From Pac-Man to Python: Teaching Coding Through Retro Video Games
18/06/25
Why Retro Games in the Classroom?
Could the key to engaging students in coding be hidden in the pixelated worlds of the past? Across Europe, educators are turning to retro video games—like Pong, Tetris, Pac-Man, and Snake—to teach programming fundamentals. And it’s working.
These games may seem simple by today’s standards, but that’s exactly what makes them so effective. Their basic mechanics rely on core coding concepts like loops, conditionals, variables, and collision detection—making them ideal for both beginners and intermediate learners.
Simple Games, Big Impact
Retro games work well in the classroom for several reasons. Their simplicity allows students to focus on logic without getting overwhelmed. They often spark creativity, as students design their own 8-bit characters, levels, and sound effects. And perhaps most importantly, they’re fun. Even if students haven’t played these games before, the nostalgic style captures their attention and brings a sense of discovery. In many cases, it opens up conversations between generations, with students learning about the games their parents or grandparents enjoyed.
Tools That Bring Retro Coding to Life
There are several accessible tools that educators can use to bring retro game development into the classroom. Scratch is perfect for beginners, especially younger learners. It allows them to build simple games like Pong using drag-and-drop blocks and customise them with their own graphics and sounds. MakeCode Arcade is a great option for those ready to write code. It offers a visual environment that mimics a handheld console, making game creation both fun and approachable. For more advanced students, Python with the Pygame library provides the opportunity to recreate full retro games using real code—an excellent way to deepen programming skills in secondary school settings.
Creative Ideas to Extend the Learning
The potential for creative expansion is huge. Some classrooms have hosted retro game jams, where students work in teams to build their own games in just a few days. Others have integrated storytelling by asking students to recreate a game based on a family member’s memory or cultural story. Music can also be coded, giving students the chance to compose retro-style soundtracks with tools like Sonic Pi or BeepBox.
A Playful Path Into Programming
You don’t need high-end technology or flashy graphics to get students excited about coding. Sometimes, the charm of a bouncing pixel or the challenge of a maze is all it takes. By blending simplicity, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia, retro games offer a powerful and playful way to introduce programming.
Looking Ahead
During Code Week 2025, why not go retro and see how far a little 8-bit inspiration can go?
