Student Built Games

The new science building currently in progress opens up all sorts of new opportunities for students, one of them being an increase in the amount of space. Dr. Brandle has decided to capitalize on new space and create both a fun and educational project. A few months ago he went on his first Laser Tag trip where he had a blast and got the idea that this was something that students could build.

A little bit of research told him that this was actually very possible and through vendors such as MilesTag DIY Laser Tag Systems, a couple weeks later parts were shipped to begin building a prototype laser tag gun, vest, and communication system. Using an Arduino circuit board, some LED’s, and a little bit of creativity students are getting close to building the first gun. For the most part, it’s been computer science students who have been working on the project so it has been quite the learning process as they work with the Arduino circuit board and new language. So far, the team has managed to send data between the “gun” circuit board and the receiver circuit board. The next step is to figure out how to place the circuit board and corresponding wires into the gun and create a battery pack that can be worn as the user plays the game.

The CSE department is encouraging students with interactive exhibits or game ideas for the new building to submit their ideas to Department Chair Bill Toll for consideration. If approved, the department may provide the funds needed to purchase equipment for the ideas. Already available are several Kinects and touchscreens for games or interactive exhibits.