I am undecided on what to do for my midterm. I am a computer science major and would really like to create a text adventure program similar to Zork, but my schedule seems too busy to try and make an entire game. I am taking 18 credits right now, and 2 of the courses have the writing option as well as several out of the classroom activities. I was thinking that maybe I should try to start making a game, but if I was biting off more than I could chew, just write a paper instead, but keep working on the game when I have time and use it as a possible final project.
If I decide that I can’t create a game in time, my second idea is to write about the affects of how new technology has changed narrative. Originally I was just going to write about how new technology changed gaming narrative, but I think it would be better if I included more forms such as TV, film, and music technologies. It will compare narratives from old games, movies, and TV shows with that of new ones that seem to rely more on technology and visual effects than the actual narrative storyline itself. With the newer technologies the narratives were able to change because the technology gave us the ability to portray events in a different manner than before.
If anyone has suggestions as to what they think I should do I am open to suggestions. Also if anyone else in the class knows anything about programming and would like to work together to create a game that may be something to think about too.
2 comments:
I have this problem all the time with my major and activites. I always find myself bitting off more than what I can chew sometimes. Thus, here is what I would do...
Since you are a computer science major I say start making the computer game. Think of it more as a stress reliever (since I am assuming you are intrested in that type of stuff). However, don't make it your number one priority. If you finish your game, use it as a midterm project. Otherwise, if you don't have it finished by lets say 1.5 weeks before the due day, write your paper and use the game for your final project.
Just my opinion and what I would do in your situation. Just don't stress yourself out about it. Thats when things start going down hill.
I know I'm repeating myself, but if you really want to make a game, just start out doing a standard top-down design, with a specification (which could take the form of an essay about what your goals are, aesthetically/intellectually), then move on to a technical specification, and only then think about the actual coding. This way you have a functioning projec tnbo matter how far you get.
If you decide not to go for the game, and to write an essay instead, be aware that your initial idea is _far_ too general. You absolutely should not try to write about TV, film, music, and games all in one paper - focus on _one_, hopefully just one aspect of one. You don't want to start out with a topic that would be too vague for a 1,000 page book, but something as specific as humanly possible.
Post a Comment