Ever wanted to build your own game but not felt welcome in the medium?
This is an opportunity to learn how to make small, minimalist narrative games using the free online tool, Bitsy. What's really exciting about the tool is it doesn't require coding to make stuff, so the majority of your time in the workshop will be spent creatively expressing yourselves rather than bogged down in technical gunk.
You can use Bitsy for whatever purpose you wish, be that making a game, writing interactive fiction, creating small digital poems or building online playable zines! It's a very versatile tool that lets you publish games that work on web and mobile devices. You can even plug your own music into it so can make mini music videos or art pieces!
All backgrounds and skill levels are welcome, this is a judgement free space for people to experiment beyond the expectations of the medium and the industry/market.
The main requirement for attending the workshop is a laptop/tablet, Bitsy does run on mobile but it's a bit fiddly. If you're struggling to find equipment, you can pair up with a buddy! :)
Workshop is approximately 3 hours, with an initial tutorial giving folks a rundown of how Bitsy works then you'll have an opportunity to experiment/create your own experience initially through paper then digitally with me on hand to mentor/guide. As part of the workshop you'll get your own little notepad to write down ideas, doodle characters, write narrative and design levels. After everyone has finished their projects, there'll be opportunity to play each others games and I'll show you how to upload your projects online and share with friends.
Beyond the workshop, there's also the opportunity to join GEMS (Games Experiences Made in Sheffield) which is now running monthly meetups out of Gut Level that you'd be welcome to attend and show off your nifty new projects!
P.s. This workshop will be taught as part of the Experimental Games Design module at Sheffield Hallam in September, so you're getting that university material for free!!
This workshop is free for FWBs and £5 for standard members. Confirm your spot with the button below.
This workshop has been funded by the National Lottery.