LESSON 01 OF 07
Anatomy of a Platformer
Play or watch a platformer for 5 minutes. Write down: What moves does the hero have? What does the hero collect? What hurts the hero? What is the goal?
Ace saysMario, Sonic, Celeste — they are all platformers! Let me break down what makes them work.
Lana's guideA platformer needs: a hero with moves (walk, jump, maybe dash), platforms to stand on, things to collect, things that hurt you, and a goal at the end.
PARENT & TEACHER COACHNeed help teaching this lesson? Ask LANA.+
Help the child understand the lesson goal and make one idea they can proudly explain.
Invite the child to show you what they are making. Use short questions, give them time to think, and let their choices lead the project.
What are you making, why did you choose it, and what would you like to try next?
Break the activity into one tiny next step. Offer two choices, model one example, and praise the child's effort instead of taking over the project.
- The best platformers have 3–4 moves max
- Collectibles should be along the 'fun path'
- Enemies should be avoidable with skill
What moves does YOUR hero need?
