Junior Game Jam

This is a high level overview of our middle school programming camp inspired by the Global Game Jam.

Day 1: Introduction to Game Design and Concept Development

Objective: Introduce game design basics and start brainstorming game ideas.

• Welcome to the game jam! Discuss the rules, teamwork, and expectations.

• Introduce key game design concepts: game genres, mechanics, and storytelling.

• Form teams and begin brainstorming game ideas (story, gameplay, characters).

• Draft a basic Game Design Document (GDD), outlining the game concept, core mechanics, and initial ideas for art and sound.

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Day 2: Learning Game Development Tools and Prototyping

Objective: Learn how to use game development software and start building a game prototype.

• Introduce beginner-friendly game development tools (e.g., Scratch, GameMaker).

• Create simple gameplay elements like movement, object interactions, and basic mechanics.

• Start integrating basic art assets (characters, backgrounds) into the game.

• Conduct initial playtesting of your prototype and get feedback for improvement.

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Day 3: Game Enhancement, Polish, and Sound Design

Objective: Enhance your game with polished mechanics, sound, and graphics.

• Refine your game by fixing bugs and improving gameplay features.

• Work on level design, user interface, and progressing the game's challenge.

• Introduce sound design, adding effects and music to the game.

• Playtest the enhanced version of the game with sound and polish, making final tweaks.

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Day 4: Finalizing the Game, Presentation, and Showcase

Objective: Finalize the game and prepare for the showcase presentation.

• Fix any last-minute bugs and make final refinements to the game.

• Prepare a presentation to explain the game’s concept, mechanics, and development process.

• Share your game with the group, showcasing gameplay and the design process.

• Celebrate everyone's hard work with a fun awards ceremony and peer voting.

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Materials Needed:

• Computers or tablets with game development software.

• Art and sound tools for creating game assets.

• Projector for showcasing games.

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Key Outcomes:

• Completed game prototypes.

• Hands-on experience with game development tools.

• Collaboration, problem-solving, and presentation skills.