A video game design camp is a program or workshop designed to teach children and teenagers the skills and techniques required to develop their own video games. These camps can be offered as part of summer camps or after-school programs and are led by professionals in the video game industry.
This is where participants learn various aspects of game design, such as character design, world-building, storytelling, and coding. They also get the opportunity to learn about the video game industry, its trends, and the various career paths available in this field.
What Is a Video Game Design Summer Camp?
Enrolling in a video game design camp is more than just a chance to learn about game design, it’s an opportunity to cultivate skills that will serve your child for life.
By taking part in a video game design camp, your child will be immersed in a structured learning environment that fosters your:
- Creativity;
- Problem-solving;
- Critical thinking skills.
Working with peers who share the same interests will allow the child to collaborate, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections that will last beyond the camp itself.
Video game design camps also offer valuable life skills that are applicable far beyond the video game industry. Thus, participants will learn about:
- Teamwork;
- Time management;
- Communication;
- All essential skills for success in any field.
Additionally, exploring your interests and passions through a video game design camp can ignite a spark that leads to a lifelong hobby or even a career path.
Top 10 Video Game Design Summer Camps
If you want your child to play video games in a meaningful way, there are many educational programs that help turn a fun hobby into skills that will be extremely useful in real life. For example, it gives them the opportunity to learn how to create their own video games or mobile games.
The curriculum for a video game design summer camp can vary depending on the program and age group of participants. Some programs focus on entry-level skills and an introduction to video game design, while other camps may offer more advanced courses for advanced students.
1. Coder Kids
Empowering the next generation of tech-savvy individuals, Coder Kids is an incredible educational program that teaches children the ins and outs of coding and computer science. Designed for kids between the ages of 5 and 17, the program offers a diverse range of courses and classes that are tailored to meet the needs of each child.
The Coder Kids curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Programming languages like Python;
- Web development;
- Game development;
- Robotics, etc.
With hands-on and interactive classes, children get to learn by doing and experimenting, allowing them to unleash their creativity and explore their imaginations.
But more than just learning how to code, the ultimate goal of the Coder Kids program is to inspire children to pursue careers in technology. By giving them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this field, Coder Kids empowers children to make a meaningful impact in the world of tech.
2. Game Worlds Camp
Created by game developers, Game Worlds Camp innovative program offers kids and teens a unique opportunity to explore the world of video game design and development.
Here’s what your child can learn at Game Worlds Camp:
- Video game design, from creating characters to building worlds;
- The artistic aspects of game creation, including storytelling and visual design;
- Technical aspects of game development, such as programming and game engines;
- How to create a game from the concept stage to the final launch.
With a new topic to explore each week, your child will stay engaged and excited throughout the program. And with lectures hosted by real game developers and access to industry-standard software, they’ll get a truly immersive experience that will help them build real-world skills.
3. Digital Media Academy
Digital Media Academy (DMA) offers a dynamic learning experience for students interested in game design, 3D modeling, animation, and programming.
Here are some key facts about DMA:
- DMA camps are available in various locations across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom;
- DMA’s game design courses provide students with comprehensive knowledge of game design by covering topics such as 2D and 3D game design, as well as programming languages such as Python and C#, and game engines like Unity and Unreal;
- DMA is unique in its use of professional-level tools and equipment. Students have access to top-of-the-line software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, and Logic Pro, and high-end equipment including Mac computers and Wacom tablets.
DMA’s hands-on approach allows students to develop their skills by working on projects using the same tools as industry professionals, giving them a head start in their careers.
All in all, it’s a leading educational institution that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of digital media, using industry-standard tools and equipment to prepare them for careers in the digital arts.
4. FunTech Camps
FunTech Camps is a technology and coding camp that offers children and teens aged 7 to 18 an opportunity to learn about technology and coding in a fun and engaging environment. The camp’s primary objective is to inspire young people to explore their interests in technology and help them develop technical skills and creativity.
The camp offers various courses, including:
- Coding;
- Game development;
- Robotics;
- Digital design.
Each course is taught by experienced instructors who are experts in their field, passionate about technology and education. FunTech Camps are usually held during school vacations and last 1 or 2 weeks, depending on the course.
FunTech Camps believe that learning about technology and coding can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Their goal is to help young people develop technical skills and creativity in a fun and supportive environment. By attending FunTech Camps, children can learn new skills, make new friends and have an enjoyable experience while learning about technology and coding.
5. Indiana University Game Development Camps
The Game Development Camps at Indiana University (IU) provide an excellent opportunity for students to delve into the study of game design and development. The camps are designed to be immersive experiences where students can learn about game development and gain hands-on experience.
