Learning kitGrades 9-10
Computer science: game design
Make a choice game for good
Brainstorm a game that helps with a real problem, create its main character, build its decision tree in Twine, design how it looks, then playtest it with real players and improve it. Ages 14 to 16 or grades 9 and 10.
- Time
- About two hours, in two or three sittings
- Steps
- 5 steps, 2 of them in Twine
- You need
- A computer or Chromebook. Printing is optional: every step works on screen. No account needed.
The 5 steps
- 1Brainstorm a game for good scenarioRead and quizGames can do good: teach a skill, change how people see a problem, or show them what they can do. Start with a problem you care about.
- 2Create a characterPlan itA player cares about a game when they care about its main character. Create the character whose choices the player makes.
- 3Build a decision treeIn TwineNow build the game's branches in Twine. Every passage is one screen; every link is a choice the player can make.
- 4Design your gameIn TwineMake it a game people want to play: a name, a look that fits the subject, and an opening that pulls the player in.
- 5Playtest and iterateWith othersDesigners find out what works by watching people play. Playtest your game, then improve it from what you saw.
Work on a computer. The apps need a keyboard and a bigger screen than a phone: a laptop, desktop or Chromebook. You can pay here and open the emailed link on the computer.
One learner
Unlock the kit, $5
- All 5 steps, worked on screen, with a lesson you can print if you like paper
- Twine activities that check the work as it is done
- A numbered certificate with a page of the learner's own work: your game ideas, your character and your playtest notes
Have a discount code?
Co-ops and classes: unlock it for a group
One payment and one code. Each learner types the code to unlock the kit on their own computer, and gets their own certificate at the end. Your pack page shows who has started and finished.
See a sample certificate (PDF) · Already paid? Find your link