The game is based on CTE curriculum for middle school students and introduces students to as many as 15 different career paths. The CTE program involves a multiyear sequence of courses that integrates core academic knowledge with technical and occupational knowledge to provide students with a pathway to postsecondary education and careers.

NC student Anthony Ramirez, the project manager as well as the lead game designer and programmer, said by creating situation puzzles the team was able to create a fun and interesting way to present the information to students. He is proud of not only the game but also what he and his fellow classmates took away from the project.

“The students designed the game so each level can be played in 15 to 20 minutes,” said Judy Perry, professor of Simulation and Game Development. “This allows for a middle school teacher to use it as an activity or a tool in class or a student can explore on his own.”

Professor Judy PerryPerry, who handpicked the students for the project, said her role in the development process was minimal. “The students worked independently, using the game design skills and the game development process they learned in game design classes.”

Other students who worked on the project included designers Christopher Chance and Casey Starrett; programmer Christopher Price; artists Michelle Zaludek and Cesar Olivares; and audio Matt Posner.

Galactic Bug Quest is available online