People have been creating games as long as civilization has existed. Finding new ways to delight and entertain people in an interactive format that is constantly re-inventing itself while exploring new mediums such as board games, video games, mobile games even events.
In this workshop, students will learn and/or reinforce the concepts of game design and develop a prototype of a tabletop game using tokens, dice, cards, and other materials provided.
The workshop will include:
- Intro (10 minutes)
- A presentation by the instructor on his career history and working methods.
- Reimagining games (30 minutes)
- Yahtzee vs Farkle vs Dragon Farkle vs A Deck of Cards.
- This presentation/discussion is about how games have evolved over the years and the simple changes that can turn a good game into a ‘great’ game. Using the basic model of the game Yahtzee, we dive into core elements such as structure, game loops, agency and balancing. Looking at each of these 3 games, the students then enter a discussion around their prior experiences with games. The instructor then leads exercises that reinforce this part of the discussion.
- Playstorming (60 minutes)
- Students will break into small groups and use provided materials to begin ‘playstorming’ game concepts. Playstorming is where designers brainstorm concepts while seeing how components interact with each other to create an experience. The instructor will spend time working and fostering creative development for each group to create a prototype.
- Discussion (30 minutes)
- We’ll take the time for each group to give their ‘elevator pitch’ for their game. Groups will discuss what their ‘core game loop’ is and talk about any insights they may have had alongside full-class initial reactions to the game design.
- Rulebook crafting (60 minutes)
- We will discuss the dynamics and primary considerations of developing a rulebook. We'll guide the individual groups as they create their own.
30 MINUTE BREAK
- Discussion: Price of play showcase (30 minutes)
- The instructor will present on the commercial production of games and how they go beyond the prototype stage. Elements of production are essential when crafting games to ensure the students deliver a delightful final product to customers. We shall discuss concepts like core audience, weight, pricing, and box size.
- Playtesting (60-90 minutes)
- One person from each group will ‘facilitate’ a playtest with the other groups. Everyone will take the time to play each other's games and provide feedback and notes.
- Pricing (30 minutes)
- The final part of the workshop would be to break down your games components, and consider any additional elements that may come into play when realizing their final design. This includes any additional development.
MaterialsThe cost of the workshop covers tokens, blank cards, blank playing boards, dice, cardboard, etc.
Students will be able to leave the workshop with the rules to their game, any modified game elements that may have been used from class materials and any other notes they may need to take the game further.
Please arrive 20 minutes early. Parking is ample and easy.
