In this era of digitalization, the IT industry is the most demanding among students. Playing games online is a common thing now. Everyone holds a smartphone and has an internet connection. Many types of games are played all over the world. These games are not only exciting but also help us to relax. But sometimes playing games online becomes a disadvantage as one becomes addicted to them. An addiction is never good, but we can turn that addiction into a positive one. Educational games are an exciting opportunity for those who love playing games and wish to learn something. For those who want to pursue their career in it, there are many games that can help them learn programming skills, problem-solving skills, and many more. Teenagers who love playing games and want to pursue careers in cyber security and its field can try these games. Here is a list of 20 educational games that can enhance your knowledge.
1. Code Combat
Code Combat is an educational game mainly for students who want to learn coding and pursue a career in programming. One can learn many coding languages, like Java, Python, HTML, etc, via this video game. Players can play this game free of cost and can even activate a monthly paid subscription, which will add additional features to the game. In this game, players do coding to clear different levels of this game and can play both in multi-player and single-player modes.
2. CyberCiege
It is an educational video game developed by a naval postgraduate school. This game is designed to make one understand network security concepts like cybersecurity, hacking, etc. This game is made for players with, a passion for cyber security and programming. In this game, players defend their networks and make choices to protect their networks, that is reflected in real-time. This game is available for Windows-based computers, and if you are still a student, then you can tell your teacher to request the game through the email given.
3. Human Resource Machine
Human resource machine is a puzzle-based game, in which the player plays the role of an office worker and then completes various tasks by controlling their subordinates through programming. In this game, players solve different puzzles provided, and as soon as the riddle gets solved, the player gets promoted to the next level. This game is available on iOS, Microsoft Windows, Wii U, etc.
4. Hacknet
Hacknet is a video game released in 2015. One who has an interest in hacking and cyber security must try this game; in this game, the player plays the role of the hacker who is guided by a deceased hacker named “Bit.”, Bit guides the player to solve puzzles, do various hacking tasks, and clear the level of the game. Hacknet has a very interactive storyline and hacking machines, which creates a fascinating gameplay experience. This game is available on various platforms, like macOS, Microsoft Windows, etc.
5. Minecraft: Education Edition
This game is published by Microsoft and specially designed for students and classroom purposes; one can learn basic coding, history, science, and more subjects through this game. This is a paid game and is present on various platforms like iOS, ChromeOS, Xbox, etc.
6. Linux Tycoon
This simulation-based game is mainly for software developers, casual gamers, and Linux enthusiasts. In this game, programmers must deal with bugs and other coding issues to reach the next level. This is free and licenced under the GPL. One can learn about software management and open-source software through games.
7. Kerbal Space Program
This is a popular simulation video game released in 2011. The player here is an agency manager for kerbal species and is tasked with building, designing, and launching rockets to explore a star said to be a kerbal system. In this game, you use AI-assisted tools and models to make rockets and reach the next level. You can find this game on platforms like iOS, etc.
8. Civilization VI
Civilization VI is a popular strategy-based video game released in 2016 and is the sixth part of the Civilization series. In this video game, players try to build a civilization from scratch and make decisions about resource management, technology research, city placement, etc. Here, players fight AI opponents to protect their civilization. It is highly recommended for those who love games like Clash of Clans. One can find the game on various platforms, like PlayStation, the Microsoft Store, etc.
9. The Typing Of The Dead
This game is very much like the popular game “House of the Dead.” It is a zombie-based video game in which you have to save yourself from getting eaten up by zombies and killing them by typing words or phrases shown on the screen. This game not only increases your typing speed but also helps you in your programming career. This game is available on platforms like Steam, arcades, etc.
10. Algorithms: Explained And Animated
It is a mobile app to learn about computer programming through visual lessons. It covers a wide range of topics related to computer science, like sorting algorithms, search algorithms, and many more. Parents who want an excellent basic programming concept for their children can install this app from the Play Store.
11. Screeps
It is a multiplayer strategy game released in 2014. In this game, players use Java programming language to control their teams, resources, and tasks. One who is interested in Java language and programming should try this game. This game also provides a learning tool for those who want to learn Java and algorithm thinking, etc. It is one of the most famous games among programmers and game enthusiasts and is worth a try.
12. Replika
Replica is an AI chatbot released in 2017 by Luca, Inc. It is present in the form of an AI app which users can download from the Play Store. This chatbot was developed to offer a conversational partner to the users, and they can use Replica as their tutor in the AI field. They can learn about programming languages from her. Replica can become an excellent interactive and learning tool if used properly.
13. TIS-100
It is a puzzle-based video game released in 2015. In this game, players are given the task of programming a virtual computer, solving various puzzles, and writing codes for performing specific task, so that they can reach the next level of the game. This game is perfect for those who love programming as well as fun. This game is similar to human resource machines and is available on various platforms like Linux, steam, etc.
14. Quandary
This is an educational-based video game released in 2013. The Quandary is a game where players make ethical decisions and face challenges, dilemmas, etc, while playing. This game is specially made for students and teachers where they make ethical decisions and do critical thinking to solve various game tasks. It’s an excellent source to educate children about AI and character building. The game is suitable for players of different ages as this game adapts according to the decisions made by the player.
15. 7 Billion Humans
It is a puzzle-based video game released in the year 2018. In this, players complete various tasks by guiding inbuild game characters (said to be office workers) through programming, commands, and algorithms. Those interested in programming and coding can play this game, as this game makes players learn programming concepts, like loops, in fun and exciting ways. One can find this game on platforms like iOS, Linux, etc.
16. Google’s Grasshopper
Google’s Grasshopper is an interactive coding game that uses a fun and engaging gaming interface and offers perks for completing various coding challenges. It’s a free and self-paced learning platform for the basics of Javascript. It was launched in 2015 by Google and is a promising tool for aspiring developers and coders to learn JavaScript as it provides feedback and hints on challenges. It is available on various platforms like IOS, GOG, etc.
17. Infinifactory
Infinifactory is a fantasy-based puzzle game developed by Zachtronics in 2015. The players take up the role of a human captivated by aliens and are supposed to create production lines for specific products. The players are presented with puzzles and objectives to conquer with a storyline. The game has sandbox mode available, which allows players to create their puzzles and share with others. It is an excellent, challenging, and rewarding puzzle-based game.
18. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farm life game created by Eric Barone. It’s a roleplaying game following a character who inherited a family farm from his grandfather. The game follows the character’s journey through the growth of the farm its interactions with fellow townspeople, and the completion of various quests in the town. The game was released in 2016 and is highly recommended if you want a relaxing yet exciting game with a country theme and a wholesome feel.
19. Portal 2
Portal 2 is an addictive physics-based puzzle game that invites players into a world of creative problem-solving. By using devices to create portals, players navigate complex environments and overcome various challenges. This gameplay improves spatial reasoning, critical thinking, and logical problem-solving skills, which are extremely valuable in the IT field. IT professionals often encounter complex problems that require innovative solutions. Portal 2 promotes the mindset needed to effectively meet such challenges, making it an excellent tool for skill development in the IT world.
20. Digital: A Love Story
Digital: A Love Story is an award-winning game developed by Christine Love in 2010. It’s a visual novel game that follows a named character’s online relationship with a girl named Em. Their relationship is challenged by the fact that they have never met in person, and due to the digital nature of their relationship, they have to face hurdles like malware and hackers. The game is entirely based on the interface of 1980s computers with BBS messages and posts from other characters. This is a well-written, free novel game that explores various interesting characters and themes. It’s a highly recommended game if you are interested in the visual novel, engaging story, and a worthwhile experience that will stay with you long after completing this short game.
