Got a minute? Play some of the best games by NZ school students
25 August 2017

Primary and secondary students made dozens of digital games and board games as part of a national education competition.

The best of these are now online in a winners’ showcase, including two games you can play during your coffee break.

This was the second year that the NZ Transport Agency has offered prizes to student teams who design games. The Future Transport Competition challenged students to investigate the fast-changing world of transport. They then used their ideas to create a game or narrative entry (such as video or written story) and had to share their work within their school.

The NZGDA’s own James Everett was part of the judging panel for games. He was joined by Ben Kenobi, AUT, Bron Stuckey, an Australian consultant in game-based learning and Karen Spencer, a well-known teacher.

Why is the NZ Transport Agency doing this? To enable young people to think and act like citizens and contribute to the national conversation around transport futures. Game-based learning is taking off in schools as teachers report students really enjoy it. Plus, game design is a great fit with areas of the curriculum such as technology.

Play and view the games here:

Future Transport Competition Winners: Best Games

Best Game Years 1-6 went to Transport Hero by Ava, Grace and Hannah from Clearview Primary School, Rolleston. Made on Scratch, and playable on the above website.

Judges: “The game has a simple concept and is really well-made. It’s fast-paced and really is heaps of fun to play.”

Best Games Year 7-10 went to Starpath by Kayley, Kaile and Georgia from Riccarton High School. A board game about paths that glow in the dark.

Judges: “We love this board game. We really wanted to play it! You wrote excellent documentation and gave your game in-depth play-testing. These are both key skills in creating a game.”

Best Game Years 11-13 went to STOP by Katherine, Regina, Dheyril and Raina from Westlake Girls High School. Another Scratch game – try to beat the high score of 71!

Judges” “This is a game that works. It is fun and engaging. It stands out. What is really neat is how the game mechanic and the message match up well.”