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oin us for a day of game design filled with challenge and creativity! Games for Change is hosting a game jam which challenges students to create social impact games around the topic of Automated Communities 2050. From robo-taxis and driverless cars, to Hyperloops and jetpacks, many believe that automation is the key to a better future. Robots are becoming increasingly present in our daily lives, from social robots in hospitals, automated pharmacists, drones that deliver packages and hydroponic farms that enhance food production! We pose the question, how can automation and robotics create more efficient, safe and sustainable communities in the year 2050? We will utilize time at our first game jam to think about how these technologies can improve mobility, safety, equity, public health and access to resources in your community.
During the jam, you’ll have an opportunity to learn more about this topic with design experts from the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). In addition, professional game designers will teach you the basics of game design and guide you through the process of creating your game prototypes in both non-digital and digital form. Whether you’re a seasoned game designer or a complete newbie, you’ll be able to develop your skills and make great games that can make the world a better place!
ABOUT THE GAME JAMS:
This is the first of four game jams Games for Change is holding this school year as part of the 2018-2019 G4C Student Challenge program in NYC. The events are free and open to all middle and high public school students in NYC. Each game jam focuses on a particular theme, with activities facilitated by game designers, theme content experts and organizations leading the way in STEM, game design and social impact. Through the game jams, students get to meet professional game designers, investigate the designated theme with help from content experts and civic leaders, and develop their game-making skills.
ABOUT THE G4C STUDENT CHALLENGE:
The G4C Student Challenge is a digital game design program and competition that invites middle and high school students to create original games about issues impacting their communities. The 2018-2019 program is running in NYC, Atlanta, Detroit, and Los Angeles. Students can submit their original games to the Challenge competition in Spring 2019 for the chance to gain national recognition and win awesome prizes including games, technology and a $1,000 Grand Prize Scholarship. Finalist games will be exhibited at an awards ceremony and winners announced during an awards ceremony in June 2019.
For more information about the G4C Student Challenge, visit our website: www.gamesforchange.org/studentchallenge.
FAQs
Q: How can I contact the event organizer?
A: Please email studentchallenge@gamesforchange.org with any questions about the event.
Q: Who can attend the event?
A: This event is free and open to all middle and high public school students in NYC.
Q: Do I need to bring a laptop to the event?
A: Students are not required to bring laptops to the event. All technology will be provided.
Q: What platform or programming language will we be using to make our games?
A: First, we’ll focus on non-digital and make paper prototypes of our game ideas. Then, we’ll focus on digital using Scratch, a free platform for kids to make games, animations, and other interactive art. Scratch newbies are welcome, as are seasoned pros and everything between!
Q: I’ve already begun my Student Challenge game. Can I come to the jam to work on it?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to bring your game, even if it’s on a different platform or another theme than what the jam is focusing on.
Q: Do I need to bring my lunch with me?
A: You do not need to pack a lunch. Complimentary lunch (and snacks!) will be provided for student attendees.