Objective

By the end of this lesson, Maisie will have a foundational understanding of video game design principles and will have created a basic game using free game development software. She will learn to apply concepts from various subjects like math, art, and storytelling into her game design process.

Materials and Prep

• Computer with internet access
• Free game development software (e.g., Scratch, GameMaker, or Unity)
• Notebook and pen for brainstorming and planning
• Basic tutorials or guides on the chosen game development software (can be found online)

Before starting, ensure that the game development software is installed and functioning on the computer. Familiarize yourself with the basic functionalities of the software through introductory tutorials.

Activities

• Brainstorming Game Ideas: Begin by brainstorming different game concepts. What themes interest you? What type of game do you want to create (platformer, puzzle, adventure)? Write down your ideas in your notebook.
• Storyboarding: Create a storyboard for your game. Sketch out the main characters, settings, and key events. This will help you visualize your game and plan the gameplay experience.
• Designing Game Assets: Use your artistic skills to create characters, backgrounds, and objects for your game. You can draw them on paper or create digital versions using graphic design tools.
• Building the Game: Using the chosen game development software, start building your game. Add your assets, set up the game mechanics, and program the interactions. Don't forget to test your game as you go!
• Playtesting: Once your game is complete, playtest it! Ask friends or family to try it out and provide feedback. This is a crucial step in game development to improve your design.

Talking Points

• "Video game design is a blend of creativity and logic. You get to tell a story while also solving problems!"
• "Think about what makes your favorite games fun. Is it the graphics, the story, or the gameplay mechanics? Use those elements in your own game."
• "Math plays a big role in game design. From calculating scores to programming movements, understanding math can help you create better games!"
• "Art is essential in video games. Great visuals can make a game more engaging and immersive for players."
• "Testing your game is like getting a second opinion on a paper. It's important to find out what works and what doesn't from others' perspectives."