During the late 70s and throughout the 80s, many children were discovering, for the first time, personal computers. The emergence of the PC on the market created an abundance of programs for children to try and learn about code. An aspect that has been lost to many children in today’s age of the simple interface computer, many children do not grow up trying to learn code. Rather, children are content with the advanced graphics and restricted gameplay in many video games. However, a phenomenon has occurred on the PC with many children and young adults creating modifications to their favorite games. In fact the game world encourages this practice as shown with Steam, a renowned gaming purchase market, having modifications or Mods posted on their website. These mods allow people to interact with video games and computer games and allows them to extract, or splice, into these games new codes.
In a generation where computers have been simplified with user friendly interface, video games have opened up a window for children to learn and use code on the PC. One of the best example of games that grab children’s attention and enthusiasm to learn and use code is Minecraft. This clunky Swedish game allows kids to build their own world, building weapons and changing the environment itself. However, its popularity is more than just gameplay but its advocacy for mods to its code. This has allowed children to create their own lobby and unique games. For instance, the NY times reported on such a child named Joran, 11-years old, who was inspired by the book "Maze Runner" to create his very own maze in Minecraft. He created this maze with a variety of traps. Yet, what makes this Maze so challenging was his innovation to utilize the random movements of animals to activate traps by stepping on them. This innovative game has allowed children to become creative not only with video games but in general as this skill will be utilized in other areas. Nevertheless, adding mods or being creative in a game is not only found in Minecraft but in an abundance of other games. A game of similar caliber but for an older audience is elder scrolls Skyrim. This game allows players to travel a huge world where they can create weapons, buildings and more. Recently on the PC, a coder created a modification to this game increasing the world’s area and depth of exploration. Furthermore, players have created mods to make the game more challenging or easier. While at the same time learning about code.
Clearly, video games have created an opportunity for children and young adults to learn about code and be creative in this virtual world of building blocks and adventure. These games will hopefully lead these up and coming coders to great innovation.
