Unit 22 - Developing Computer Games!My

Monday not-madness,

This morning, we have officially started the next unit - unit 22. Firstly, I completed the survey for the previous unit, (although it is not yet finished as we still have A3T2 to complete, which will be taking place over a four week period over the month whilst we work on the new unit). Secondly, I then loaded up the Scheme of Learning for Unit 22 and completed its initial survey. I had ticked most of the boxes as "very good" as I have a large interest in this topic, however my experiences are low. Nevertheless, it means I am willing to work hard and learn lots to perform the best of my ability in this unit.

Afterwards, we started off the day with "Zoetic Zoe" explaining the learning objectives behind this unit, such as the impacts to society from games, the physiological factors, types of game genres and platforms, and as well as what we will be doing such as creating the game, then testing and debugging it. She gave a variety of examples from the book, which means I will read the text book more to obtain more valuable knowledge.

Still, within the first part of the day, we all went back to A3T2 and filled in from three to four different targets to achieve. I gave myself challenging yet achievable targets to reach by within a week. For the actual 'review date column', I left it blank as I can comment that I have achieved the targets before the deadline comes, (which will most likely happen).

My Personal Development Plan

Afterwards, we broke up for break early. During this time, I stayed behind to help another student Ben R review his presentation. I volunteered because as my role as head boy, I would like all fairness to all students. After reviewing his presentation I quickly presented mine again to him so he can write a review which will be used for his A3T1. Moreover, I was also mentioned with Thomas L that I am the blog star of last week, woo! (This is my 7th time?)

We then played some games of all genres and platforms from last year to see what there is. I had a lot of fun and became a lot more inspired with more ideas.
Moving on, the whole class then installed Game Maker, then for the rest of the day we watched and read tutorials to how to create a basic game. I used the example "Zoetic Zoe" made available to the class and followed the instructions. As I had previous experience on this program, I recognized some functions therefore I adapted quicker which is good. In the end, I created a game where the player must click on the randomly moving sprite to collect points - the speed increases as the difficulty gets harder too. I then spent the rest of the day improving the game and changing settings to explore other new things.

Creating A Game In GameMaker

During self-study time, I submitted A3T1 in a new email thread to get it out of the way. Thus, I then tidied my files and spent the rest of the hour drawing to improve my skills as well as to create the Christmas card as the event is upcoming. I plan to head home and watch some tutorials on Game Maker as well as to read the text book to reach other targets I have set for myself.