Создание компьютерной ролевой образовательной игры для школьников «Forest Theory»

Municipal autonomous educational institution

«Secondary school №2 with in-depth study physics, mathematics, Russian language and literature»

Verkhnesaldinsky city district

Direction: humanitarian

Section: linguistic (foreign languages)

Project type: creative

Creation of a computer role-playing educational game for schoolchildren «Forest Theory»

Author of work: Herman Maria Alexandrovna,

10th grade,

tel. 89617619601

e-mail: mariariagerman.ui.7@mail.ru

Work mentors: Solovyova Tatyana Vitalievna, English teacher,

tel. 89089034399,

e-mail: tatwilsol@mail.ru

Gilyasova Rafilya Ravilyevna,

Art and drawing teacher,

tel. 89089117286,

e-mail: rozikr@mail.ru

г. Верхняя Салда

2025 год

Table of Contents

Introduction………………………………………………………………...4

Theoretical Part……………………………………………………...5

1.1 History of Computer Game Development…………………...5

1.2 Classification of Computer Games…………………………..6

1.3 The Concept of “Programming”……………………………..8

Practical Part………………………………………………………..10

2.1 Choice and Justification of the Game Concept……………...10

2.2 Plot and World………………………………………………11

2.3 Design and Development……………………………………12

2.4 Prospects for Further Development………………………….14

Conclusion………………………………………………………………….15

References………………………………………………………………….16

Introduction

My individual creative project, «Creating a Computer Role-Playing Educational Game for School Students «Forest Theory» is relevant today. Forest Theory is a computer role-playing game based on scientific research in the field of life situations, aimed at developing logical thinking and various subjects in school curricula (such as physics, life safety, geography, etc.) and fostering spatial imagination. All knowledge from these subjects is applicable in the game.

Purpose: Creation of a computer role-playing educational game for school students.

Objectives:

Study the history of computer game development.

Research material related to the educational curriculum of school subjects.

Design the game's graphics and animations.

Write scripts that implement gameplay.

The relevance of educational computer games in modern education is determined by several key factors. First, they offer students the opportunity to actively engage in the learning process, which enhances material retention. Second, game elements such as achievements and levels significantly increase students' interest in the learning process, making it more engaging. Additionally, educational games help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, which are crucial in today's world. With advancements in technology, games have become accessible to a wide audience, allowing learning to take place anytime and anywhere.

Thus, educational computer games are becoming an important tool in education, combining entertainment and learning, which makes them particularly relevant in the modern educational process.

1. Theoretical Part
1.1 History of Computer Game Development

Let’s take a look at the history of computer game development. It all began in the 1960s when scientists and engineers started experimenting with programming and graphics. One of the earliest games is "Tennis for Two," created by William Higinbotham. It allowed two players to control paddles on an oscilloscope.

In 1972, "Pong" was released, becoming the first commercially successful arcade game. At the same time, home consoles began to emerge.

The 1990s saw a boom in 3D graphics and technology. Games defined the first-person shooter genre. The introduction of gaming consoles like the Sony PlayStation1 also changed the market, making games more diverse.

In the 2000s, the era of online gaming began. The advent of MMORPGs (massively multiplayer online games) changed the way players interacted with each other. Mobile games also started to develop, making them accessible to a wider audience.

In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of indie games, which are created by small teams and often offer unique and creative ideas. The emergence of virtual and augmented reality technologies also opens new horizons for gamers.

My work is focused on creating a video game. As it turns out, developing a video game is a complex process that requires creativity and professional skills. When creating a video game, it is important to consider the following factors:

Target Audience: The video game should be understandable and appealing to the target audience.

Competition: The video game should stand out among competitors.

Longevity: The video game should remain relevant for an extended period.

1.2 Classification of Computer Games

The classification of computer games is an important tool for structuring information and identifying the target audience. Below are the main categories that can be used:

1. By Genre

Action: Games that require quick reflexes and coordination (e.g., shooters and platformers).

Adventure: Games that focus on world exploration and puzzle-solving.

Role-Playing Games (RPG): Games where players develop characters and their skills (e.g., Japanese and Western RPGs).

