gameState.asciidoc

GAME STATE (new groups of 2-3)

In Graphics the state of our game was generally spread across multiple variables. Game State is generally collected together in a more structured manner.

1. Find a YouTube video of either Space Invaders, or Chuckie Egg

2. It may be useful to slow done the video.

GAME STATE 2

Construct a table of all elements of the game state, containing these columns:

1. Which element? (visible on the screen, or must be stored in order to make decision wrt Game Mechanics)

2. Data-type makes best sense (int, float, string)?

3. Can there be more than one of this element? If so, how might they be collected?

4. How frequently does each change?

GAME STATE 3

Managing game state is important generally, but also important for loading/saving games.

1. Use your table to write down a set of values for your game at some point during Game Play

2. Put these either in a table, or a file format of your choice (e.g. json)

3. Add a set of notes to make any elements that aren’t entirely clear, clear

GAME STATE 4

1. Swap your file/table with another group

2. Try to reconstruct their game state from the file/table

3. Are there any elements that they missed?

4. Do you agree with all their decisions?

   1. Again, constructive criticism - Critique the IDEAS, not the authors - Suggest ways to improve

5. Email your file/table to me (jshearer@lincoln.ac.uk)d