MITx: Introduction to Game Design course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational principles of game design, emphasizing creativity, prototyping, and iterative development. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and hands-on projects, learners explore how rules, mechanics, and player experience shape engaging games across digital and non-digital formats. The course spans approximately 16–22 weeks of part-time study, with a total time commitment of around 90–120 hours, depending on pace. Students will progress through core design concepts, develop prototypes, conduct playtests, and ultimately design a complete game project that demonstrates their mastery of game design fundamentals.

Module 1: Foundations of Game Design

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Defining what a game is and identifying core elements
• Understanding rules, objectives, and player interaction
• Exploring feedback loops and interactive systems
• Analyzing examples from board games, digital games, and experimental games

Module 2: Game Mechanics & Systems

Estimated time: 32 hours

• Designing gameplay mechanics that create engagement
• Exploring balance, progression, and challenge design
• Creating reward systems and feedback structures
• Understanding how rules shape player decisions and strategies

Module 3: Prototyping & Playtesting

Estimated time: 32 hours

• Transforming ideas into playable prototypes
• Building simple prototypes using paper or digital tools
• Conducting playtesting sessions to gather insights
• Iterating on designs based on player feedback

Module 4: Player Experience & Game Dynamics

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Understanding player motivation and emotional engagement
• Designing pacing and challenge curves
• Encouraging exploration and creativity in gameplay
• Balancing difficulty to sustain player interest

Module 5: Storytelling and Meaning in Games

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Integrating narrative into game mechanics
• Exploring how games convey meaning and themes
• Using storytelling to enhance player immersion

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 28 hours

• Developing an original game concept and design document
• Creating a functional prototype (digital or physical)
• Refining gameplay through testing and iteration

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with playing games (digital or board games)
• No programming experience required
• Access to simple prototyping materials (paper, cards, etc.) or basic digital tools

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Define and apply core principles of game design
• Design engaging gameplay mechanics and systems
• Create and test playable game prototypes
• Analyze player experience and iterate on designs
• Present a complete game design project grounded in best practices