Project Three: Animate and Simulate

Create a basic simulation. This could be something that dynamically animates over time. It could be an interactive animation that responds to user input. Or it could be a very simple game.

Begin

Look at a range of interactive, animated digital media projects. Study their interfaces and interactive mechanisms. Imagine a simple interactive experience that grows out of your experiences and interests.

Prepare

Create a storyboard/wireframe that shows the interactive elements of your project. Build a paper prototype of your interaction. Test out that prototype with friends and fellow students. Sketch out the images and interfaces you plan to use—experiment with line, shape, texture, and color. Gather sounds to enhance the interactive experience.

Build and Test

Code your interface and initial composition. Add the interactive elements of your project. Be open to accidents along the way that lead you in new directions—mistakes may hint at a more engaging approach.

Organize your files and make your code legible. Show your project to two or three friends. Update elements that confuse or frustrate your audience. Upload your project to the web and test it across different platforms and browsers.