Christmas is here! If you are looking for a cool game for your teens to learn about engineering, in a fun and interactive way, we recommend Kerbal Space Program.
Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is an indie space flight simulation video game available on PC, Mac, PlayStation , and Xbox One. The NASA endorsed game allows players to design and launch their own rockets and spacecraft. Players control a group of alien creatures called “Kerbals “. These Kerbals are the astronauts of the game, and it’s up to the player to make sure they have a successful mission.
Kids that play KSP, like the majority of video games, may hone their planning, problem-solving, and tenacity abilities. However, KSP is by no means a light game. Players must invest a lot of time understanding the rules of space travel and meticulously organizing their missions if they want to succeed at the game.
The complexity of the game and the arithmetic required for orbiting, landing, and rendezvous make KSP possibly too difficult for children under 10 to enjoy.
To start a mission, players first need to design their rocket or spacecraft. This involves choosing the right parts, such as engines, fuel tanks, and cargo bays. Players can also customize the appearance of their spacecraft, adding details like decals and paint jobs.
Once the spacecraft is designed, it’s time to launch! Players must carefully plan their trajectory, taking into account factors like gravity and air resistance. They must also make sure their spacecraft has enough fuel to reach its destination.
Progress through the game unlocks new technologies and parts, allowing the building of more complex and advanced spacecraft. Players can also visit different planets and moons within the game’s solar system, each with their own unique challenges and features.
Players will be introduced with the following specific ideas and abilities while playing KSP:
- Rocket science
- Orbital mechanics
- The physics of motion in space
- Discovery and exploration
The game can be played in one of three ways:
- Playing in sandbox mode is the simplest option. You have access to every component of a rocket; your creativity is the only restriction.
- You only have a few rocket pieces when you first start the Science mode. To gain science points, you must conduct scientific experiments on Kerbin and other worlds. These points can then be used to unlock new components.
- Finally, the hardest method to play Kerbal Space Program is in Career mode. In this mode, completing contracts will give you money that you can use to purchase components. In addition to doing science experiments to unlock new parts, you will also need to do so.
Kerbal Space Program is a great way for teens to learn about space exploration and the science behind it. It helps them develop problem-solving skills and encourages them to think critically about real-world issues. Plus, it’s just a lot of fun to play for anyone.
Click here for the trailer of the next installment: KSP2
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