Foundation in Game Programming

Award: Futureworks Certificate of Completion
Duration: 32 weeks, Part-time
Learning Format: Instructor-led lectures/workshops & guided practical sessions
Start Date: September 2010
Fees: £1600 or 8 monthly payments of £220

• For more information call Ben on +44 (0)161 237 7574.

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Overview

The Foundation in Game Programming course is everything you need to get started in game development. Divided into three modules, you’ll learn to write exciting and interactive games using the game industry's preferred language, C++, get stuck into DirectX and even try your hand at dynamic lighting, texture mapping and collision detection, all using Microsoft’s industry standard Visual Studio 2008 software.

If you're looking for something longer that provides a direct route into the games industry, you should check out our DIPLOMA IN GAME DEVELOPMENT course.

The Foundation in Game Programming includes the following modules:

C++ Programming for Game Developers - Module I

In this first C++ module, you will become proficient with core C++ topics such as variables, console input and output, functions, loops, programming logic, pointers, strings, classes, and object oriented design and methodologies. In addition, you will study more complex C++ subject matter, such as operator overloading, file input and output, inheritance, and polymorphism.

C++ Programming for Game Developers - Module II

In this second C++ module, you will begin to move away from the text-based console applications built in Module I, and begin to examine Windows programming with the Win32 API. With the Win32 API, you will be able to write programs with resizable windows, mouse input, graphics, menus, toolbars, scroll bars, dialog boxes, and controls.

You will learn about fundamental graphic concepts such as double buffering, sprites, animation and timing, and masking. By the end of the course, you will have developed a fully functional 2D game, complete with graphics, physics, artificial intelligence, and input via the mouse. After completing this course, you will be adequately prepared for your first course in 3D graphics programming.

Graphics Programming with DirectX 9 - Module I

This module explores the fundamentals of 3D graphics rendering. The focus throughout these early lessons is on the core features of the DirectX 9 fixed-function rendering pipeline. This includes loading and drawing geometric objects, the use of lighting and textures to provide scene detail, developing camera systems for viewing simulation environments in real-time, and using alpha components for controlling object transparency to produce effects like glass and water.

Maths Primer - Self Study

The Maths Primer module reviews the fundamental mathematics necessary to get you started with game development. Essentially it is a quick review of the key maths topics that you studied at high school. The purpose here is to quickly prepare you for the more advanced mathematics you will study in the Advanced Game Development package.

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Other Games Courses:

Degree Courses

BA (Hons) Games Design

Futureworks Diploma Courses

Diploma in Game Development

Foundation Courses

Foundation in Game Art