Lux Automaton Logo
Lux Automaton
The AI Operating System
← All workshops

ACE & LANA'S LEARNING LAB

Build a Platformer Game: Jump. Build. Collect. Create Your Own World.

Young creators design, draw, and playtest a complete 2D platformer video game system across 7 epic missions. Guided by Ace and LANA, kids create their hero, level blueprints, power-ups, sprite animations, and pitch their game idea.
Ages 9–13150 minutes (2.5 hrs)Intermediate
Build a Platformer Game: Jump. Build. Collect. Create Your Own World. workshop hero

LESSON 01 OF 07

Mission 1 — Anatomy of a Platformer

Today's make

Discover the parts of a platformer: hero, platforms, goal, danger, and rewards.

Ace

Ace saysTry one brave idea first. You can always improve it after you see what happens!

Lana

Lana's guideWork one step at a time, and ask a trusted grown-up before using an AI tool.

LANAPARENT & TEACHER COACHNeed help teaching this lesson? Ask LANA.
01
What they're learning

Help the child understand the lesson goal and make one idea they can proudly explain.

02
Explain it simply

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.

03
Ask your young builder

What are you making, why did you choose it, and what would you like to try next?

04
If they get stuck

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.

LANA'S REMINDER

Guide the process without taking over. The child stays the creator; the adult keeps the experience safe, calm, and encouraging.

Build tips
  • Look at classic 2D platformers for level inspiration.
Before you move on

Save one thing you made and describe what you would improve next.

Dr. Torrey Dooley

DR. DOOLEY'S SMART & SAFE CHECK

  • AI helps. People create. Ask a grown-up first.
  • Never type full name, school, address, phone number, or private details into AI tools.
  • Use child-safe scissors and request adult assistance when cutting small cards.
  • AI prompt ideas are suggestions; the child remains the master game designer.