all-in on the third person game controller and revisit some of the assets we created in the previous course.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and implement Unity standardized templates and assets

• Implement humanoid character controllers

• Test out non-humanoid controllers and AI functions

• Explain how game controllers can be used to add to and enhance different game genres

Unit 2: Characters in Games

Now that we’ve gone over game controllers, let’s take a look at exactly who we’ll be controlling. We’ll begin by exploring the various archetypes in literature and how they relate to game design. Then we’ll choose an archetype to mold our character after and, with that information, choose an avatar to represent the main protagonist. You’ll learn how to implement this new avatar in Unity and integrate the character’s information and backstory into a character sheet that we’ll be adding to our Game Design Document.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and describe common archetypes in literature

• Define archetypes and stereotypes common in video games

• Implement new character models from the Unity Marketplace and Adobe Mixamo into existing Unity character controllers

• Develop a backstory and create character sheets for our main protagonist and antagonist

Unit 3: Introduction to Level Design

How do you create a level that engages the player? Implementing thoughtful level design that creates complex and interesting obstacles is possible even for beginners. A variety of inventory systems used in different game genres can enhance gameplay, as do the various programming concepts needed to create these inventory systems. Specifically, we’ll learn the pros and cons of using various data storage methods like arrays, lists, and hashtables to add interest to our level. Then, we’ll return to our project and create a glowing orb for our player to collect and visually equip it to the character.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe how level design contributes to player interaction and enhances player actions

• Explain industry-standard methods used to create and manage inventory systems and how these systems can affect gameplay

• Program using various data storage methods within C# including arrays, lists, and hashtables

• Implement a visual inventory and item collection system within your game project

Unit 4: Extending Unity

We’ve learned the basics of the tools built into Unity, but many studios rely on advanced external tools to create their games. So how do we extend the functionality of Unity so we can harness these same powerful features? Step inside and learn tools of the trade like ProBuilder, used to create and edit 3D models within the Unity Editor. Turn regular C# code into a visual scripting flow machine using Bolt. Explore third-party extensions and templates, as well as official documentation, to help us along our programming journey. We’ll also take a look at software engineering principles and how they relate to games and game design as a process.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe how packages are allocated within Unity and how to enable/disable them within an existing project

• Install and use ProBuilder to create and edit 3D models for use within your scene

• Install and use Bolt to create a script and explain how visual scripting works as an alternative to C#

• Explain the principles of game design and how official and unofficial documentation is used in game development

Unit 5: Finishing Touches

Want to really make your game stand out? Learn how to use some of the most powerful tools in Unity to create unique landscape features—like mountains, hills, and plateaus—then texture them to match your game theme. We’ll create a dynamic lava system using custom particle systems and math-based script systems. Once our lava looks menacing enough, we’ll learn how to reset the stage if the player accidentally touches it. We’ll also learn about abilities. We’ll create a new pickup that allows us to cast an icy projectile at our foes, and then add an animation so our player character can celebrate their newfound powers!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Create aesthetically pleasing and diverse environments using textures, terrains, 3D models, and particle systems

• Program and design pickup objects and physics-based projectiles

• Describe class constructors and scripted inheritance, and use scripting and object-oriented programming to add new abilities and animations to your game

• Edit particle systems to create unique new effects to use in your game projects

Unit 6: Enemies, Interfaces, and Testing

It’s time to meet your match! Get ready to face off with your enemy. Here, we’ll set our character and enemy interactions and fine-tune our player’s abilities. We’ll learn about user interface elements and how they affect gameplay and relay information to the player. We’ll look at a few iconic title screens from gaming’s history and analyze what makes them great before moving on to create our very own. Finally, we’ll learn the ins and outs of alpha testing and how to document bugs and code during these stages. Let’s roll!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Create dynamic interactions between characters, enemies, and projectiles

• Design functional user interfaces and differentiate between different types of UI elements including diegetic, non-diegetic, spatial, and meta elements

• Explain how a start screen can set the tone of a game and even teach a player before they begin playing

• Document alpha testing tickets and understand the important elements of proper alpha testing

Unit 7: Betas, Packaging, and Publishing

We’ve done our internal testing, now it’s time to go public! Let’s explore the benefits of public beta testing, along with guidelines and examples of best practices to get the most out of its stages. We’ll then go over how to package games for various systems, consoles, and devices and package our game for our current operating system. Finally, we’ll move into the various release stages and review valuable information about the types of publishing you may want to consider when releasing your own games.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Learn how to package your game for modern operating systems and devices

• Describe the stages of beta testing and their specific applications and purpose

• Explain the publishing methods available to a game and the costs and benefits of each

• Identify the different release stages and why some games might be better suited for different types of releases

Unit 8: Marketing and Supporting Your Game

Congratulations! You’ve almost made it. While your game might be ready, your development journey is likely just beginning. Let’s look at what to expect after releasing your game, handling good and bad reviews, using current advertising practices to realistically set up your game for success, monetizing properly to keep your development team funded for future projects, releasing additional content and updates, and leveraging your game’s new audience to help the success of future projects. Essentially, we will learn how to get the absolute most out of your hard work and the achievement of creating a game project!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Discuss what to expect after release and how to apply constructive criticism and monetization

• Explain branding and create marketing materials like cover art

• Evaluate the influence and costs of different types of marketing and advertising on the success of a game

• Plan for continued updates and content and leverage your current audience for future projects