Use of cinematographic elements and graphic design elements in educational three-dimensional computer games prepared for pre-school children (Aged 3-6)

This study aims to examine educational game designs that contribute to the cognitive skills of preschool children and include cinematographic game narratives, in line with the data obtained during the thesis writing process. A literature review was made and content analysis technique was used in the formation of the conceptual framework of the study. Starting from the mobile game opening graphics, text analysis has been made for cinematic and graphic design elements. In the conceptual framework section, methods developed by experts in child development are mentioned, cinematography and graphic design concepts, related definitions and a digital game opening design and game interface design are made. Teaching with games, which is one of the educational methods for preschool children, is one of the opportunities offered by the digital world. The generation born into the digital age knows the virtual world both by experiencing the real world and by using the technological tools of the period. It is possible to learn while having fun with various games on devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones. Mobile applications, which have the idea of making the best use of the time spent, are prepared according to the digital environment by application developers by transforming education and training methods. In this context, three mobile games with three-dimensional animation series were selected to be analyzed in the findings and comments section. "The Adventures of Thomas and Friends!", "Baby Panda's School Bus - Let's Drive!" and "Masha and the Bear: Good Night!" The free parts of the mentioned games have been examined within the scope. It is seen that cinematography and graphic design elements are used in mobile games designed for preschool children in the education category. It has been concluded that the use of interaction serving the game scenario is guided when cinematic narratives, cinematographic elements and graphic design elements are used together, and these elements are effective in the playability of mobile games prepared for preschool children.