STEM Video Game Challenge (JOURNEY)

STEM Video Game Challenge (JOURNEY)

1. Challenge

   • Design a picture inspired by the 2025 game design theme: "Journey"

2. journey

   • We are all traveling from one place to another, and from the past to the future: growing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Create a digital image where ‘journey’ is the key idea.
   • overcoming hardships faced in the wild, emotionally and spirutaully, as well as problem solving througjout the journey

3. indegenous astronomy

   • This theme combines traditional knowledge with modern astronomy. It uses warm earth tones and nature-inspired visuals. The design emphasizes the connection between land, sky, and cultural significance.

4. coding

   • thonny
     • Thonny is a user-friendly integrated development environment (IDE) specifically designed for beginners learning Python programming. It features a simple layout with an interactive Python shell, a built-in debugger for step-by-step code execution, and a variable explorer that visualizes variables and their values, enhancing understanding of concepts like scope and data types. Thonny also offers helpful error messages, code completion, and syntax highlighting to make coding more accessible. It supports multiple platforms and is ideal for use in educational settings, self-learning, and workshops. Overall, Thonny provides a supportive environment that encourages experimentation and helps novices build a solid foundation in programming.
   • arcade
     • Arcade is a Python library for creating 2D video games, designed to be user-friendly for both beginners and experienced developers. It features an intuitive API for managing sprites, sound, collision detection, and graphics. With extensive documentation and examples, Arcade simplifies game development and supports multiple platforms, making it ideal for anyone interested in learning and creating games.
   • shapes
     • In the Arcade library, shapes like rectangles, circles, polygons, and lines are fundamental for creating visuals in 2D games. Each shape can be easily drawn using built-in functions, allowing for customization in color, size, and position. This simplicity helps developers enhance their game's graphics and create engaging visual elements seamlessly.

5. Existing Artworks Analysis

   • Studying existing pieces that blend Indigenous astronomy themes with modern interpretations. These works show traditional patterns, constellation stories, and cultural connections to the night sky.

6. Visual Design Approach

   • Using sunset-inspired color palettes with horizontal bands in warm tones. The design will incorporate traditional patterns while staying within technical constraints for the game environment.

7. Journey Theme Elements

   • Representing travel, adventure, and progress through traditional storytelling. The theme explores personal growth, exploration, and movement through both physical and spiritual landscapes.

8. Color Palette Strategy

   • Using warm colors with gradients to capture journey themes. The palette includes oranges, warm blues, and earth tones that evoke movement, energy, and connection to traditional landscapes.

9. Thorny Development Platform

   • Python IDE for beginners and intermediate users. Provides a user-friendly coding environment with helpful tools. Supports the required platform needs for the project development.

10. Arcade Library Features

    • Python library for creating graphics and interactive applications. Enables 2D game development with simple, clear code. Useful for educational projects and rapid prototyping.

11. Shape Implementation

    • Shapes form the foundation of the visual design. Each shape represents different elements: triangles for direction, circles for unity, and complex forms for storytelling components.