KODU is a visual programming tool that allows users to create video games without manual coding. It introduces programming concepts such as objects, properties, and methods in a fun and intuitive way. Users can edit game worlds by adding terrain, objects, and programming object behaviors. The tool encourages exploration of programming through a simple controller-based interface. Users can play, edit, and create their own games or customize sample games provided. Advanced settings and options allow saving and sharing of created games. More information and free development software can be found on the Microsoft Research website.

1. KODU Visual game programmingLynn Langit – Developer EvangelistMicrosoft

2. Visual ProgrammingIs EngagingIs IntuitiveIs FunEncourages ExplorationNeeds no manual Needs minimal instructionsIntroduces formal programmingObjectsPropertiesMethods

3. The ControllerOn controller, wiggly sticks (left & right sticks) for navigation (or circle-cross button)

4. Edit feature explains buttons A, B, X,Y

5. L &R buttons that do not stick up for zooming in or out

6. L&R buttons that stick up explained in Edit functionPlaying a gameStart by playing a sample gameOpening Kodu screen Move from option to option by pressing the circle with the cross on your Xbox 360 game controller. To select an option, press the A buttonLater you can customize any sample game

7. More ABOUT Playing a game Select the game you want to play (scroll) + pick (Press X)Press A to start game playGame play directions will be shown on opening game screen

8. DemoPlay a game

9. Editing the worldTo edit, press Back Go to the edit selectionChose what you want to addInstructions will be in top left cornerOnly objects can be programmed in Kodu.You can change the terrain as wellAdd waterAdd hills or valleysChange textureChange color (background and lighting)

10. Editing screen

11. demoEdit the world

12. ADDING an objectTo edit press BackUse left wiggly stick to position cursor (white circle) to locationPress A to open the object menuSelect object or object groups and then press A

13. change AN OBJECTFocus on object (place cursor on it)Make changesObjects are characters or plants

14. Editing objectsChange colorCloneAdd musicPositionAdd activities (i.e. program)

15. demoAdd and edit objects

16. Programming – when/doPress BackSelect the object, Y to programLeft stick on When+, to select When action use A

17. programming rowsY to insert more RowsAll Rows run simultaneouslyCan have multiple pages Can program gamepad buttonsCan program multiple gamepads (multi-player games)

18. Actions availableMoveKickScore PointsAdd MusicEatSwitchSwearMore…

19. demoProgramming When / Do Actions for Objects

20. Advanced settings Rate of kicking acceleration, Lighting, Volume, Breeze speed…

21. Saving your gameBack button to Back Menu, then ‘Save my world’If using Xbox 360, then games can be saved and shared