The NPA in Computer Games Development at SCQF levels 4, 5 and 6 introduce students to the genres, trends and emerging technologies of the computer games industry. This suite of awards provides a foundation in techniques that are important to the sector such as digital planning and design, creation of media assets, and development and testing — while also developing employability skills and Core Skills through enterprise activities.

The course consists of 3 Units:

Design

Students will investigate the underlying concepts and fundamental principles involved in digital gaming planning and design for different platforms, environments and genres.  Design methods used in the production of a digital game will be evaluated and students will plan a design a digital game to a given brief.

Media Assets

Students will acquire an understanding of the different types of media asset required for developing a digital game.  Students will learn how to plan and produce media assets for use in a game development environment.

Computer Games Development

Students will gain an understanding of the processes involved in the final stages of development of a digital game.  The chosen game development environment will be used to bring together all the parts and produce a working game.  Students will gain an understanding of the evaluation process and then go on to plan and deliver a promotional activity.

Assessment

To gain the course award, students must pass all three units above.

Students will be expected to create a portfolio of their work providing evidence of their progress throughout the units.