Camp Game gives teens insight, hands-on experience in developing games

What if instead of just playing video games during summer break, teens had a creative outlet where they could learn how to develop and design those video games? Thanks to Camp Game, they can do just that. 

Camp Game, sponsored by the College of Technology and Innovation (CTI) at ASU’s Polytechnic campus, is an intensive video game creation, visualization and production course offered to both middle and high school students during the summer months. 

“Camp Game is in its sixth year, and is one of the most comprehensive, yet exciting, program offerings in video game development,” said Ashish Amresh, assistant professor and Camp Game director. “It teaches the students team work and stresses the importance of understanding the technology, science and math concepts behind gaming.”

Over the last six years, camp gamers have created  games for the PC ranging from simple science based games to complete 3D games using the award winning Unreal game engine. Middle school students, entering grades 6-8 in fall 2012, can take one or two week classes in June at ASU’s Polytechnic campus. High school students can choose from two class offerings, lasting two weeks during June and July at SkySong in Scottsdale. 

“The hands-on approach at Camp Game means that camp gamers aren’t simply sitting in a classroom listening to a lecture,” said Amresh. “They will gain a strong understanding of video game production, but most importantly, have fun while doing it.”

Students work with a faculty experienced in the game industry to understand concepts and create game prototypes using the latest software, hardware and development tools. The faculty who run the program have more than 30 years of professional game design and programming experience among them. 

“Camp Game is a creative outlet for young gamers,” said Amresh. “We encourage them to think beyond just playing the game by exploring and creating the technology that goes on behind the scenes.”

At the end of the course, students are able to share what they have created with their family and friends at an open house. 

For information about classes, schedule and to register, visit http://interactive.asu.edu/campgame or call Kristyn Pineda at 480.727.1312. Space is limited and available on a first-come-first-serve basis. 

For information about additional course offerings for middle and high school students through the College of Technology and Innovation’s Summer Academy, visit https://technology.asu.edu/ctiacademy.