Video Gaming
DRAWING TECHNIQUES (570-814-DW; 45 HOURS)
Students learn basic drawing techniques and the basic notions of perspective. They learn to use drawing as a means of representation. They create observation drawings and technical drawings. Finally they learn to interpret the instructions provided in a story board.
INTRO TO 3D MODELING & ANIMATION (574-811-DW; 90 HOURS)
Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have experience with digital imaging software, for example Photoshop, Flash, 3D Studio Max, etc, or related experience.
Students explore the basic functions of a 3D modeling and animation application software. They learn to model objects of varying complexity and to apply textures and lighting. They will also use the basic principles of animation to create short animated sequences.
ANIMATION TECHNIQUES I (574-817-DW; 45 HOURS)
Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have experience with digital imaging software, for example Photoshop, Flash, 3D Studio Max, etc, or equivalent experience.
This course explores the basic principles of rigging as applied to a series of very different characters. Students explore basic tools and apply them to various anatomical problems to find modeling and rigging solutions for character motion. Major emphasis is placed on proper identification and placement of controls.
PRINCIPLES OF ANIMATION (574-818-DW; 45 HOURS)
Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have experience with digital imaging software, for example Photoshop, Flash, 3D Studio Max, etc, or equivalent experience.
Students explore the fundamentals and characteristics of movement. By observing movement details and exaggerating these characteristics, they can achieve believable animations. A variety of animation exercises will be done in class.
PRINCIPLES OF MOTION AND ACTING (574-821-DW; 60 HOURS)
Prerequisite: Familiarity with computers and video games
Students explore the principles of human and animal mechanics, posing and body language. They analyze various examples in animated films and video games and share their observations in round table discussions.
LIGHTING AND RENDERING (574-824-DW; 60 HOURS)
Prerequisite: Familiarity with computers and video games.
Students explore realistic lighting and rendering techniques. Illumination, colour, shadows, darkness and light will be studied. The course introduces the students to the concepts of light, shadow and surface properties as they apply to creating environments and visual effects within a game.
ADVANCED 3D COMPUTER GRAPHICS (574-81B-DW; 45 HOURS)
Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have experience with digital imaging software, for example Photoshop, Flash, 3D Studio Max, etc, or related experience.
Students create scene elements such as props, scenery and landscape using 3D modeling software. The course also introduces students to the concept of light, shadow and surface properties of objects, environments and visual effects within a 3D game. Particle systems are used to create atmosphere and special effects. Models are then integrated in a game editor.
INTRODUCTION TO GAME DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT (582-812-DW; 60 HOURS)
Prerequisite: Basic familiarity with computers and video games
Students brainstorm game ideas in teams and invent a simple game using the basic concepts of game design. They analyze some existing games to help inspire them to build simple games based on instructions provided by the instructor. Students then produce a short game sequence using illustration application software.
THE GAMING INDUSTRY (582-814-DW; 45 HOURS)
This course is intended for students who want to learn about the video gaming industry and take a look at games from a historic perspective. They identify the key players in the industry and the main steps in the creation of a game. In addition, they identify various categories of games, components and characteristics of a game, game platforms and target markets. Students also learn the rules of professional ethics, intellectual property and the proper assignment of game credits.
SCRIPTING 1 (582-817-DW; 60 HOURS)
Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have programming or scripting experience or equivalent experience
Students are introduced to problem solving techniques, logic, pseudo code and algorithms. They familiarize themselves with the programming environment and learn basic programming for the purpose of writing simple scripts in a game editor.
GAME DESIGN (582-825-DW; 60 HOURS)
Prerequisite: 582-812-DW Introduction to Game Design and Development or equivalent experience
The students analyze different games to identify their components. They develop analysis grids and evaluate games. They design games based on scenarios provided by the instructor. They modify a game design to adapt it to different parameters or contexts.
The following industry professionals are part of our teaching staff:
