Guidelines

Groups of 3
Minimum time (per game) 30 minutes
Maximum time (per game) 1 hour
Take notes, ask questions, consider the prompt
Take screenshots / recordings if needed

Homeplay 1: Spatial Narrative and Environment

Due Thursday 4/11

Since Project 1 involves expanding on the world of roll-a-ball, we’ve compiled games that take different approaches to player movement, time, and level design. When playing these games consider the decisions made by the developers, the intentional use of friction, and if the concept and narrative of the game aligns with the mechanics of the game.

Homeplay 2: Zine Games

Due Thursday 5/2

When playing these games consider what might make them zine-like. Consider looking into other works by the developer or group. Are there formal, conceptual, or metatextual aspects to these games that would place them in a different category to mainstream games? What about “indie” games?

How to access games

PC Games

PC game files are available on the computer in the “undergrad lounge” on the fourth floor (Turn right after exiting the elevators).

After logging into the computer, they can be found in the folder “C:\Desma158\homeplay1”. You can play the games directly on the PC or put them on your own computer. If your game is available for mac and need the file, let us know.

This is the room where you can find the computer:

And here is the specific computer:

Console Games

For games that require a console (highlighted in magenta on the sheet), you can go to the print lab desk and let the attendant know that you want to check out a game for DESMA 158.

You will need your student ID to check out the game+console. You can only set up the console and play the game on one of the screens in the undergrad lounge (see above photos).

If there isn’t a person at the desk, you can check if someone is in the office across from the desk.