There were many fun and interesting entries in the Game Design Challenge: Race to the End, which asked you to create a race-to-the-end game for children ages 11 to 15.

The entries varied from adaptations of pen-and-paper and digital games, to all new ideas and intellectual property. Some of the games had a lot of luck, but fun things to do along the way. Other games tried to give the player some agency over the entire journey, and make the race more skill based.

Neither way is more valid than the other. For simple race-to-the-end games, having a fun trip is really the most important thing. If everyone, even the person who comes in last, had a good time getting there, you've succeeded. The key is to keep everyone, even the losers, engaged at all times.

One of the keys to this challenge is the simplicity of the rule set, since children as young as 11 will be playing, as well as thematic interest. Designing a game about The U.S. Constitution would probably turn most players off, but making a game about monsters or pirates would keep the same kids enthralled most likely.

The best entries took the theme and made mechanics that made it feel like you were actually doing what the game narrative was telling you that you were doing. It may seem funny to think of games like this as having narrative, but what would Monopoly be without you trying to become a real-estate mogul? It would just be an excuse to get into fights with your family!

We really enjoyed the variety of themes that were presented by everyone who submitted entries. There were games about space, sailing, Mario Kart, footraces, and much more. It's easy to get stuck thinking about the same handful of genres over and over in games, since they are often over-used (World War II, sci-fi anything, high fantasy). However, you showed that it's possible to make compelling games outside of those genres, which is something that is genuinely appreciated. Here are the best of the best from the entries.

Best Entries

• Xavier Lafont, Amateur Developer, Blow it UP!! Mandate of E.L.D.O. (see page 2)
• Andrew J. Kim, University of Wisconsin--Parkside, Poker Gestures (see page 3)
• Tamar Goldberg, Ninja Treasure Race (see page 4)

• Ned Elwell, no affiliation, The Great Steeplejack Chase (see page 5)
• Paul Sztajer, University of Sydney student, Masts of Speed (see page 6)
• Martin Bilello, Sr. Technical Architect and Junior Game Designer, AD&D The Beginners Online Game (see page 7)