Strategy: Games that require strategic thinking and planning (e.g., real-time strategies and turn-based strategies).

Simulation: Games that imitate real processes or situations (e.g., flight simulators or building simulators).

Sports: Games based on athletic competitions (e.g., soccer or basketball simulators)..

Puzzle: Games focused on solving various tasks and puzzles (e.g., Tetris or Candy Crush).

2. By Platforms

PC Games: Games designed for personal computers and laptops.

Console Games: Games intended for gaming consoles (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo).

Mobile Games: Games available on smartphones and tablets.

Web Games: Games that can be played through internet browsers.

3. By Interaction Method

Single-player: Games designed for one player.

Multiplayer: Games that allow multiple players to interact with each other.

Co-op: Games where players work together to achieve a common goal.

4. By Target Audience

Children’s Games: Games designed for children, taking into account their interests and skill levels.

Teen Games: Games aimed at teenagers, often with more complex plots and mechanics.

Adult Games: Games intended for adult audiences, which may contain deeper themes and elements.

5. By Graphics Style

2D Games: Games with two-dimensional graphics.

3D Games: Games with three-dimensional graphics.

Pixel Games: Games created in a pixel art style, often associated with retro aesthetics.

1.3 The Concept of "Programming"

Programming2 is the process of creating software, which involves writing, testing, and maintaining code that performs specific tasks on a computer or other device. There are many programming languages, such as Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript, each with its own features and areas of application. For example, Python is popular for its simplicity and ease of use for beginners, as well as its wide range of libraries for data analysis and machine learning. Java, on the other hand, is often used for developing mobile applications on the Android platform and for enterprise software.

Programming is based on algorithms — sequences of steps to solve problems — and data structures help organize and store data efficiently. Understanding various algorithms, such as sorting and searching, as well as data structures like arrays, lists, and trees, is key to writing efficient code.

The software development process includes several stages: requirement analysis, program architecture design, coding in the chosen language, testing for errors and compliance with requirements, as well as maintaining and updating the program to ensure its functionality and add new features. During the testing phase, it is important to identify and fix errors to ensure that the program works correctly under various conditions.

Programmers use various tools, such as Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), version control systems (like Git), and libraries to facilitate the development process. IDEs provide a convenient interface for writing and debugging code, while version control systems allow tracking changes in the code and collaborating with other developers.

Programming is applied in a wide range of fields, including gaming, web development, mobile applications, scientific research, and process automation. In the gaming industry, development requires not only programming knowledge but also an understanding of graphics and physics to create an engaging gaming experience. In web development, programmers create interactive and dynamic websites using technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

It is not just a technical skill but also a creative process that allows solving real problems and bringing ideas to life. Programming develops logical thinking and problem-solving skills, making it useful not only in the IT field but also in other areas.

I will use the programming languages C# and C++ to write scripts, as the Game Maker program, in which I will be engaged in creating the game itself, is oriented towards programming specifically in these languages.

2. Practical Part

2.1 Choice and Justification of the Game Concept

Game Concept:

«Forest Theory» is a computer role-playing game that immerses players in an exciting adventure based on scientific research and educational elements. The game combines elements of logical thinking and the application of knowledge from school subjects such as physics, safety, geography, and more. This approach not only develops intellectual skills but also helps players apply the knowledge gained in real-life situations, especially in the context of safety during forest outings.

I took references for the game from Sally Face, Undertale, and Deltarune.

Justification for Concept Choice:

1. Educational Value:

The game is aimed at developing logical thinking and cognitive skills, making it beneficial for schoolchildren and students. The knowledge acquired during gameplay can be applied not only in academics but also in real-life situations, enhancing the significance of the gaming experience.

2. Interactive Learning:

Players will solve tasks and puzzles using knowledge from various subjects. This transforms learning into an engaging process where players learn through practice, which contributes to better retention of material.

3. Branching Storyline and RPG Mechanics:

The presence of a branching storyline and various endings based on player choices adds an element of replayability. Players will be motivated to explore different outcomes, increasing interest in the game and encouraging deeper exploration.

4. Pixel Art Style:

The pixel art style creates a unique atmosphere and evokes nostalgia for classic RPGs, which can attract both younger audiences and older players familiar with such games. It also allows a focus on the storyline and mechanics rather than graphical effects.

