Studiegids

Content

In Level Design, we focus on the development of playful, virtual spaces and, more specifically, the integration of gameplay within these environments. We approach this from a theoretical and practical angle. On the one hand, we look at the evolution of architecture and how space gives context to a location. This leads to developing an experience that the visitor to that space will experience and how they are guided through the experience. The (indirect) communication between player and game designer is central to this. On the other hand, students learn how to transform their ideas into a playable space. As a result, students should be able to develop and implement a clear vision in terms of game experience within their level.

The assessment of this module is split between two assignments:

Assignment 1: Pre-production Blueprint

Working out a virtual environment is best done with a solid preparation, so you can better keep the focus on the essence times the design process. As a preliminary study, we therefore have the students develop a pre-production blueprint. This includes most of the substantive questions to be asked and should paint a clear picture of the final product. Since the blueprint is the conceptual groundwork for the later environment, we take our assessment criteria for both together here. Where the environment was sometimes unfinished or unclear, the blueprint could then provide some clarification. The blueprint is therefore the student's vision that should be grounded in theory in class, while the elaboration should show technical ability and practical tips from throughout the module.

During this assignment, students should also work out some conceptual sketches linked to the level. The concept art should communicate the atmosphere of the environment through design, lighting, use of colour, etc. As a result, the concept art should outline a story and embody the characters using that space. As a result, students should reflect on the communicative role of architecture and the conceptual design of an environment.

Assignment 2: Playable level

For the final assignment, students must develop their blueprint into a playable level. We discuss the size of the assignment per project, but as a guideline we aim for an experience of 10 to 20 minutes. The game experience is central to this. The environment may be graphically simplified but should still embody the atmosphere and core of the level. Here, we want to see the aspects we discussed during the lessons (scripting, focal points, moment-based design, lighting) reflected and test how these develop a focused experience.
 

Course material

The assignment incl. accompanying information and study materials will be made available via Toledo.

A reading list is also provided on Toledo, which can be consulted optionally for supplementary purposes:

- "Level Design: Concept, Theory and Practice" by Rudolf Kremers
- "Level design for games: Creating compelling game experiences" by Phil Co
- "An architectural approach to level design" by Christopher W. Totten

- Online articles on various platforms by multiple authors - online articles and tutorials

Language of instruction: more information

Language of contact is Dutch. 

If classes are taken by Erasmus students, subjects may be taught in English.

Documentation, guest speakers or study visits may occasionally be given in English (or French, German,...).

Format: more information

The following arrangements apply within this course:

- The student is responsible for obtaining regular feedback and processing it.

- Deadlines are strictly respected unless approved by the lecturer.

The module consists of lectures in which the final assignment is also discussed and worked out on the basis of theory. The lessons may be partly digital. Information about these lessons can be found via Toledo. Students work on the assignment individually. Information about the deadline and how to submit the assignment can be found on Toledo.

College

Classes will (largely) continue physically. Information about these classes can be found on Toledo. There may also be online classes & contact moments.

Practicum

Practicum classes/ateliers/... will take place (in small groups) on campus. Online contact moments and guidance sessions may also take place.

Assignment

Students will work individually/in a group of X students on the assignment. Information about the deadline and how to submit the assignment can be found on Toledo.