Semester(s) Offered: Spring
Credits: 4
Course Call Number: GAMES-GT 202
Prerequisite(s): None
Visual systems are forms of graphic presentation governed by rules. Graphic mediums have inherent qualities that we endeavor to explore and ultimately seek to exploit. The computer, as a graphic medium and tool, offers the unique ability to impose ultra fast order and structure to a dynamic presentation process. From the very simple (the raster image) to the tediously complex (ray traced lighting), various systems lay at the heart of computer graphics and interactive visual art. This course will examine the technical and aesthetic qualities, affordances and limitations of several important graphic processes used in games today. Students will be encouraged to explore new software, and even consider developing their own tools, as they engage with class assignments. Two weeks will be given for each assignment, followed by a presentation of the work and a constructive group critique. Additionally, this course will provide a time and place for students to bring forward specific visual design problems from their thesis projects for critique and discussion.
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
1) Grow familiar with new graphic tools and processes (Maya, LUA, Love2D).
2) Learn various ways of building and controlling interactive graphic structure.
3) Learn to use technical and descriptive visual design language during critiques and discussions.
4) Learn to identify graphic ideas and technical methods used in video games and other software.
5) Learn how to think effectively about computer graphics development.
6) Feel inspired to push at the boundaries of the visual standards in our industry.