Here are some key features of the Game Development Camps at IU:
- The curriculum covers important topics such as programming, game art and design, 3D modeling, and game engines;
- The camps are led by experienced instructors who are experts in their field;
- Participants work in teams to create their own games from start to finish;
- IU’s Game Development Camps are open to students of all ages and backgrounds.
By attending such camps, students can gain valuable skills in game design and development, as well as an understanding of the various career paths available in the game industry.
Overall, Indiana Game Development Camps offer an exciting and educational experience for students interested in game design and development.
7. National Computer Camps
If you’re looking for an exciting and educational summer camp experience for your child, consider National Computer Camps (NCC). This is one of the oldest and longest-running computer camps in the world. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Michael Zabinski, NCC offers a wide range of programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Here’s what you need to know:
- NCC offers programs in coding, robotics, game development, 3D animation, and digital art;
- The camps are staffed by experienced instructors who are passionate about technology and teaching;
- The learning approach at NCC is hands-on, allowing students to apply what they learn to real-world situations.
NCC’s summer camps are an excellent opportunity for children and teens to gain valuable computer skills while having fun and making new friends. By attending NCC, students can also explore potential career paths in the technology industry.
Overall, National Computer Camps provides a supportive and engaging environment for students to learn about computer technology.
7. Game Camp Nation
Game Camp Nation offers exciting summer programs designed to teach kids and teens how to design, create, and code their own video games. Founded in 2011 and based in Connecticut, USA, Game Camp Nation has expanded to include locations in New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Here are some key features of Game Camp Nation:
- The company’s programs cover a range of video game development topics, including programming languages, game engines, game mechanics, storytelling, character design, and game testing;
- The programs are designed to keep kids entertained and engaged while learning valuable skills in computer programming and game development;
- Many campers have gone on to careers in the game industry or other technology-related fields after attending Game Camp Nation programs;
- Game Camp Nation’s summer camps are a great opportunity for kids and teens to explore their interests in video game development while making new friends and having fun.
By attending these programs, students can gain valuable skills that can be applied to future careers in technology. Game Camp Nation provides a supportive and engaging environment for students to learn about video game development.
8. iD Tech Video Game Camp
iD Tech is a technology education company that provides video game camps for kids and teens, providing a unique learning experience that combines fun and education.
Here are some key features of iD Tech’s video game camps:
- Students can learn about game engines, programming languages, and graphic design tools used in video game development;
- The camps also focus on teaching important problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills that can be applied in future careers and everyday life;
- iD Tech’s video game camps are a great opportunity for young people to explore their interests in video game development while also gaining valuable skills that can help them succeed in the future.
The company’s instructors are experienced and passionate about technology and education, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction and a supportive learning environment.
9. CodeWizardsHQ
If you’re looking for a comprehensive and interactive online coding school for your child, CodeWizardsHQ can be an excellent option. This online coding school provides live, instructor-led coding classes for students between the ages of 8 and 18.
Here’s what you can expect from CodeWizardsHQ:
- A comprehensive curriculum covering a variety of programming languages including Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Java;
- Small class sizes of 2-3 students which allow for personalized attention from experienced coding instructors;
- Intensive coding camps during summer and winter breaks that help students develop coding skills in a short period of time;
- CodeWizardsHQ’s experienced teachers are experts in teaching coding to young students, providing a supportive and engaging learning environment.
All in all, CodeWizardsHQ is an excellent option for parents who want to provide their children with a high-quality coding education from the comfort of their own homes. With a comprehensive curriculum, personalized attention, and intensive coding camps, CodeWizardsHQ is a great place for young coders to learn and develop their skills.
10. PlanetBravo
PlanetBravo is an inspiring educational technology company that focuses on providing innovative computer science programs to schools and students. Two educators founded the company back in 2002, as they realized a gap in the education system that required quality technology education in schools. Today, the company has grown and provides various in-person and online programs to hundreds of schools in California, catering to students of all ages.
PlanetBravo offers a vast range of programs to help students explore their interests in technology and enhance their skills in the field, which include:
- Coding classes;
- Robotics workshops;
- Courses in video game development;
- Digital art classes.
Summer camps offered by PlanetBravo are an excellent opportunity for students to dive deeper into technology and enhance their knowledge and skills while having fun.
Conclusion
Video game design camps are immersive educational programs where participants learn how to create video games from scratch. The curriculum is designed to cover various aspects of video game design, such as game mechanics, level design, game art, programming, and sound design. Participants get a chance to:
- Explore their passion for video games;
- Learn new skills;
- Work collaboratively in a fun and creative environment.
By the end of the program, participants will have created their own video game and gained valuable experience in the field of game design. These camps are perfect for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the video game industry or just looking for a fun way to learn new skills.