Game Design is a semester long course at the Entertainment Technology Center focusing on the design of classical games. The class focuses on creating rulesets and mechanics, designing experiences and the importance of iterating and playtesting.

My Game Design Projects:

Game Design Toolbox

One of the most useful things we did in game design is to build a reference of all games we have played, indicating particular aspects of those games that struck us. I found this incredibly helpful as it enabled me to focus on various aspects of games I have played, learn from them, and build my own library of inspiration for future games.

Download the toolbox

Assignment 1: Hopscotch Redesign

Our first assignment was to create a redesign of the game, Hopscotch. We had to analyze both the strengths and weaknesses of the game, and then come up with our own version.

I came up with a head-to-head, competitive version of Hopscotch that addressed the problems with waiting for your turn, and that a really good player often wins after only a few turns.

Download the full analysis and ruleset of "Duel-scotch"

Assignment 2: Dice Game

For this assignment, I created a dice game inspired by "Yahtzee!" but addressing the problem that there was very little player interaction in the game. Players took on the roles of master theives trying to steal the world's most precious jewels, either from the high-security safe or from each other!

I am quite pleased with this game, as it can be played in short sprints, and it creates great tension among players. The one thing I wish I worked on more was having a better way to explain the rules. I hope to find the time in the near future to do so.

Download the full analysis and ruleset of "Heist!"

Assignment 3: Adventure Game

This assignment would be the first time I would create and lead a D&D-style adventure game. For this assignment, I created an adventure based on the world of spies and espionage, taking players through an adventure where they had to secure a killer virus from an international weapons dealer.

The adventure was enjoyable, though there was much that could have been improved. I learned a lot from this assignment, particularly about interactive storytelling and the power of improv.

Download the full analysis