Hi!

Soon I’ll have my little nephew (13) in my company to check out software development for a week.

I’m working with large industry machines in real time Linux systems, so obviously I’d show him my test machine and if the customer agrees, I can show him some robots as well.
Also, he will get some crash course in computer basics.

He is an avid gamer - although not really good with computers.

I’ve gifted him a still nice laptop with Linux and Steam installed 1-2 years ago and he happily played Minecraft, but after some time he went back to his Switch 2.

Now he uses my Steam Deck - although that doesn’t make that much of a difference…

I’d like to give him something fun as an exercise, that’s is early rewarding.

Perfect would be, if he could code himself a little computer game, but that’s completely out of my normal work stuff and I don’t know what good options are available.

I guess starting with C++ and an Unreal engine or similar is more than an overkill.

Is there something, that is teaching the basics and gives rather quick rewards, which can produce a little something after 2-3 days?

Thank you all in advance!

  • ImgurRefugee114@reddthat.com
    2·
    5 days ago

    Prism launcher works well on Linux and helps with keeping multiple versions of the game & multiple modpacks to keep stuff organized.

    As for modding itself, it would need an IDE and build system, along with a bit of prep and research…

    I think the programming game is definitely the way to go at first.

    Though, knowing that modding is a possibility they can persue on their own in the future would still be good. Or maybe remind them of that once they gain some proficiency with the basic concepts.

    • naeap@sopuli.xyzOP
      2·
      5 days ago

      Thanks

      I’ll need to try this on my system first to have some steps ready

      Will probably be a decision be available free time

      But yeah, I also thing the finished game should falls more in the category of “just works” and with this limited time, this is probably be better option

      • ImgurRefugee114@reddthat.com
        2·
        5 days ago

        Yes. My thinking is that they may persue game modding on their own; if not in the near future, possibly some years down the line. You won’t need to hold their hand that much if they discover a taste for it. That programming game definately wins in the short-term.