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TCID 190 Playing Games: An Introduction to Game Studies

This course is an introduction to the field of Game Studies. Students will learn about the history of Game Studies, explore key theories in the field, and apply these theories to their own gaming experiences. This class is designed to be hands-on. Students will play games, engage in discussion, apply common game theories, write about and analyze games, and apply their knowledge through creating and pitching a game concept.
4 Undergraduate credits

Effective May 7, 2026 to present

Learning outcomes

General

  • Summarize key theoretical concepts within the field of Game Studies
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the game design process
  • Discuss their own gaming experiences with key theoretical concepts
  • Explain common game design problems and solutions
  • Contrast the approaches game designers utilize
  • Interpret each other¿s Game Design Documents and give substantive feedback
  • Practice writing a Game Design Document that could be used to create a game in a chosen medium

Fall 2026

Section Title Instructor books eservices
50 Playing Games: An Introduction to Game Studies Roney, Patrick Books for TCID-190-50 Fall 2026 Course details for TCID-190-50 Fall 2026