Hidden Agenda Computer Game Design Contest

Do you like computer games?

Want a chance to win $25,000?

The Liemandt Foundation is offering a cash prize for the best educational computer game created by a student.

A few students in "Writing for the Internet" are using the programming language Inform to create interactive fiction games. When the kids are in bed, I spend my leisure time creating platform-jumping style games with The Games Factory (an inexpensive, point-and-click, no-programming-necessary authoring tool that comes with a free demo.) I've also bookmarked Adventure Game Studio, which is a free utility that lets you create Kings Quest/Space Quest style computer games. I've also started "modding" -- that is, designing my own levels for current first-person action games.

In the Fall of 2006, I will teach a course called "New Media Projects," and would welcome game design projects. You don't have to be a new media journalism major to take that course; I'd welcome graphic arts, computer science, and education students as well. There are a few prerequisites, though, so if you are at all interested, contact me.

Anyway, here is the notice from the Liemandt Foundation. All they want from you now is a statement that you're interested in participating. You can figure out what kind of game you want to create later; and you can even change your mind comletely.

Thanks so much for showing interest in the Hidden Agenda College Game Development contest!! Without people like you, this nonprofit program and the potential of education through video games wouldn't be where it is today. We are officially 2 weeks away from when all preliminary entries must be received. I'd hate to have people not enter because of a missed deadline during finals, so PLEASE -- if you are thinking of entering, take 10 minutes fill out the form (attached and at http://www.hiddenagenda.com ) and mail it to 4910 Ave G, Austin TX 78751.