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In this module, you will explore the building blocks of a typical game and learn the fundamentals of game design and development. You will create games using the Unity Game Engine, while gaining hands-on experience in implementing key design features. Along the way, you will develop an understanding of industry-standard team and project management practices. The module also encourages you to consider the social, cultural, and ethical implications of game design, preparing you to approach game creation responsibly. This foundational module sets the stage for more advanced studies in game development.

In this module, you will explore the core principles of scripting languages like Python and JavaScript, including type systems and the differences between interpretation and compilation. You will learn how to work with graphics in a web browser, using tools like scalar vector graphics (SVG) and the HTML canvas to create dynamic visual content. The module also introduces the fundamentals of unit testing to ensure code reliability and quality. By the end of the module, you will apply these skills to design and develop simple JavaScript games, integrating scripting, graphics, and testing practices. 

This module provides an overview of key topics fundamental to successfully building computer games. You will learn to use command-line tools and a version control system. The module introduces a high-level model of modern computer architecture, helping you understand how processing and memory works and where performance bottlenecks can arise. Core mathematics concepts, including linear algebra and trigonometry, are covered and applied to practical game-related problems throughout the module.

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of programming in C++, progressing to an introduction to Object-Oriented Programming (OOP). You will start by learning essential programming concepts, including types, variables, arrays, sequences, selection, and iteration. The module emphasises practical programming and problem-solving skills, and you will apply your knowledge to create clones of classic arcade games in C++.

This module focuses on the principles and practice of interactive 3D modelling and rendering. You will use professional 3D modelling software, such as Maya, to create 3D assets and gain practical experience with the modelling pipeline. You will be introduced to GPU programming, learning to write shader programs and implement techniques used in modern rendering to create realistic, real-time visuals. Throughout the module, you will also study the mathematical foundations underpinning these processes to understand how transformations, lighting, and other rendering techniques work. 

Mobile games are designed for handheld devices like mobile phones, portable consoles, and tablets, and must run on a wide variety of hardware. This module explores the challenges of mobile game development, from concept to deployment. You will create your own mobile games, focusing on portability across devices and addressing the constraints posed by limited resources.

The module also introduces the concept and applications of AI in games. You will learn and implement key AI techniques, including knowledge-based reasoning, graph-based search algorithms, probabilistic reasoning, finite state machines, flocking, and behavior trees, applying them to your game projects.

This module introduces the mathematical techniques and physics required for modelling motion and collision detection in games. You will learn to apply these techniques to simulate realistic motion and collisions, equipping you with the foundational skills for game physics. The module also introduces Unreal Engine 5, where you will develop games using its advanced features. You will explore visual scripting for rapid prototyping and learn to navigate the engine's interface effectively.

This module focuses on deepening your knowledge of the C++ programming language within a professional software development context. You will develop advanced skills to write high-quality, technically proficient code. Topics such as object-oriented design, generic programming, pointers and references, memory management, testing and profiling, polymorphism, design patterns, and integrating existing libraries are introduced in the context of developing a game. As part of the module, you will apply these techniques to create games in C++. 

This module provides an in-depth exploration of Unreal Engine, focusing on its interface and prototyping capabilities with a professional approach. Building on visual scripting, you will progress to writing C++ code within Unreal Engine, enabling you to tackle more complex development challenges by creating bespoke solutions. The module introduces C++ for creating constructors, classes, and memory management tasks within the game engine along with advanced game engine functionalities such as multiplayer networking, cross-platform development, and user management. You will work in a team to develop a game, applying your knowledge to create a polished, collaborative project.

In this module you will explore advanced topics in modern rendering including the hardware architecture of modern GPUs and how to program these efficiently. You will use C++ and a modern rendering API to create realistic, interactive, 3D scenes. You will explore topics such as Physically Based Rendering, Compute Shaders, Post-Processing, and Procedural Generation.

This module explores the relationship between memory, CPU, threads, and the GPU in real-time applications. You will work through ideas and techniques which can improve the performance characteristics of applications. These theoretical and practical ideas are then supported and demonstrated using toolchain including CPU and GPU profiling and inspection tools. 

This capstone module prepares you for the job market by giving you the opportunity to produce a significant project related to the games industry. You will work independently to design, develop, test, and evaluate a substantial piece of software which demonstrates creativity and understanding of a structured development pipeline. Projects can be sourced from academic proposals, external organisations, or your own ideas.