Arcade Game Design
Where creativity meets coding - and kids become game designers!
Step into the world of Arcade Game Design, where students learn to design, code, and play their very own retro-style games - from pixel racers to maze adventures! Using visual coding and game design platforms, young innovators explore logic, physics, art, and storytelling while bringing their unique game ideas to life.
This course is built for students ages 8–13 who love video games and want to understand how games are made. Each session balances hands-on design, collaborative challenges, and STEM learning through play - keeping kids engaged while building critical 21st-century skills.
What will students learn
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🎨 Game Design Principles: Levels, characters, animation, and storytelling
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💻 Logic & Coding: Conditional statements, scoring systems, player controls
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🧠 STEM Concepts: Motion, speed, coordinates, and basic physics in games
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🕹️ Creative Problem Solving: Debugging and refining games for fun & challenge
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🌟 Showcase Finale: Students demo their finished arcade games to parents in a mini “STEMcade” showcase!
Why it matters !
Animation builds more than just art skills - it nurtures critical thinking, creativity, sequencing, coding, and communication. Students discover how digital animation connects to careers in:
🎬 Film & entertainment
🎮 Game design
📱 App development
🌐 Digital marketing
By creating their own projects, kids develop confidence as digital creators while gaining hands-on experience with tools used in the modern creative industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does my child need any prior experience with coding or game design?
No prior experience is needed! Our Arcade Game Design program is beginner-friendly and uses visual coding platforms that make it easy for kids to learn logic and design while having fun. Every student progresses at their own pace with plenty of instructor support.
Q2: What age group is this class best suited for?
The program is designed for students ages 8–13. We group students by age and experience so everyone can learn, build, and collaborate at the right level.
Q3: What tools or software do students use?
Students use block-based coding platforms along with design elements inspired by classic arcade games. All equipment and software are provided at The STEM Lab.
Q4: Will my child create a real playable game?
Absolutely! Each student will design, code, and test a fully playable game by the end of the program. They’ll even have a chance to showcase their creation during our Arcade Showcase Day, where parents can try out the games.
Q5: How does this program support STEM learning?
Students learn foundational STEM concepts like logic, physics, and problem-solving, combined with art and storytelling - turning play into real learning. It strengthens computational thinking and creativity in one engaging experience.
Q6: Can my child continue game design after this course?
Yes! This course builds the foundation for future programs like Advanced Game Design, AI in Gaming, and Python for Game Creators. Students can continue their learning journey right here at The STEM Lab.
Q8: Where is the program offered?
At The STEM Lab Innovation Hub in Elgin, SC, and through school partnerships.