Basic Understanding of Board Game Mechanics
Familiarity with core game mechanics is essential for designing effective expansions. This knowledge will help you identify how new elements can enhance or disrupt existing gameplay.
Familiarity with Game Design Concepts
Understanding fundamental game design principles will allow you to apply advanced techniques effectively. This includes concepts like player engagement, balance, and thematic consistency.
Experience Playing Various Board Games
Having played a variety of board games will give you insights into different mechanics and styles. This experience is crucial for identifying opportunities for expansion in existing games.
Game Mechanics and Balance
Why This Matters:
Refreshing your knowledge on game mechanics and balance will be beneficial as you'll need to integrate new elements without disrupting existing gameplay. Understanding balance can help you create a more engaging expansion.
Recommended Resource:
"The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell - This book provides a comprehensive overview of game design principles, including mechanics and balance.
Narrative Design in Games
Why This Matters:
Reviewing narrative design will help you create compelling stories that resonate with players. You'll learn how to weave narrative elements into your expansion, enhancing player engagement.
Recommended Resource:
"The Writer's Guide to Game Design" - This online resource covers essential narrative techniques specifically for game design.
Pitching Techniques
Why This Matters:
Brushing up on pitching techniques will prepare you for effectively presenting your expansion ideas. Understanding how to communicate your vision clearly can significantly impact your success with publishers.
Recommended Resource:
"Talk Like TED" by Carmine Gallo - This book offers insights into effective presentation skills that can help you deliver a compelling pitch.
Preparation Tips
- ⭐Set a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times each week to focus on course materials and assignments. This will help you stay organized and ensure you dedicate enough time to each module.
- ⭐Gather Necessary Materials: Collect resources such as design software, art supplies, and reference games. Having everything on hand will streamline your design process and keep you focused.
- ⭐Engage with Peers: Connect with fellow students to discuss ideas and share feedback. Collaborative learning can enhance your understanding and inspire creativity.
- ⭐Create a Prototype: Start thinking about your expansion pack early by sketching ideas and creating rough prototypes. This hands-on approach will help solidify your concepts and identify potential challenges.
- ⭐Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation skills by pitching to friends or family. This will build your confidence and help you refine your delivery before the final showcase.
What to Expect
This course is structured over 8-10 weeks, with a mix of theoretical lessons and practical assignments. Each module builds upon the last, culminating in a final pitch presentation. Expect engaging discussions, peer feedback sessions, and a focus on real-world applications of game design principles. You'll work on a hands-on project, developing a thematic expansion pack that you'll pitch to your classmates, simulating a real-world publishing scenario.
Words of Encouragement
Get ready to unleash your creativity and design skills! By the end of this course, you'll not only have a thematic expansion pack but also the confidence to pitch it effectively. Embrace this journey and watch your ideas come to life!