Ever wanted to make a video game? Come join us!
In Spring 2017, I will be leading a multidisciplinary undergraduate team in the development of an original educational game based on themes of environmentalism and sustainability. We will be working together as an independent game development studio, following industrial best practices to make the best game we can in one semester and three credit-hours. Our meetings will be 9:00–11:00AM MWF in a dedicated studio space.
This immersive learning project is a collaboration with Camp Prarie Creek—a free summer camp for kids that teaches about environmentalism, sustainability, water quality, and outdoorsmanship. Our game will complement their message.
I do not have specific details about the game design because that is the topic of a Fall 2016 colloquium I am offering through the Honors College. The students and I are prototyping games in order to explore the design space, and at the end of the semester, I will work with Camp Prairie Creek to select the design or designs most amenable to production in the Spring.
All majors are welcome to apply to be a part of the game production studio. The application process helps me to craft a team with the right balance of skills and experience to succeed. I am particularly interested in recruiting students with experience in Art, Biology, Computer Science, Education, English, Music, and Natural Resources and Environmental Management, but all are welcome—there is a lot of work to be done! Ideal candidates should be in the junior or senior level within their specialization areas (e.g. for Computer Science majors, you should have completed CS222). A draft course description is available if you are interested in some of the course implementation details.
To apply, fill out the form at the link below. Full consideration will be given to those who apply before October 29. I expect to be able to review the applications and get back to you before October 31, when course registration opens for the Fall. If you are accepted into the studio, we will work together to determine the best way for you to earn your three credits. For example, Computer Science majors and minors will be able to earn CS499 credit, which counts as an elective on both programs.
Please share this announcement with anyone you know who might be interested, and feel free to email me if you are interested.
Thank you for your attention!
Paul Gestwicki, Associate Professor, Computer Science Department