General provisions

The course is part of the minor field of study Expression in Convergent Media.

The course is part of the Bachelor's programme Game Design and Graphics, 180 ECTS.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements and Mathematics 2a/2b/2c or Mathematics B

Learning outcomes

The goal of this course is for the student to acquire basic knowledge and skills in artistic expression with 2D computer graphics in digital games. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate basic theoretical and practical knowledge and skill in artistic expression and visual communication through the principles and elements of art,
• Exhibit basic knowledge and skill in sketching techniques, construction drawing and character design in relation to the human body, based on dynamics, movement, line-of-action, volume, anatomy and game design,
• Display basic knowledge and skill in the application of colour theory, light and shade,
• Demonstrate basic theoretical and practical knowledge and skill in perspective drawing and composition of simple environments, and
• Present basic knowledge and skill in production of interactive 2D-graphic games.

Content

The course begins with an introduction to visual communication and communication theory, as well as the principles and elements of art. The focus is on character design and development applied to 2D computer graphics. It consists of practical and theoretical expression components such as perspective and construction drawing of both objects and the human form. The course introduces components such as sprites, animation and parallax for 2D-games, as well as implementation of assets in a game engine.

Instruction

This course combines classroom activities and individual study. Classroom activities are in the form of lectures, seminars and workshops.

The course is taught in English.

Assessment

The course uses either Pass with distinction, Pass, or Fail for grading. Examination is in the form practical and written assignments as well as oral presentations throughout the course. Grading is based on the degree to which the submissions demonstrate an understanding and application of the theoretical, technical and artistic content of the course as specified in the course goals and requirements for each assignment.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Uppsala University does not accept cheating or plagiarism. Suspected incidents of cheating or plagiarism are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, which may issue a formal warning to the student or suspend the student from studies for a certain period.

NB: Only a completed course may be counted towards a degree.