Ed. note: App of the Week picks are now being curated by the editors of Common Sense Education [1], which helps educators find the best ed-tech tools, learn best practices for teaching with tech, and equip students with the skills they need to use technology safely and responsibly. Click here [2]to read the full app review.
The Infinite Arcade [2]
What’s It Like?
Kids and adults alike will enjoy creating their own games in The Infinite Arcade. Begin by selecting a game type such as pinball, ball and paddle, platformer, maze, or start with a blank world and create your own. Game designers then have to decide how to end their game. Will you win by entering a victory portal, gathering all the collectables, killing all the enemies, or simply staying alive? Regardless, when the player’s character or ball runs out of lives, they lose.
Price: $3
Grades: 2-5
Rating: 4/5
Pros: Students get to learn the design process, testing their game and making improvements.
Cons: No way for kids to publish their games online for others to play.
Bottom line: Design, play, and improve your own arcade games.