Video Game Design

Building Games in JavaScript

The video game design curriculum teaches the foundations of creating video games in JavaScript. While this course is introductory, it requires a good mathematical background and analytical thinking. Its curriculum teaches the foundations of computer science and basic programming, with an emphasis on helping students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Once students complete the course, they will have learned material equivalent to a semester college introductory course in Computer Science and be able to program in JavaScript.
6:00 – 7:00 on Tuesdays
Sep 4, 24 to Jun 4, 25
Code Cadets
Grades: 9th to 12th

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Learning Environment: In-person classroom with hands-on programming practice.

Programming Environment: JavaScript programs are written and run on classroom computers.

Prerequisites

Designed for beginners with no previous background in computer science.

Course Breakdown

Unit 1: JavaScript Basics

Students learn JavaScript basics including variables, user input, mathematics, and functions.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Variables
  • User Input
  • Arithmetic Expressions
  • Functions

Unit 2: The Canvas and Graphics

Students learn to add and position graphics objects on the canvas.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • JavaScript Canvas
  • Positioning Graphics Objects

Unit 3: Graphics Challenges

Students apply graphics knowledge to complete set challenges.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Solving complex problems using graphics

Assignments / Labs

  • Example Exercise: Ghost

Unit 4: JavaScript Control Structures

Students use control structures to make advanced programs in JavaScript.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Booleans
  • If/Else Statements
  • Loops
  • Logical/Comparison Operators

Unit 5: Control Structures Challenges

Students solve new challenges using control structures.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Solving complex problems with control structures

Assignments / Labs

  • Example Exercise: Guessing Game

Unit 6: Functions

Students learn to write reusable code with functions, parameters, and return values.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Defining/Calling Functions
  • Parameters
  • Return Values
  • Scope

Unit 7: Basic Game Design

Students start designing simple games using JavaScript and graphics.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Game Loop
  • Event Handling
  • Collision Detection

Unit 8: Advanced Game Design

Students create more complex games.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Advanced Collision Detection
  • Game Physics
  • Scoring Systems

Unit 9: Final Project

Students design and implement a complete video game.

Objectives / Topics Covered

  • Project Planning
  • Game Design Documentation
  • Implementation
  • Testing and Debugging