Constellations and Astronomy Game Using Godot Game Engine

Abstract

This article’s objective is to develop learning material about constellations and astronomy using video game as a medium and studies its effectiveness and testers impressions of said developed game. Astronomy is one of the sciences that explains natural phenomena and disasters and has importance in daily life, such as satellite technology or weather forecasting. The developer has used a game presentation format to provide entertainment and learning simultaneously. The developed game is a 2D Pixel Art single-player adventure, Metroidvania, and likewise puzzle game for PC. The appropriated age is 11 years old for viral critical thinking. It allows players to explore areas across all four seasons, find 88 constellations that appear in different seasons, and correctly connect the constellations, referencing actual constellations and their appearance representing in the sky during each season. Players then can receive information about constellations and astronomy by connecting constellations or talking to characters within the game. The development used the Godot game engine as the main development tool, with all artwork and music created by the developer. Upon completion, the game was tested with a sample group of 11 people in age range of 11-22 years old, who were tested on their astronomy knowledge through 6-question surveys conducted twice – before and after playing the game. The test results showed that overall player scores improved approximately 37%. In addition, survey into players’ satisfaction regarding the game shows average score of 28.57 out of 35 points.