8 years & up with help, 10 years & up independently

Create playable video games with full animation, using markers, paper, and the Pixicade Special Animation Edition app!

Learn animation techniques from YouTube superstar animator Alan Becker and get a crash course in game design with the included 108-page book loaded with over 100 sample games!

How it works:

Step 1:
Download the free app from the App Store or Google Play to your phone or tablet.

Step 2:
Take a blank sheet of paper and draw your level using the included markers. Follow the color key to create the different game elements like movable objects, unmovable objects (walls and floors), obstacles, and more!

Step 3:
Take a picture of your drawing with the rear-facing camera on your device.

Step 4:
In the app, make any edits or adjustments.

Step 5:
Publish and Play!

Types of games you can make:

• Get the Goals:
  Create your own platformer! Your character can run, jump, and double jump through the level to collect rewards while avoiding enemies and traps!
• Maze Maker:
  Create the ultimate maze, then guide your character through without falling into traps. Level up your maze with moveable object and enemies that patrol the pathways!
• Brick Breaker:
  A challenging classic! Slide the paddle back and forth to bounce the ball into the bricks. Add obstacles, more bricks, or moving objects!
• Paddle Battle:
  A classic head-to-head battle! Each player controls a paddle to hit the ball into their opponent’s goal.

And more! With Pixicade, the possibilities are endless. Dream it, draw it, play it!

Contents:

• 108-page book loaded with over 100 sample games to spark your imagination and bring your ideas to life!
• Alan Becker Animation Guide
• 5 Markers

The app is compatible with all smartphones and tablets with access to the Google Play store or Apple iOS App Store.

Notes from Happy Up:

• We think the best age for Pixicade is 10 years & up.
  Here’s why: Even though the box says 6+ with help, we feel six is too young for this. You need to be able to draw fairly steady lines and shapes for the Pixicade app to work. We feel that 8 years old, with some help, is a better fit. At 10 years, kids will REALLY understand it and invent all sorts of playable video games!
• Tablet or phone? Tablet. In our experience, the Pixicade app works best on bigger screens.
• Important detail: The Pixicade app requires an internet connection.