An Introduction to the History of Video Game Graphics

Remember when video game characters were little boxes? Do you wonder how those shapes turned into the gorgeous, nearly photorealistic environments on screen today? This course is a fun little time machine that takes you through gaming history, from the first days of gameplay to the cutting-edge graphics seen in modern-day blockbusters.

The course begins by exploring the fundamentals, focusing on the primitive video game graphics of the 8-bit and 16-bit eras. We examine how developers overcame early technological limitations, utilising limited colour palettes, sprite-based animation, and memory management techniques to create iconic games. Following that, we introduce you to bitmapped graphics and concepts like parallax scrolling, which paved the way for the 3D revolution. You'll discover how games evolved from flat screens to immersive worlds, diving into concepts like polygonal rendering and texture mapping, which form the foundation of modern game graphics.

Next, you'll explore modern developments in 3D rendering, including techniques like shadow mapping, particle systems, and shader programming. You’ll study the key components of technologies like OpenGL and DirectX, which have driven the industry's rapid growth. Finally, the course provides insight into the artistic side of game development, focussing on concept art, character creation, and world-building. This course is designed for gamers, game developers, and anyone who appreciates the artistry behind digital worlds. Are you ready to level up your understanding of video game history? Enrol today and learn for free!