Introduction

In this course we have studied various wars from the founding of America to the Gulf Wars.  The epic nature of war has fascinated people for years.  Movies, books and songs have all been created about war.  Many people have even made games using the content of various wars.  Over the next few weeks, you will be adding your names to the long list of wartime game developers. 

You will be working to create a game using facts about a war (or wars) we have discussed in class.  There are very few limitations in the type of game you create.  However, the work done on this project will be primarily on your OWN time.  We will spend a day or two  in class for research and development but the remainder of the project is on your own.  This project will serve as the final project for the class and will count as your exam grade. 

While you may choose to create your game on the computer please remember that time is limited, be sure you can complete this before you start!  If you do not finish, it will result in a substantially lower grade.

This will count as your Final Exam and be worth the same as a semester grade.  Take it seriously!

 Some examples of types of games you can choose from are

1)      Board Games (Monopoly, Clue, Life)

2)      Strategy Games (Axis and Allies, Diplomacy, Risk)

3)      Card games (Pokemon etc – NO General playing card games)

4)      Trivia Games (Trivial Pursuit or Jeopardy)

NOTE – The games given are to give you an idea of the TYPE of each game category.  Do not simply copy the rules/game play from an established game.  This will be treated as plagiarism and result in a zero for your final exam!

Your game will be evaluated on historic accuracy, creativity, depth and clarity of rules and presentation.  Your game must include the following elements:

 1.      Brainstorm list and analysis. (See Research and Development - below) (10%)

2.      Name of your game.  Creativity and design of game board and all elements needed to play the game.  (25%)

3.      Clear easy to follow rules that cover all aspects of game play.  Examples should be included.  Illustrations help, but are not required. (30%)

Rules should include: (You may have more)

Contents (listing them and describing them for players)

Object of the Game

How to Play the Game (with examples).  (Be sure you tell how to determine who goes first, what consists of a turn, any special rules.)

Variations in Rules (if necessary)

Specific Rules Explained in Detail (if necessary)

How to Win

4.      A brief history of the war or battle you are using as your source material. (Included with Rules packet) – Should set the mood for playing the game. Also historical content of the game.  (40%)

5.      An bibliography of the historic sources you used to create the game. (This should be at the end of the rules)   You must have at least 2 sources however additional sources may be used. (5%)

For this project your bibliography can be a simple list the sources or web addresses you used it to create your game.   

 Part I: Research and development

First you must decide what type of game you are creating and to topic your game will cover.  Will it be about the entire war, or just one battle?  How do you choose?  Research the historical material for your game on the Internet.  We will have two days in the lab for you to research.  You MUST also research on your own.  See me for library/lab passes if you need them.

 1.  In order to focus your computer research, you also need to determine the type of game you will be making.  Create a Brainstorm list of 10 games that you (or your friends and family) like to play and WHY you like these games (be specific “it’s fun” is not good enough – explain why is it fun).  

2.  Write a one - two paragraph analysis discussing the games on your list and describing what qualities seem to make these games poplar.  This will help you focus on what to do with your own game.  Remember you want a game that is educational AND fun to play.  This list and analysis is due by Friday January 11th  and is part of the final grade for the project ( 10%)

  Part II:  Design

1. Make the game board, pieces and rules for your game (Keep in mind this is not about spending a lot of money.  The dollar store probably would have items you could easily use for tokens if you don’t have any available at home). 

 2. Create a set of rules for your game.  Rules must be TYPED.  Have others read through the rules to make sure they are clear and free of typos before you turn it in.

 3.  Be sure to include the brief history of the conflict the game is about in the beginning of your rules!   Remember 40% of your grade is the how well your game shows history.

 4.  The game you turn in for a grade must be complete!  Be creative!  Decorate your boards with pictures, maps or other images. 

 ALL MATERIAL USED IN THE GAME MUST BE HIGH SCHOOL APPROPRIATE.

Anything not appropriate will result in a zero for your project.

Part III – Play Test & Turn In

Play your game with friends to make sure rules are clear.  Be sure to look for any factual errors you may have.  Make any adjustments you need to make to your game. 

Due Dates

January 8 & 9

In class research and design time.

January 11th

Brainstorm List due to Mrs. Earnst

January 23rd

Final Project Due

(this is during regents week.  Feel free to turn it in sooner if you wish.)

Projects turned in late will drop 1 letter grade (10 %)  each day they are late.