Game Design with MakeCode Arcade

MakeCode Arcade (https://arcade.makecode.com/) is developed by Microsoft. It is an online platform for children to build their own video games using Scratch-like drag-and-drop blocky interface, and their designed game can be downloaded to Meowbit: a Gameboy-like gaming console. The children can thus carry and play with their OWN games anywhere.

Microsoft MakeCode Arcade helps children build entertaining games playable in browser and Meowbit gaming console. Game-building with Microsoft MakeCode Arcade facilitates children’s understanding of:

- Core programming concepts like loops and events

- Mathematical concepts like coordinates and variables

- Concept in physics like velocity and acceleration

- Problem-solving techniques like researching skills and ‘divide and conquer’

and more...

Kittenbot Meowbit is a Gameboy-like gaming console, to which the children can download their games from Microsoft MakeCode Arcade and carry the games with them.

Children aged 7 to 10 who are interested in programming or game design. Basic understanding of block programming is desirable but not essential.

Coding101 is Microsoft and Kittenbot education partner, and has been delivering STEM classes to students at all education levels since 2015.

We have co-hosted MakeCode Arcade Competition in 2019 and 2020, and you could review the details at https://www.facebook.com/makecodearcade2020

Students need to bring their own laptops with Internet connectivity and charger.

Students can purchase Meowbit gaming console but it is not a must for the course.

Using 2 devices in class is recommended (Laptop/Desktop computer with Chrome installed for practice, phone/tablet for video conference). Students will be asked to switch on camera and mic during the online class. Online classes may be recorded for internal use such as quality assurance and training purposes.