Understanding the Games Industry

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
T/617/6816
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
24 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of evidence

Aim

The aim of this unit is for learners to explore the structure of the games industry, the different types of job roles available and market trends.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know the structure of the computer game industry.

Structure of the computer games industry;
Geographical scope (international, national, local)
Size (large, small-size and medium-size businesses, sole traders, external contractors) 
Structure (public, private, cross-sector)
Institutions (Developer, publisher, distributor, hardware, retail, consumer)

Types of companies within the computer games industry:
Sectors of the computer games industry;
(e.g. PC, console, mobile, research, design, production, distribution)

Employment links:Contracts, freelance, conditions, homeworking, hourly paid, salaried, pay on completion, technical, creative, managerial, sales, marketing, financial, testers, artists and modellers, programmers, engineers and writers, job roles.

Departments:
Design, production, programming marketing, distribution, financial HR, QA

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explain the different types of companies that make up the computer games industry.

  • 1.2

    Explain the different job roles within the computer games industry.

2 — Know about market trends within the computer games industry.

Market Trends
Subscription, marketing channels, competitors, international and national markets, size of audience, number of games companies, different sizes companies, types of games, rise/decline sales, player demographics

Business Models
Evolved, diversification, casual games, financial performance, portfolio of games, retail model, digital model, distribution model, subscription model, trading model, advertising model

Financial Models
Financial responsibilities, preparing a budget, franchises, outsourcing, crowdfunding, business angels

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe different market trends within the computer games industry.

  • 2.2

    Assess how two or more different factors have influenced recent market trends within the computer games industry.