Fundamentals of Game Development (2010) Written by Heather Chandler and Rafael Chandler. Provides the practical aspects of the processes involved in developing and completing game projects. Using examples and exercises, this book provides a hands-on approach that walks the reader through the entire process of developing a game from concept to completion. Ideal for introductory game development and game production courses the book covers history, game genre, design, story-telling, character creation, pre-production, code release, career descriptions, and more. Order from Amazon.com.
The Game Production Handbook, Second Edition (2008) Written by Heather Chandler. Includes cutting-edge advice on managing teams, tracking the production cycle, and project management. Focuses on the nuts and bolts of managing development, including defining goals, creating a plan, and managing, hiring, and motivating people effectively. Features specifics on the console submission process, software ratings, motion-capture shoots, and voice-over sessions. A finalist for the 2008 Game Developer Front Line Awards. Order from Amazon.com.
The Game Writing Handbook (2007) Written by Rafael Chandler. Provides practical information about designing storylines, creating characters, and writing dialogue. Offers field-tested techniques for organizing data, formatting documents, and presenting information. Outlines a framework for guiding the creative process, and features spreadsheets, checklists, templates, and dozens of example screenplays. A finalist for the 2007 Game Developer Front Line Awards. Order from Amazon.com.
The Project Manager's Desk Reference, Third Edition (2006) Features a new article by Heather Chandler: "Project Management in a Creative Environment". Includes information about how to plan, execute, and control a project from beginning to end. Features specifics on developing project plans using Work Breakdown Structures, PERT, CPM, and Gantt schedules. Order from Amazon.com.
Secrets of the Game Business, Second Edition (2005) Features three articles by Heather Chandler: "Localizations", "Managing Creative Chaos", and "Leadership: The Making of Happy and Effective Teams". This collection of articles, case studies, and interviews includes sections on publishers and developers, game development startups, taking a game to market, and managing game development. Order from Amazon.com.
The Game Localization Handbook (2004) Written by Heather Chandler. Provides game developers with a detailed process for planning and executing successful localizations. Includes information about creating localization-friendly code, working with third-party vendors, console submissions processes, and determining budgets, schedules, and staffing needs. A finalist for the 2005 Game Developer Front Line Awards. Order from Amazon.com.