Game Development Essentials: Game Interface Design

As an introduction to the complex topic of user interface design, this in-depth book discusses player interface design conventions and looks at the effects of platform, genre, and design goals related to electronic games. Readers will explore everything from the history of game interface design and basic design theories to practical strategies for creating a winning, interactive interface. A host of professional applications, revealing insights, and illuminating anecdotes from dozens of pioneering game designers will inspire readers to explore this fascinating aspect of the electronic games industry.

Kevin Saunders is a senior designer at Obsidian Entertainment. Previously he was lead designer and producer of Shattered Galaxy, which swept the 2001 Independent Games Festival and was recognized by GameSpot as the Most Innovative Game of the year. Kevin has worked as a designer on Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds, Far Cry, Command & Conquer Generals: Zero Hour, Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth, Knights of the Old Republic 2, and Neverwinter Nights 2.

Jeannie Novak is Lead Author and Series Editor of the widely acclaimed Game Development Essentials series. Through Indiespace, an interactive entertainment company she founded in 1994, she provides consulting services for game developers and other creative professionals. Jeannie is Program Director of Game Art & Design and Media Arts & Animation at the Art Institute Online. She has developed and taught game courses at UCLA, Art Center, DeVry, Westwood College, ITT, UC Berkeley, and Santa Monica College. Jeannie holds a BA in Mass Communication from UCLA and an MA in Communication Management from the Annenberg School at USC. She serves on the MMOG and Online Excellence committees for the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.