Tektoma: Game Tutorials for Kids

Tektoma: Game Tutorials for Kids is exactly what the title suggests- tutorials that teach students ages 7-17 how to create their own video games. These skills are taught via video, using the free version of Gamemaker software. This is a subscription program, you are paying for the videos that teach you how to use the free software. New videos are added each month, taking the student further into learning.

I gave the log in information to my 14 year old and let him go at it on his own. I wanted to see if this was easy to use for the student, or if he would need parental help. He managed to download the software and start the lessons without any trouble. Sitting in the same room, I tried to stay out of his way but pay enough attention to write the review. The voice of the man teaching was putting me to sleep. I was thinking I may have another "dull but effective" response from my son, but right at that moment he said, "Wow, this is pretty cool." Hence the reason I thought it best to just let him have at it. This is right up his alley and I wanted his uninhibited response.

He has spent the last week creating games in his free time. He has created two games so far, one with dragons and knights and one with stick figures. He has even emailed them to his brother so that he could play it on our laptop. Apparently that is possible, who knew? I guess that would be Tektoma Tutorials. ;-) His enthusiasm is contagious and his 12 year old brother is now inspired to learn all he can as well, before our subscription runs out. When my kids are using the review products on their own, in their spare time, with no prompting from me-I'd consider that a successful program for our family.

Tektoma: Game Tutorials for Students is available for $14.95 per month or $140 for a year's subscription. There is a free 14 day trial, so try that first and see if this would be worthwhile for your family. Also, be sure to check out the About Us section. The idea for this program came from computer and technology summer camps for kids!