AAS College
BA (Hons) Games Design
The development of computer games has spanned many decades, ever since the invention of the first microcomputer and before. The existence of such forms of entertainment has in essence come to be part of most young peoples social structure. The development of internet cafe societies and web based gaming structures has extended the scope of such media forms in many aspects of the public arena. This, in Greece, is no exception. With internet cafes and social computer game arenas thriving, even in the mist of the current economic crisis. However, away from the circles of technological advancement in game structure, and as the games course indicates, the history and culture in this field of other game forms is strong. Children today still enjoy the challenge of board games and puzzles as much as any other child in the UK or around the world. And in the later years, card games and more mature games such as chess and backgammon also remain as much a part of social interaction as their technological counterparts, and are played as much in cafes and social gatherings as they are in the home. And we should not forget that Greece itself is the home of the now legendary Olympic games programme.
The setting up of a games course in the land of culture, mathematics and philosophy is an ideal setting. Looking at more modern aspects, the ability and talent to generate new industrial gain in commerce has great potential. There is the ground base for the youth market, as well as the educational stage to draw many student to such an exciting and novel course for this country. If validated, this will be the first of its kind to run in the scope of games development. Even though the digital graphics development training has a course specific to these needs and does cover the scope of web based design, the games design course goes a step further and even aids in complimenting the course, by looking a little deeper into the development and design of games that can be applied to such technological environments as the web and consoles as well as traditional market forms in board games.
With respect to the college provision, AAS is full equipped with the technical requirements of the course, with both main computer platforms available for development work, and even testing. The college is also equipped with a fully working model making facility to allow the design and development of more traditional game types. And with regard to other resources. AAS has set up and is developing a good library resource dedicated to the subject, as well as peripheral support from auxiliary staff. The main teaching staff have all the philosophical and technical expertise needed to deliver the course in an effective and appropriate manner. With the module structure defined in the course documentation being supported by members of staff with the necessary expertise.
All in all games design, traditional or modern technology has a place in the Greek market. It provides an opportunity also, due to the unique status it will hold in this country to draw greater attention to the north of Greece, to potential markets and development business and also, to draw attention to an educational system of a great opportunity for moving the country’s industry and educational future forward.