5. Real-Life Safety:

The game will be useful for those who want to learn how to safely spend time in nature. Knowledge gained during gameplay can help players in real situations, such as navigating in the forest, providing first aid, and understanding the environment.

2.2 Plot and World

A girl and her friends go on a picnic in the forest, but after wandering off for firewood, she suddenly finds herself lost in the dark. She desperately tries to find her way home and encounters a fantastical forest full of mysteries and enigmas. Players will need to solve these puzzles, overcome challenges, and interact with various characters to help the heroine return home. Every step determines her fate, and player choices influence the storyline and ending of the game. This fosters an emotional connection with the character and increases engagement.

The game also features gameplay mechanics typical of role-playing games, such as gaining experience points, weapons, and health. Along her journey, she will face obstacles and challenges that she must overcome, as every step defines the girl's fate.

There will also be secondary characters, some with good intentions and others with bad, not to mention animals that will either hinder or assist her. Players can earn experience points by completing quests, defeating enemies, and solving puzzles. These points can be used to improve health, skills, and acquire new weapons, such as a magical bow or a protective amulet.

Checkpoints will be present to save progress. The girl may find a bunker with food supplies and other useful items, depending on player choices, or she may have to survive in the wilderness.

Shadow beasts will attack the girl, but if the player can defeat them, she will gain experience points and enhance her weapon. Evil forest spirits can manipulate reality, creating illusions. The girl must use her intuition to discern the truth.

Every decision made by the player affects her path. For example, if the player decides to help a forest spirit, it may lead to acquiring a unique artifact that aids in battling dark creatures. However, if they choose to collaborate with a cunning fox, it may result in unexpected consequences.

Depending on the choices made, the ending may vary:

Return with New Powers: The girl returns to her friends, enriched by experience and new magical abilities.

Lost in the Forest: After making many wrong choices, the girl may remain in the forest and lose her connection to her former life forever.

Alliance with the Forest: The girl decides to stay in the forest to become its protector, and her friends will come to her for help, creating a new alliance between humans and forest beings.

2.3 Design and Development

First, I decided on the program I would use to create the game: Game Maker3. Later, I started drawing the characters, backgrounds, writing scripts, and animating the character, where he walks and interacts (pic. 1, pic. 2).

Pic. 1

Pic. 2

Next, I created the animation in programm Krita that will serve as the lore for the game (the backstory) and will be shown from the very beginning (pic. 3).

Pic. 3

2.4 Prospects for Further Development

Perspectives for the Further Development of the Video Game4:

Expansion of the Game World: Adding new locations, levels, and quests can significantly increase player interest and diversify the gameplay.

Development of Additional Characters: Introducing new characters with unique abilities and backstories can make the game more engaging and deep.

Multi-layered Plot: Creating a complex storyline with multiple endings and player choices can enhance replayability and engagement.

Multiplayer Modes: Implementing cooperative or competitive multiplayer can attract more players and create a community around the game.

Updates and Expansions: Regular updates with new features, events, and content will help maintain interest in the game over the long term.

Player Feedback: Actively engaging with the community and considering player feedback will help improve the game and make it more appealing.

Marketing and Promotion: Developing a marketing strategy to attract an audience and create buzz around the game, including social media and streaming.

Conclusion

The purpose of my project has been achieved. I have studied the theoretical material and developed the video game "Forest Theory." My work will be used for educational and informative purposes.

I drew an animation for the game and tried myself as a video game creator. I also found educational materials examples for creating questions so that the game is not only interesting, but also exciting. I created scripts and animation with detailed elaboration, to make it visually cooler.
Working on the project has opened up a lot of new knowledge for me in the field of programming. In the future, I plan to connect my life with this direction. Knowledge in the field of visual arts and computer graphics is an integral part of future success.

References

1. Blayk Harris «Console wars», 1992.

2. Learn C# Programming: https://www.programiz.com/csharp-programming

3. Game Maker blog (help tutorials): https://gamemaker.io/ru/tutorials

4. Jason Shreyer «Blood, Sweat, and Pixels», 2017.