Minecraft is our primary tool to introduce kids to technology, art, hardware and programming. This track focuses on art, 3D design, programming, code and building on technical computer skills. Join us as we create new items, armaments and more to the game by coding our own Data Pack, the next generation of Minecraft modding. Change many advanced facets of the game and really shape it to your own artistic / game design perspective. This topic is for aspiring coders and creatives alike who want to get their feet wet or expand their knowledge using everyone’s favorite educational tool and hit video game, Minecraft.

Fall – Treasures & Traders

• Program custom powerful Artifacts into the game using 3D modeling, pixel art and coding. Throwable TNT ninja stars, power-up potions, tossable water buckets and projectile mob spawners. Create your own currency that new scripted NPC traders will accept for these rare Artifacts you designed. Write code to change mob loot drops to include your custom currency to add your Artifacts into the gameplay loop!

Winter – Hardware Hacking

• Use custom hardware and a special version of Minecraft to inject real coded scripts into the game. Write python scripts to place blocks, mobs and create in-game effects. Create an app that will display in-game coordinates on an external device. Use NFC (near field chip) technology to make real world blocks that, when placed on the scanner, will place the block in-game. Creating a “toys to life” affect and real world hardware to software interactions.

Spring – Archery & Projectiles

• Code up a custom mod full of an array of archery and magic projectiles. Use a custom ray casting system to detect when a mob is hit by an arrow to apply effects like poison or damage. Use 3D modeling software and pixel art to bring your magic projectile flinging armaments to life in the game.

In this Track you will develop these Skills: 3D modeling, pixel art, coding, programming, building, logic, interfacing, simulation, computer literacy, computer file hierarchy, Command Blocks, 3D modeling, pixel art, texture design, game design, animation, modding, hardware programing, computer interfacing, python scripting