Whether it be from a personal passion to create something, or via some strong encouragement through school, kids are likely to need something to get them past the initial learning curve.

It is a graphic-based programming tool, so kids wont need to write any code.

Microsoft Kodu Game Lab Series Of Commands

Instead, they place objects and then attach a series of commands with the format of WHEN this happens, DO this.

As an example, the inclusion of paths for objects to automatically follow opens up doors for games that are not typically feasible in this type of early programming experience.

New players will need to load each phase of the tutorial manually and may not even realize that help is available.

Many of the instructions refer to an old Xbox Live version which no longer seems to be available.

And although there are video tutorials to help get started, there is no way to search for help on a specific topic or feature.

Graphics are mediocre, menus are frustrating to navigate, and the entire application feels like it needs an overhaul.

Users can use an Xbox controller with their PC, but some kids may find all of the controller button references to be confusing.

There are dozens of written tutorials, videos, and lesson plans available around the web to get kids started and to help guide them through the process.

Microsoft maintains a library of resources specifically for educators and there are plenty of others available for those who want to look.

Microsoft Kodu Game Lab Software No Longer

The software no longer seems to be available for Xbox, but Microsoft continues to update the software for Windows.

The software will run on Windows XP (updated), Windows Vista, Windows 8, Windows 88.1 (desktop mode), and Windows 10.

This username will appear on uploaded games, so choose it carefully.

Kids may need a reminder to avoid using real names during registration.

Most users will want to go to the Load World option, where they will find a range of tutorials.

Kids should start at the beginning and work their way through because the tutorials build on one another.

Kids will add an object, such as a robot or a fish, customize the color, and then right-click on it to add a program.

It is important to note that objects cant be imported into Kodu, so kids are limited to what is already there.

Each program has a series of commands that include a trigger WHEN and a resulting action DO.

This language helps kids understand some basic programming logic in a manner that is clear and easy to follow.

For example, when a purple button is pressed, have the robot say, Hello.

There are enough commands and filters and objects to keep them engaged and entertained as they create game after game.