Community invited to play student-designed video games at Algoma U in Sault Ste Marie
MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate Release
(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – MARCH 31st, 2009): Local gamers who are in search of new challenges will soon be able to get first crack at some new titles that can’t be found in stores. Members of the community are being invited to come out and play video games that have been designed by Algoma University students. The free event will take place on Wednesday April 1st from 1pm to 2:30pm in computer lab NW203 on the Algoma University campus.
The seven games that will be available were designed and programmed by Algoma University students as part of the university’s first-ever video game design course, COSC2036. The types of games on offer run the gamut from platform shooters to role-playing games.
Says Danny Reid, Divisional Director of Information Technology Services at Algoma University, “This is a fun way for our computer science students to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have gained through participating in the game design course.”
The student video game showcase is the latest in a series of gaming-related activities that have been happening at the university. In late January, Algoma U was a host site for the first-ever Global Game Jam – a three-day game design competition. LAN gaming nights for high-school aged students have also become a regular fixture at the school.
For the past two years Algoma University has also had students participating in the Masters’ of Science in Computer Games Technology program, the MSc (CGT). This masters’ level degree is offered in partnership with the University of Abertay Dundee in Scotland. Historically, graduates of the program have been highly sought-after by top gaming companies. Recently, Algoma U’s MSc (CGT) students launched their own game review website, located at www.mastersgamereview.com.
“Gaming is a growing part of the entertainment industry and an increasingly popular activity for people from all walks of life,” says Reid. “With events such as these, we hope to continue to develop Algoma University as a hub for gaming development in the Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma region.”
About Algoma University
Algoma University offers a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in Psychology, Computer Science, Business Administration, Fine Arts, Community Economic & Social Development, and Biology; Algoma U is committed to offering a personal education experience unlike any university in Ontario. As the Canadian home of the internationally recognized MSc CGT from the University of Abertay Dundee, Algoma University is at the forefront of computer games technology education. Algoma University also offers accelerated second degree programs in Business Administration and Computer Science on its Brampton campus. To learn more about Algoma University, visit www.algomau.ca.
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Media Contact
Donna Woldanski
Divisional Directory of External Relations
Algoma University
705.949.2301 ext. 4120
donna.woldanski@algomau.ca