Bradenton | Ages 10 - 14 | Game Studio: Design, Build & Play

Course Overview: Game Studio - Design, Build, Play
In this hands-on STEAM course, students create original board games, card games, or strategy games while learning about game mechanics, design, testing and product development. 

Students will explore the science and psychology behind games while learning how designers create engaging experiences for players. Through brainstorming, sketching, prototyping, testing, and redesigning, students will apply the engineering design process to develop their own gaming experiences. Along the way, students will learn how successful games use creativity, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and player-centered design. They will analyze popular games, identify what makes them enjoyable, and apply those concepts to their own creations.

Using makerspace technologies such as 3D printers or Glowforge laser cutters, students will design and manufacture custom game components, game boards, cards, tokens, and other physical elements for their projects. Students will also practice technical writing by creating professional game instructions and marketing materials just like real game publishers.

Throughout the course, students will work individually and in teams to develop important real-world skills including communication, collaboration, project management, creative thinking, and constructive feedback. Each game will be tested, refined, and improved through peer playtesting and design reviews.

The course culminates with students showcasing their finished games in our course Game Expo!

Students won't just play games—they'll learn how to think like real game designers, engineers, creators, and entrepreneurs.


Students Will:

• Apply the Engineering Design Process
• Develop original game concepts
• Analyze what makes games engaging and fun
• Design rules, challenges, and player experiences
• Create prototypes using physical materials and digital tools
• Use 3D printing and Glowforge technology to manufacture game components
• Write professional game instructions and technical documentation
• Practice collaboration, communication, and leadership skills
• Conduct playtesting and use feedback to improve designs

Why Parents Love it: 

• Encourages creativity and critical thinking.
• Builds writing and technology skills aligned with Florida standards.
• Fosters confidence and develops key soft skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, problem solving & more! 

Step Up Direct Provider | PEP Accepted
SCF Youth Enrichment accepts Step Up and PEP scholarship funds for eligible programs. Families must register on both Step Up for Students and the SCF website. Use the code StepUpSCF26 at checkout to reduce payment to $0. SCF reconciles class rosters with Step Up and PEP registrations and invoices after the first class. Step Up pays SCF directly; families are not reimbursed.
 
Release Form Required
Upon registration, you will automatically receive our required release form. This form must be completed before your child may participate on campus without parent or guardian supervision, so we ask that you complete it promptly to avoid delays on the first day of class. Only one release form is needed per child, even if they are enrolled in multiple weeks or programs.

If you experience any issues completing the form electronically or need a paper copy, please contact us at youthenrichment@scf.edu and we will be happy to email one to you. Completed paper forms may be scanned and returned in advance, or you may notify us ahead of time if you plan to bring a hard copy on the first day.