Game Developer's Portfolio

Demo Reels Assignment

Lecture 3 in Chapter 5

Assignment: Create Your Demo Reel Content

Objectives

  • Develop a Detailed Storyboard/Script: Outline the structure of your demo reel, including the introduction, key highlight segments, and conclusion.
  • Capture High-Quality Footage: Record and collect initial clips that demonstrate various aspects of your technical work.
Important

You must deliver a 30s demo reel about your work and yourself for the Champlain Senior show. This is a requirement, but you can deliver more in-depth videos to be showcased on the Game Studio showcase website as extra material. So focus on making a 30s demo reel for the Senior show first, and if you have time, make a longer one for the website.

Part 1: Storyboard/Script for Your Demo Reel

Task

Create a comprehensive storyboard or script that details the structure of your demo reel. Your document should clearly outline:

  • Introduction:
    Describe how you will open your demo reel to grab the audience’s attention and introduce yourself.

  • Key Highlight Segments:
    Identify and detail the main features or projects you plan to showcase. Include notes on transitions, visual effects, and any accompanying text or audio commentary that will enhance these segments.

  • Conclusion/Outro:
    Explain how you will wrap up your demo reel. Include any calls-to-action (e.g., links to your portfolio or contact information) and summarize the key messages.

Guidelines

  • Storyboard Template:
    You are required to use the storyboard template available at Miro Storyboard Templates. This will help you organize your ideas visually and ensure a coherent narrative flow.
  • Clearly indicate which visuals or clips you plan to capture.
  • Include any ideas for text overlays, background music, or narration.
  • Organize your storyboard/script in a logical sequence to ensure a smooth and engaging narrative.

Part 2: Record and Capture Initial Clips

Task

Begin recording and capturing the initial footage from your projects. Focus on collecting high-quality clips that effectively demonstrate various aspects of your technical work, such as:

  • Game Mechanics in Action:
    Capture dynamic gameplay footage that highlights the core mechanics of your game.

  • Technical Demonstrations:
    Record segments that showcase your debugging tools, AI behavior, or other technical features.

  • Diverse Visuals:
    Include clips that show a variety of angles and scenarios, ensuring a well-rounded view of your work.

Guidelines

  • Ensure that the clips are clear and representative of your best work.
  • Use appropriate screen recording or gameplay capture tools to obtain high-resolution footage.
  • Organize and label your clips so that they can be easily reviewed and understood.

Submission Instructions

  1. Upload Your Storyboard/Script:

    • Post a link to your storyboard or script in the designated forum thread.
    • Important: Make sure you use the Miro storyboard template from Miro Storyboard Templates for your submission.
    • Ensure that the miro document is accessible.

  2. Share Your Initial Clips:

    • Provide a link (or links) to your recorded clips. Acceptable platforms include YouTube (unlisted), Vimeo, or any other suitable video-sharing service.
    • Make sure the clips are clearly organized and properly labeled.

  3. Peer Feedback:

    • Review and comment on at least five of your peers’ submissions.
    • Priority: Focus on providing feedback to students who have received fewer replies to ensure that everyone gets valuable input.
    • Your feedback should be constructive, highlighting strengths and offering specific suggestions for improvement.

  4. Deadline:

    • All submissions (both storyboard/script and initial clips) must be posted by the assigned deadline.
    • Late submissions may impact your overall evaluation and the opportunity for peer feedback.

Evaluation Criteria

Your work will be evaluated based on the following:

  • Completeness:

    • Does your storyboard/script cover all essential components (intro, highlights, outro)?
    • Are your initial clips of sufficient quality and variety?

  • Clarity and Organization:

    • Is your storyboard/script well-structured and easy to follow?
    • Are your clips clearly labeled and organized?

  • Creativity and Technical Merit:

    • Does your content effectively showcase your technical skills and creative vision?
    • Are the selected clips representative of your best work?

  • Peer Engagement:

    • Did you provide thoughtful and constructive feedback on at least five peer submissions?
    • Did you prioritize students who received fewer replies?