Computer and Video Game Theory for Independent Developers

Also known as, “So you want to make computer games?”

This online course is suitable for anyone wanting to make computer games, or those interested in the thought process required to make your own games. Once completed, you should come away with:

A clearer idea of the direction you need to go in order to make a game.
Important things to research when designing your games.
Some of the pitfalls to avoid when making a game.
An idea of the mindset you need to make your game work the way you want it to.

Consisting of 100% animated video content, the course is designed to be informative and interesting for everyone from school children, through college and University students, right up to existing indie developers and those already working in the games industry. Hopefully everyone interested in making computer games will find it gives them food for thought.

With fully subtitled video, split into 54 bite-size chunks, it is suitable for viewing and reviewing whenever you have a few spare minutes. No previous game making skills are required – just a passion for computer games.

Main topic areas covered include:

Coming up with a good idea for your game.
Some BIG questions to ask yourself to ensure your game will work how you want it to work.
Learn a little about the psychology of your gamers so they keep playing.
Thinking differently so your games run efficiently.
The hardware your games will run on, taking advantage of their features and avoiding their limitations.
A little about the importance of maths with examples showing why.
NEW: Make your own “Fruit Slice” game! All of the mechanics, maths and pseudo code you need.
NEW: Make your own “Maze” generator! The theory, a simple algorithm and the pseudo code.
NEW: Artificial Intelligence in video games. How it works and how to make your own Neural Network.
Finishing and testing your games.

Available on Udemy:
https://www.udemy.com/computergametheory/

For those new to Udemy online courses, you can join for free and they usually offer big discounts for new members.

“Great course with a great overview of the concepts for the hobbyist developer…”
– Fernando Ortiz

“Love the animations. The information is very easy to understand, starts simple but gets more in-depth. I would say this course would be good for everyone…. school students up to university students and anyone who wants to make their own games.”
– George Jones

“Brilliant. Really Useful. I love the animated lessons. I will keep coming back to it to rewatch lessons as I try to make my first game…”
– Jane Dogherty

About the Author

Having been an active player in the IT industry for decades, I started as a hobbiest game programmer around the age of 10 years old. I have experience of writing software for many, many computer and video game systems from old 8 bit home computers right up to modern mobile, PC and console systems.

I have 20 years experience working in the further education sector, and have also developed professional applications for multiple industries including education, automotive, child safety, medical and gaming.