How Do Video Games Work? A Kid-Friendly Peek Inside the Screen

We all know how fun it is to pick up a controller, press “Start,” and jump into a whole new world. But have you ever wondered how video games actually work? What’s really going on behind the scenes when your character jumps, battles, or races across the screen?

Let’s break it down in a simple, kid-friendly way!

Step 1: A Game Starts with an Idea

Every video game begins with a cool idea. Maybe it’s a hero on an epic quest, a puzzle that needs solving, or a competition to win. Game developers plan out the game’s setting, characters, rules, and controls.

Step 2: Programmers Write the Code

Once the idea is ready, it’s time to build the game! This is where computer programmers come in. They use special languages, called code, to give instructions to the computer or console. This code tells the system all sorts of things, like what happens when you press certain buttons, how characters move, or what sounds and music to play. It’s like creating a giant recipe that the game follows step by step!

Step 3: Artists and Animators Bring It to Life

The artwork in a game has to come from somewhere, and that's where video game artists come in. They design the way characters look, how backgrounds appear, and how things move. Those explosions, power-ups, and jumping animations are all thanks to the work of artists and animators.

Step 4: You Play the Game!

When you press a button on a controller, the signal goes to your game system, which follows the code to figure out what should happen next. That’s how your character jumps, runs, battles, or flies!

In less than a single second:

• You press a button

• The controller sends a signal

• The game reads the signal and runs the code

• The game updates the screen so you can see what’s happening

• Rinse and repeat, over and over again!

Cool Fact: Games Are Like Mini Computers!

Inside every video game system is something called a processor, which basically works like a brain as it reads all the code and makes the game run smoothly. The screen shows you what’s happening, the controller helps you interact, and the speakers let you hear the action.

Try the Games for Yourself at Action City!

Want to put your knowledge to the test? At Action City, you can explore hundreds of arcade games, play your favorites, and even win prizes at our massive redemption store. Whether you love racing, puzzles, or battling in outer space, there's something fun here for every type of gamer.

Visit Metropolis Resort in Eau Claire, WI to dive into the world of games, trampolines, go-karts, and family fun. Now that you know how video games work, you’ll have even more fun playing them!