Game Wizards

Advanced 2D Games with Python
and
PixelPAD

Interactive course designed for those eager to dive into the world of game development while learning Python programming. Python - a versatile, easy-to-learn, and powerful language - is increasingly becoming popular among developers, and what could be more fun than learning it through video game creation? This course taps into students creativity and curiosity, guiding them step-by-step in mastering Python programming through PixelPAD - a user-friendly platform for game development.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the fundamentals of Python programming, including variables, data structures, loops, conditional statements, functions, object oriented programming and more.
  2. Design and create innovative 2D video games using Python and PixelPAD's user-friendly libraries and features.
  3. Implement game mechanics, such as character movement, collision detection, in-game sound, multi-level and multi-player capabilities.
  4. Debug and optimize Python code for efficient and smooth game performance.

Course Structure:

This course is divided into several dynamic modules to create a comprehensive learning experience. Each module creates a new game, gradually advancing your skills in Python programming and game development. A mix of video lectures, hands-on coding exercises, exciting game challenges will ensure that students are actively learning every step of the way.

Module 1: Platformer Game

  • At the end of this course students will have coded fully working Platformer game, containing 3 levels, 4 types of enemies, sounds, animations, and infinite room for expansion!
  • The final project can be found here: https://pixelpad.io/app/dpoqtxqlpsr/

Module 2: Action RPG

  • At the end of this course students will have coded a fully working Role Playing Game game, containing 3 types of enemies, 2 pieces of equipment, a puzzle, a boss encounter, and infinite room for expansion!
  • The final project can be found here: https://pixelpad.io/app/lkistitrqqu/

Module 3: Castle Clash

  • At the end of this course, we will have coded our fully working and easily scalable Clash Royale like game, containing: two cards, two enemies, a combat system, game over and game win conditions, a mana system, and sound.
  • The final project can be found here: https://pixelpad.io/app/eqowgozvnbf

Module 4: Fruit Slashers

  • At the end of this course we will have coded our fully working Fruit Slashers game, containing 5 fruits, a bomb, main menu and game over screens, sound, stage timer, screen shake, score, and animations.
  • The final project can be found here: https://pixelpad.io/app/mgkbsyjctff/

Module 5: Space Shooters

  • At the end of this course, we will have coded a full Space Shooter game containing a player, infinite enemies, power ups, different game screens, score, and sound.
  • The final project can be found here: https://pixelpad.io/app/qkcmlkmssyc/

Final Project:

Towards the end of the course, you will bring together all the Python programming and PixelPAD game development skills you've learned to create an original video game. You can work individually or collaborate with other learners, giving you the opportunity to hone your programming abilities, showcase your creativity, and add an impressive project to your portfolio.

Required Skills: Good understanding of coding concepts learned in  using Scratch and robotics courses.

Class Format: Online classes are individual student 30 min/class. In-person classes are group sessions, 1-hour for each class.
Course Duration: Flexible Start Date, students work on their own pace.
Platform: PixelPAD, Python programming
Required Equipment: Laptop computer
Cost: $37.50 per lesson

For financial assistance please see our Student Financial Support Program.

course Description

Interactive course designed for those eager to dive into the world of game development while learning Python programming. Python – a versatile, easy-to-learn, and powerful language – is increasingly becoming popular among developers, and what could be more fun than learning it through video game creation? This course taps into students creativity and curiosity, guiding them step-by-step in mastering Python programming through PixelPAD – a user-friendly platform for game development. 

Learning Resources

Online Resources

class schedule 

Assignments and projects will be demonstrated by students. 
Asynchronous – Students can progress through the course at their own pace, access to online material.
In-person – 1-hour sessions guided by an instructor.

Learning outcomes

Understand the fundamentals of Python programming, including variables, data structures, loops, conditional statements, functions, object oriented programming and more.
Design and create innovative 2D video games using Python and PixelPAD’s user-friendly libraries and features.
Implement game mechanics, such as character movement, collision detection, in-game sound, multi-level and multi-player capabilities.
Debug and optimize Python code for efficient and smooth game performance.

graduate attributes

A knowledge base for computer science – knowledge of programming concepts.
Problem analysis – analyze code and develop computational thinking.
Investigation – know how to debug a problem in code.
Design – Develop video games.

Our first choice is to take the classes in-person as it allows for peer-to-peer interaction and learning. If this is not possible, we only provide online classes in one-on-one format with a teacher because online learning is challenging, and children need full teacher support. In our experience, online group classes are not an effective learning environment for children; therefore, we do not offer them. We strive to provide the best learning experience for your child based on our applied educational research.