Have you ever thought of creating your own video game?

Although it might seem impossible at first, hard work is always rewarded and with the right tools and guidance, you could transform your creative ideas into interactive realities!  

To make it possible, we, as part of Video Games For Good project, have created a collection of toolsheets designed to make video game creation and business simulation more accessible and inclusive. The aim is to equip any young developers with the practical resources to enter the game industry and foster your entrepreneurial thinking.  

Making Game Creation Accessible and Inclusive

Have you ever wondered how to create your own video game? And, more importantly, how to make it accessible and inclusive? The toolsheets provide answers. They compile free or low-cost resources that simplify each stage of the creation process. They open the door for more young creators to join the industry and ensure that new games better reflect the world’s variety of voices, experiences, and challenges. Moreover, our project’s toolsheets also contribute to the social entrepreneur skills: using what is at your disposal to solve problems. That being said,  

Let’s explore the toolsheets!

Each toolsheet introduces a specific tool or framework and includes a concise description, guidance on how and why to use it, and direct links for deeper exploration. The resources are grouped into several areas: 

1. Tools that simplify or enhance the game creation process:

Do you feel like game creation is too complicated for you? Then, try it out:  

  • 10 Steps to Market a Game 
    A practical guide that will help you market your indie game effectively.  
  • Jyros 
    A platform to measure and understand the environmental impact of your video game production 
  • Screens of Tomorrow 
    A guide to promote dialogue and incorporate elements of a more inclusive and sustainable society 
  • Climate Game Toolkit 
    A collection of templates and advice for integrating climate consciousness into game narratives and mechanics. 

2. Resources that help integrate ethical and sustainable practices into game design:

Game creation isn’t just about fun. It’s also about impact.  

  • Two tools to promote inclusive storytelling 
    Tips and guidelines to craft stories that feature diverse characters and challenge stereotypes.  
  • An accessibility checklist 

To make sure your game is accessible to everyone and that all players are welcomed!

3. AI-Powered tools for responsible development and iterative processes:

As artificial intelligence becomes central to modern society, it’s crucial to use it ethically and reflectively. These tools guide young creators through responsible innovation. 

  • Ethical AI Design Canvas Template & Teachable Machine Ethics Explorer Worksheet 
    structured frameworks encouraging reflection on “benefits and harms”, “data privacy”, “bias”, and “fairness”.  
  • AI Reflection Matrix Template 
    A tool that encourages critical thinking about the social impact of AI features, helping teams evaluate risk and responsibility for each decision. 

4. Tools for project management and team coordination in game startups

Effective communication and collaboration are key to any creative venture. The tools we recommend have been tested. Some are even currently used by our partners in the VG4G project. The tools include Slack for real-time communication, Miro for collaborative brainstorming, and a Communication Plan template to help 

structure teamwork and keep tasks on track. 

5. Business Development and Funding Opportunities

Coming up with an idea is easier than starting a business out of it. Which is why we’ve gathered several resources for young entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion into a profession: 

  • Kickstarter 

A platform for crowdfunding and early community building. 

  • Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs 

A European exchange for gaining cross-border experience and mentorship. 

  • European Solidarity Corps and VSME 

A European exchange for social impact projects and small business support. 

 

Want to have a look? Feel free to check it out: https://www.videogames4good.eu/?page_id=1803

And help us shape the future of gaming one step at a time!  

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