Animation Department

GAD 101 – Introduction to Game Design
This course is an introduction to the theory and process of designing games. Students critically explore the historical, cultural, economic, and social aspects of the concepts and techniques used in the design of games; discover what the components of games are, including what parts of games are influenced by their design.; and learn several ways to approach the design of a game, including processes and best practices for prototyping, play testing, and balancing a game after it has been designed.

GAD 102 – Game Concept Design and Visual Development
In this course, students develop foundational skills for illustration and concept design by creating characters, props, and environments as used in the video game and animation industries. The course will focus on creating thumbnail and final illustrations, composition, value studies, perspective, and digital painting techniques for a concept design workflow.

GAD 103 – Game Technologies and Engines
This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and vocabulary of computer game tools and techniques. Students employ a variety of digital tools with a focus on game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine) to create playable environments. Included are topics such as introduction to game editors, 3D asset creation and management, and foundational skills in creating playable content.

GAD 104 – Game Level and Environment Design
In this course, students develop skills in the process of creating environments and level designs for playable media. Students design and construct living environments that include climate, habitat, and ambiance that reflect a level design document.

GAD 106- Game Prototyping and Mechanics
In this course, students explore the various aspects of game mechanics: what they are, how they can be formed, how they interact with each other, what values they transmit, and how they relate to the application of the overall game design. Students prototype, test, and implement mechanics that meet the limitations of a “target platform.” In the course, a game design document is created that illustrates all aspects of game production, including game description, game mechanics, and identifying problem areas. The game design documents address business aspects of the industry that impact designs, including demographics, economic models, budgets, and marketing.

GAD 203 – Game Technologies and Systems
In this course, students develop a fundamental understanding of how the technical aspects of game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine) are applied to the development of games. Topics include animation construction, playable characters, heads up display (HUD) development, and event triggers. In the course, students design a game and, using a game engine, make a basic prototype that includes a major feature, a minor feature, and a level mechanic.

GAD 210A – Game Production Studio A
In this course, students explore the process and production in game design and related industries by working in groups on projects. In the course, students closely simulate the roles, responsibilities, and demands of professional work environments such as animation studios, visual effects houses, and game design companies; and work on projects such as animated shorts, interactive content, and video games.

GAD 210B – Game Production Studio B
In this course, students explore the process and production in game design and related industries by working in groups on projects. In the course, students closely simulate the roles, responsibilities, and demands of professional work environments such as animation studios, visual effects houses, and game design companies. Students also continue development work on projects such as animated shorts, interactive content, and video games.

GAD 210C – Game Production Studio C
In this course, students explore the process and production in game design and related industries by working in groups on projects. In the course, students closely simulate the roles, responsibilities, and demands of professional work environments such as animation studios, visual effects houses, and game design companies. Students also take a lead role in development work on projects such as animated shorts, interactive content, and video games.