Game Developer's Portfolio

In-Class Activity: Visualizing Complexity with UML Tools

Objective

In this activity, you will use one of the UML or diagramming tools to visually represent a complex system, mechanic, or workflow from your game, project, or capstone. The goal is to illustrate an idea that cannot be fully explained through a screenshot or gameplay footage alone.

Instructions

1. Choose a Concept

• Identify a system, mechanic, or workflow in your project that is difficult to communicate through images or videos alone. Examples include:
  • AI decision-making process
  • Game state transitions
  • Multiplayer networking flow
  • Procedural generation pipeline
  • Skill tree or upgrade system

2. Select a Diagram Type

• Pick the best diagram format to represent your idea:
  • State Machine Diagram (for game state transitions)
  • Flowchart (for procedural generation logic)
  • Sequence Diagram (for player/enemy interactions or networking events)
  • Class Diagram (for illustrating code structure)

3. Use a UML Tool

• Select and use one of the following online tools to create your diagram:
  • Mermaid.js
  • Diagram.codes
  • Code2Flow
  • SequenceDiagram.org
  • Draw.io

4. Export & Share

• Export your diagram as an image or share a link to your diagram.
• Post it in the class forum along with a short explanation of what it represents.

5. Peer Review

• Review at least three classmates' diagrams.
• Provide feedback on clarity, accuracy, and potential improvements.

Discussion & Reflection

At the end of the activity, we will discuss:

• What made the diagram effective or challenging to create?
• How do UML diagrams improve communication in game development?
• How would you refine your diagram for a professional setting?

This exercise will help you document and communicate complex game systems effectively, which is a valuable skill for both development teams and portfolio presentations.