Cognitive Science 0270 - World Building: Creating Dynamic Worlds for Games and Animation

In this course, students will learn to create dynamic worlds with diverse populations, mythology, and characters for games and animation. Students will use a variety of techniques and processes to develop and design worlds for their concept. World building gives a rich and dynamic canvas on which to develop characters, obstacles, motivations, macro and micro issues, and conflicts and resolutions. Such practice allows for more robust and consistent worlds in which to set singular or serial events in linear and non-linear ways. Using visual and written content, students will develop characters and environments that are influenced by both created and existing cultural and historical content. Students interested in tabletop games, RPGs, and/or digital games are all welcome.

Media and Technology This course includes both in-person and remote elements, but can accommodate fully remote students. Students in this class can expect to spend 8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.