Make a 2d game
Create a simple 2D game using Scratch or paper prototypes, designing sprites, levels, and controls while testing and improving your gameplay.
About this tutorial
Create a simple 2D game using Scratch or paper prototypes, designing sprites, levels, and controls while testing and improving your gameplay.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Pick a fun game idea and name it so you know what world you are making.
- 2
Step 2
Choose whether you will make the game in Scratch or as a paper prototype.
- 3
Step 3
Draw your main player sprite on paper or in Scratch’s costume editor so you have a character to control.
- 4
Step 4
Draw two more sprites like an enemy and a collectible so the game has things to interact with.
- 5
Step 5
Design one level by drawing a map or creating a Scratch backdrop and mark the start and finish.
- 6
Step 6
Decide the controls (for example arrow keys to move or tap to jump) and write them down so players know how to play.
- 7
Step 7
Build a basic playable version: if paper, cut out pieces and use a token to move; if Scratch, add code blocks for the player movement.
- 8
Step 8
Add one challenge and one collectible and program or write the rule for what happens when the player touches them.
- 9
Step 9
Play your game three times and write down three things that could be better.
- 10
Step 10
Make one improvement from your list (change a control speed level layout or sprite look) and test the change.
- 11
Step 11
Create a title screen and a short “how to play” note so other people can understand your game quickly.
- 12
Step 12
Share your finished creation on DIY.org
Fun facts
How do I create a simple 2D game with Scratch or a paper prototype?
Start by picking a simple game idea (maze, platformer, or chase). Sketch sprites, backgrounds and level flow on paper or in Scratch's costume editor. In Scratch, build controls with motion and event blocks; in paper prototypes, make cards for player actions and a rule sheet. Test each level, watch a child play, note confusing bits, then simplify or add challenges. Repeat playtesting and tweak sprites, timing, and controls until fun.
What materials and tools do I need to make a 2D game with Scratch or paper prototypes?
You'll need either a computer or tablet with Scratch (free online) or paper and drawing supplies for a paper prototype. Essentials: computer/tablet, Scratch account (optional), printer (optional), paper, pencils, markers, scissors, sticky notes, ruler, and a pen for rule cards. Extras: a webcam or phone for recording playtests, dice or coins for randomness, and colored paper for easy sprite stand-ins.
What ages is making a basic 2D game suitable for?
This activity suits different ages: 5–7 can make paper prototypes and design characters with adult help; 8–11 are ready for basic Scratch blocks, simple sprites and level layout with light supervision; 12+ can handle complex sprites, variables and level logic independently. Adjust complexity, add timers or scoring for older kids, and focus on playtesting and iteration for all ages to keep learning fun and achievable.
What are the benefits, safety tips, and variations for making a 2D game?
Making games builds creativity, logical thinking, sequencing, and collaboration through shared design and playtesting. Safety tips: use parent email for accounts, keep personal info out of shared projects, supervise cutting and small parts, and limit screen time with breaks. Variations: convert your design into a board game, add narrative quests, introduce difficulty modifiers, or build cooperative vs. competitive levels to extend learning and replayability.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use if Scratch or printed paper materials are not available?
If Scratch isn’t available use a free block-coding app like MakeCode or use a paper prototype with cut-out sprites and a token from the 'build a basic playable version' step to test movement.
My player won’t move or touching a collectible does nothing—how do I fix it?
Check the player movement code blocks and key-press events in Scratch or the token rules in the paper prototype from the 'build a basic playable version' step, and make sure collision rules for the enemy and collectible from the 'add one challenge and one collectible' step are correctly set.
How can I change the activity to suit different ages?
For younger kids use the paper prototype with simple arrow controls and one collectible from the 'add one challenge' step, while older kids can use Scratch’s costume editor to design sprites, add enemy AI, multiple levels, and score tracking from later steps.
What are quick ways to extend or personalize the game after testing?
Personalize the game by redesigning the main player in Scratch’s costume editor or on paper, adding sound effects, creating extra levels from the 'design one level' step, and polishing a title screen plus the 'how to play' note before sharing on DIY.org.