Gamestar Mechanic: Online, software. Ages 7-14.
Free basic version, $19.95 full version
Registering an account at Gamestar Mechanic is free and includes access to your first game design Quest, the ability to make and publish your own games, and access to the Gamestar Mechanic community. “Addison’s Complete Quest” is our full introduction to game design and is now available for a one-time cost of $19.95. School accounts for $2 per student.
Gamestar Mechanic is a game and community designed to teach kids the principles of game design and systems thinking in a highly engaging environment. It is designed for 7- to 14-year-olds but is open to everyone. We’ve included features in Gamestar that make it useful for kids playing the game on their own or with family members at home, as well as in moderated and educational settings.