3 Fun Examples of Creating Simple Games with Scratch

Explore three engaging examples of creating simple games with Scratch, perfect for kids learning coding!
By Taylor

Introduction to Scratch Game Development

Scratch is a fantastic platform for kids and beginners to learn coding in a fun and interactive way. By creating games, children can develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and a deeper understanding of programming concepts. Below are three diverse examples of creating simple games with Scratch that are perfect for young coders!

Example 1: Catch the Falling Apples

This game is perfect for introducing basic programming concepts like motion and control. The objective is to catch falling apples with a basket.

In this game, you’ll create a sprite for the basket and apples. The apples will fall from the top of the screen, and the player will move the basket left and right to catch them.

  1. Open Scratch and create a new project.
  2. Add a new sprite for the basket. You can either draw one using the Scratch editor or upload an image.
  3. Add a new sprite for the apple. Again, you can draw an apple or use the Scratch library.

  4. Set the apple to fall:

    • Select the apple sprite and add the following code:
      • When green flag clicked
      • Go to x: (random position) y: 180 (start above the screen)
      • Forever
        • Change y by -5 (this makes it fall)
        • If < touching (basket) > then
          • Play sound (choose a sound)
          • Change score by 1
          • Go to x: (random position) y: 180

  5. Set up the basket movement:

    • Select the basket sprite and add:
      • When left arrow key pressed
        • Change x by -10
      • When right arrow key pressed
        • Change x by 10

Notes: You can customize the speed of the apples or the size of the basket. Consider adding levels or different types of fruits to catch for extra fun!

Example 2: Maze Runner

This game challenges players to navigate a maze while avoiding obstacles. It’s a great way to teach about sensing and collision detection.

In this game, you will create a sprite for the player and design a simple maze.

  1. Create a new project in Scratch.

  2. Design your maze:

    • Use the backdrop editor to draw a maze layout. Ensure the paths are wide enough for the player sprite.
  3. Add a player sprite: Choose or create a character for the player.

  4. Set up the movement controls:

    • Select the player sprite and add:
      • When up arrow key pressed
        • Change y by 10
      • When down arrow key pressed
        • Change y by -10
      • When right arrow key pressed
        • Change x by 10
      • When left arrow key pressed
        • Change x by -10

  5. Add collision detection:

    • Under the player sprite, add:
      • If < touching (color of maze walls) > then
        • Go to x: (start position) y: (start position)

Notes: You can add a timer to increase the challenge or collect items along the way. Consider changing the maze design for different levels of difficulty.

Example 3: Virtual Pet

In this game, players create and take care of a virtual pet. This example introduces concepts of variables and user interaction.

  1. Start a new Scratch project.
  2. Choose a pet sprite: You can select a cat, dog, or any fun character.
  3. Create variables: Make variables for ‘Hunger’ and ‘Happiness.’ Set their starting values to 100.

  4. Add buttons for actions: Create buttons for feeding and playing with the pet.

    • For the feed button, add:
      • When this sprite clicked
        • Change Hunger by -20
        • Change Happiness by +10
        • If < Hunger < 0 > then
          • Set Hunger to 0
    • For the play button, add:
      • When this sprite clicked
        • Change Happiness by +20
        • Change Hunger by +10
        • If < Happiness > 100 > then
          • Set Happiness to 100
  5. Display pet status: Use a ‘forever’ loop to check and display the Hunger and Happiness variables. Add a condition to make the pet sad if Hunger is low.

Notes: You can add more features like sleeping, grooming, or customizing the pet’s appearance. Encourage kids to think about how to make their pet happy!

These examples of creating simple games with Scratch provide a great starting point for kids to explore coding while having fun. Each project encourages creativity and problem-solving, making learning enjoyable and engaging!