Makecode Arcade Coding Guide 3 - The Legend of Esmarelda - RPG

This is a complete guide for students to create their own “Legend of Esmerelda” simple RPG game (similar to the Legend of Zelda) using Makecode Arcade. This comprehensive set of resources are created to support a hands-on approach to coding, problem-solving, and creativity in game design. Students and teachers are guided through sign up, code exploration and game creation, learning key coding concepts as they gradually build their own working game. Each lesson focuses on small standalone game elements that can be explored, built and tested in a 40-60 minute session.

By using the PRIMM method (Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify) students will deepen their understanding of how the code works, learn to use key vocabulary and apply computer science concepts as they build depth into their own games.

This scaffolded process will reward them with, not only their own working game, but a solid understanding of fundamental coding concepts and how to apply them in program development.

Includes:

• Introduction to using Makecode in schools - Sign up and class management

• Skills Review Pre and Post reflection

• Step by Step game making guide - with detailed images and explanations

• PRIMM - Resources for Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify stages of study

• Keywords - Definition matching exercises, Word Searches and Crossword activities to support the learning of new language

• Innovation planning pages - for planning changes and improvements

• Debugging Resources - play testing feedback forms

• Asset Creation Guidance - How to use Makecode image editor and media tools

• Flowcharts, Explanation and Project Planning resources

• Review pages for WWW / EBI (What went well / Even better if…) reflections.

Support your students as they make their own exciting arcade games.

PRIMM - teaching technique
Predict - Run - Investigate - Make - Modify
Throughout the series of activities, students are encouraged to innovate and iterate on the game design, predict outcomes based on code snippets, run the program to verify predictions, and investigate the effects of code modifications. The process highlights the importance of understanding game mechanics like tilemaps, in game variables, player interactions, and scoring mechanisms.

The Legend of Esmerelda
This game provides an engaging and dynamic experience where players must explore maps and battle against ghosts on their way to finding the treasure.

Coding Concepts
Commands
Sequencing - Events
Sprites - Player, Enemy and Projectile
Theme Music
Tiles and Tilemaps
Projectiles with direction variables
Movement (Velocity X and Velocity Y)
Countdown Events
Overlap Conditional Rules
If … then, Else if … else, decisions
Variables (Direction, Lives, Points, Time)
Game Over Event