Learn How to Create a Video Game at NYFA
In the 2-Week Kids Game Summer Camp, students get to create their own games via a fun and intensive exploration of digital game development. Students use the leading game engine program – Unity. They get exposure to leading 2D art tools in Week 1 and leading 3D tools (Maya) in Week 2.
All software used in the program is free for students. Kids learn the fundamental elements of the craft of game design – specifically prototyping, play testing, and iteration – by doing it themselves. They learn how to tell stories with playable systems and how to make engaging interaction loops and play mechanics. Course is taught by professional game developers and includes step by step tutorials.
Program Description
Camp Name: 2-Week Kids Game Design Camp – Online
Upon completion of the 2-week summer game program, a graduation ceremony will be held that will include a showcase of the students’ work. Students leave the course with a small portfolio of projects including their own playable 2D game (from week one) and their own playable 3D game (from week two).
Class Descriptions
Game Design - Game types, roles, platforms, player experience, prototyping, iterative design and user experience flowcharts.
Coding - Using Unity to write and implement code for a 3D, first – or third-person racing game (Unity is free for students).
Narrative Design - Concept and character development, dialogue writing and character voice, object-oriented storytelling, promotional copywriting.
Art – 3D Maya basics, modeling, texturing and using Mixamo for animation (both of these programs are free for students),
Industry – Target audience & branding your game to reach your target Players.
Campers will leave the program with:
- Playable digital game demo with original 3D assets.
To learn more about NYFA’s camps, visit the NYFA Camp Brochure.
Requirements
Students will need a computer capable of running the Unity game engine (click here for Unity Editor system requirements -parents only need to worry about having a computer).
Unity Personal is free for students – click here to learn more.
For 2-Week program only:
- Maya program (free trial version) – The Maya Free Trial version provides the software free for 30 days.
- If students have a computer that meets the Unity System Requirements then they will be able to run Maya.
This is an online camp and students attend from home. For the best experience, we recommend that students have a strong, reliable internet connection, as well as a quiet place to work.
