I know it's not quite the new year yet (depending on when this email goes out), but I want to wish you all a Happy New Year! I enjoy the new year, and like many, use it as a time to review the past years accomplishments/failures and to look forward to what may occur in the new year. This past year, the big news for us was the birth of our sixth child. We hadn't exactly planned on having six kids, but she's been a great addition to our family, and certainly keeps us busy.
For the upcoming year, one of my goals is to complete another mobile educational game for kids. I completed a simple math game a few years back and it was a ton of fun to develop. In addition to doing the design and programming, I also tried my hand at the music and art for the game. That turned out to be one of the hardest parts of the game to complete. I think it came out ok, but could be way better. If you want to check it out, look for Balloon Blast Math in the app store. It's amazing how important good art and music is to truly bring a game together. This is where I ask the Listserve community for help.
I would like to hear from all the educators, musicians and artists out there. What would you do to make an educational game better?
For the educators:
How do you see mobile games helping kids learn the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, science and music? From what you've played or seen kids play in the past, what works well and what doesn't? Have you ever had any ideas, but don't know where to start?
For the musicians:
What are some great basics skills that all young musicians must learn that could be put into a game? For other types of games, would any of you ever like to be involved in the creation process or create music for a game?
For the artists:
I need help! I can pull off some programmer art, but anything beyond that looks pretty bad. I'd love some help! Have you ever wanted to contribute art of graphic design to a game?
Anyway, if you have any suggestions or are interested in helping out, send me an email. Otherwise, have a great new year!
Pete
[email protected]
Spokane, Washington