PDP Group Game Assesment

Description of Work Done

We have been set a task to come up with a game idea which is unique and design the entire game as a group. We have discussed our free times available within the group to arrange meetings and then met up on several occasions to brainstorm our game. Once we have decided on a game idea, we all have been set individual tasks. The tasks were set according to each member’s strengths. Throughout this process we met up on a regular basis in order to show each other our work so far and give any feedback.

Once all parts were completed we arranged a meeting so as to finalise the project and complete the game. When the work was completed to the necessary standard we created a presentation on each individual area.

The original game idea was a 2d platform Worms type of game called ‘’Terrorist Attack’’. My role in the group was to create the level design. I was also the group leader meaning that I had to organise each individual and make sure all work was up to date.

Reflection and Issues Identified (SWOT)

Once we presented our game in front of a member of staff a number of problems were highlighted. We had issues with the game idea which had to be resolved. The game we created was too similar to a game already in existence which meant it had to be modified in order to be original and unique.

On presentation of the game we were told that the game story and the game graphics were a strength so we decided to expand our game characters and the story so the game was longer.

The feedback provided helped us improve our game by pinpointing the areas that needed the most attention and allowing us to focus on our strengths.

Plan of Action (SMART)

We focused on the feedback given by the staff, specifically on the game idea and went about trying to improve it. We had a discussion within our group and did research on different kinds of games to gather the strong points of each one and then looked at ways of combining them. We also decided to ask a few people what they would like to see in a computer game and this feedback made us believe that our goal of achieving a unique game idea was possible.

We knew that it was unrealistic to have all the positive features in the games we looked at as well as all of the features looked for by the people we asked. Therefore we, as a group, had a discussion to narrow down which ideas would work best in the timescale given.

Completion / Review / Conclusion.

In conclusion, our research could have been improved and we would have had more time to prepare a game idea if this had been done at the start. This would have enabled us to focus on other aspects of the game in order to improve all round.

By choosing to divide the work amongst the group we ensured that everyone did an equal amount and it was also a good idea to give out the work according to each team members strengths so that everyone enjoyed the work they were given and put maximum effort in.

My experience of working in a group was a positive one and I believe that it will benefit me not only for the rest of the course but also in my future career. Being a group leader also showed that I can cope with responsibility and is something I would feel more confident about if asked to do it again.