29
Nov

Want to Create Video Games? Start by Learning the Basics of Programming

Editor's Note: This post was written for Computer Science Education Week. Learn more about Computer Science Education Week and how you can get involved here

Video games provide exciting and entertaining experiences for millions of people around the world. The production of video games is now bigger than those of film and music—and growing each year. If you’re interested in designing and developing your own games, there’s never been a better time to start learning! There are now many learning opportunities available for students and teachers online.

The video game development process begins with programming. 

Programming, or coding, is the underlying practice behind creating games, applications, websites, and a wide array of other digital products. To start programming, you’ll need to learn a language—not one that lets you speak to other humans, but one that a computer can understand. Most programming languages use the same basic structure and building blocks, so once you learn one, you’ll have a much easier time with others.

For me, what’s exciting about programming is that I can create anything I can imagine. Using simple logic, I can build a world of my own design. I can take my ideas and make them real. I can create experiences that can be enjoyed by a wide and diverse audience. I can change the way people think about the world. And so can you.

You can start by building your own game using Scratch! Or you can use our game below to remix your own

Use the up and down arrows to collect all of the tasty cheeseburgers but watch out for the turtles!

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About the Author

Reuben Brenner-Adams
Digital Media Intern

Reuben Brenner-Adams is completing his fifth and final year in the Game Design & Development BS/MS program at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Reuben has created both analog and digital games that will be included in the SSEC's K-8 science curriculum. Specifically, he worked on a computer game to teach 5th graders about global water trade and a board game to help 3rd graders understand what happens when an animal's habitat undergoes change. Reuben also worked with SSEC curriculum developers to design guides and lessons that go along with the games.