Kodu

Established: April 5, 2010

Kodu logoKodu is a new visual programming language made specifically for creating games. It is designed to be accessible for children and enjoyable for anyone. The programming environment runs on the Xbox, allowing rapid design iteration using only a game controller for input.

 

Programming as a Creative Medium

screenshot of the Kodu programming user interface

The core of the Kodu project is the programming user interface. The language is simple and entirely icon-based. Programs are composed of pages, which are broken down into rules, which are further divided into conditions and actions. Conditions are evaluated simultaneously.

The Kodu language is designed specifically for game development and provides specialized primitives derived from gaming scenarios. Programs are expressed in physical terms, using concepts like vision, hearing, and time to control character behavior. While not as general-purpose as classical programming languages, Kodu can express advanced game design concepts in a simple, direct, and intuitive manner.

Kodu Screen Shots

screenshot of the Kodu game load / community screen

Game load / community screen.

Turtle character

Yes, we have a turtle.

“Physical” sensors are used as rule input.

Stick character

Stick can’t walk but he packs a wallop.