Cognitive Science 0264 - Game Mechanics, Genres & Representation: Building accessible games from the ground up

This course will look at different game mechanics from analog, digital and hybrid games and systems through the lens of intersectionality and accessibility. Students will explore game mechanics and game genres throughout modern game design and develop or, in some cases, redevelop them further with the goal of inclusivity and accessibility. Can this game be accessed by everyone? If so, what value systems are applied to player identity in visual, written and game play elements? If not, what changes to the mechanics, genre, visual or written elements must be addressed to bring a game into full accessibility? Game design for the masses or game design for specific groups, this course will help students develop a broader understanding of what mass market focus really means and how that can be changed moving forward. Key words: game development, game art, entertainment design, game design

Media and Technology Students must have taken CS-144 or an equivalent class. Students should generally expect to spend 4 hours a week on work outside of class time.