Every year at this time, I begin making plans for summer. We usually allow each boy to participate in one camp or class over the break. In the past, our sons have enjoyed Lego Robotics, Tennis, Science Camp, Soccer, and Crafts programs. Then last year, my oldest boy tried something totally new: An Online Class.
Gamestar mechanic is an online community for video game builders and players. Designed for children ages 7 to 14, the online platform allows participants to work through a series of 'quests' to learn the principles of game design while also following a future-fiction story line and play related video games. As players progress through the various components, they earn the ability to incorporate new characters and features into their own game designs. This learning series focuses on deign principles - not computer coding. Therefore, a child with basic click-and-drag skills can make a computer game and share it with friends in just one session.
As explained by Gamestar; "Registering an account at Gamestar Mechanic is free and includes access to your first game design Quest, the ability to make and publish your own games, and access to the Gamestar Mechanic community."
Access to the 'Complete Quest' (with 100 quests) is just $19.99, and additional specialty-theme access passes are available for $1.99 each (which makes this a great idea for birthday or Christmas presents). It doesn't wrap neatly or fit under the tree, but it certainly offers unique and fun learning.
Here are few games created by my son:
As explained by Gamestar; "Registering an account at Gamestar Mechanic is free and includes access to your first game design Quest, the ability to make and publish your own games, and access to the Gamestar Mechanic community."
Access to the 'Complete Quest' (with 100 quests) is just $19.99, and additional specialty-theme access passes are available for $1.99 each (which makes this a great idea for birthday or Christmas presents). It doesn't wrap neatly or fit under the tree, but it certainly offers unique and fun learning.
Here are few games created by my son:
For those interested in taking the full on-line course this summer (which pairs young game designers with professionals), sign-up information is here. Geared specifically for 10 to 14 year-olds, the 6 week course provides access to the main-frame program as well as specific modules that provide more in-depth learning about game design.
Our family was invited to preview the on-line class for free last summer when it was first launched. My son had a great experience, calling it: 'Awesome!' I was happy to see him try something new and participate in a new platform.
We give it 5 stars for summer fun!
Our family was invited to preview the on-line class for free last summer when it was first launched. My son had a great experience, calling it: 'Awesome!' I was happy to see him try something new and participate in a new platform.
We give it 5 stars for summer fun!