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Design

Foundational

RPG Video Game Design

RPG Video Game Design

Duration:

4 weeks

When:

October 27 - November 19, 2025

Schedule:

Monday/Wednesday | 4–6pm

Difficulty:

Foundational

Ages:

12 - 14

Cost:

FREE

About this class

Ever wanted to make your own role-playing video game (RPG)? In this pixel art game design class, you’ll code a simple top-down game using GameMaker. You’ll start by creating a test game to learn the basics, then work with a small team to code gameplay, create pixel art, design sprite sheets, and create simple animations. Whether you’re crafting dungeons, designing enemies, or writing silly NPC dialogue, this is your chance to turn your video game ideas into a playable reality.

Gear + Software:

  • Laptops
  • GameMaker
  • Aseprite

Great for students who are into pixel art, video games, or RPGs—and want to learn how games are made from the inside out. No experience needed; just bring your creativity and a love for games!

Meet the Mentor

Mercedes Roberts (she/they)

Design Mentor

I am a jack of all trades when it comes to the arts, tech, and media and have a degree in game development/art from the University of Utah. I love all things game related, from animation and coding to recreating my favorite characters through cosplay. I was fortunate enough to make pixel art for “TAC Heroes: The Big Red One” for Nintendo DS in 2009 and have also worked on a number of game-based exhibits at Clark Planetarium. My final project at the U of U can be downloaded and played for free on Steam. Its called “Dive: Starpath” and I was the lead designer for that project.

I am so excited to share my experiences over the years with my students and inspire them to bring their ideas and stories to life. You can achieve anything!

Fun fact: I am named after the car. My dad has a passion for cars and named all of his kids after them. Ask me about my siblings’ names! My passion for games and the arts is as big as my dad’s love for cars.

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