Microsoft Kodu Cup 2011 Fact Sheet
About Microsoft Kodu Game Lab Software
Kodu is a free game design tool developed by Microsoft Corp. for children to design, build and play their
own games on the PC and Xbox without any knowledge of computer programming. Instead of the
thousands of lines of text used in other programming tools, Kodu resembles a video game. It features a
point-and-click interface that allows dragging and dropping of simple icons so anyone can create an entire
game from scratch, complete with new worlds, players and actions.
Designed to help ignite children’s interest in future careers in science, technology, engineering and math
(STEM), Kodu provides a fun way to stimulate critical thinking and creativity while helping children develop
problem-solving and logic skills. Research has shown that Kodu Game Lab appeals equally to girls and
boys. The full-release version of Kodu Game Lab software is now available as a free download at
http://fuse.microsoft.com/kodu.
Microsoft Kodu Game Lab features include the following:

Functions to create 2-D or full 3-D interactive video games.

An interactive system that guides users through each step of making a game — creating terrain,
adding characters and programming them.
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A community feature that enables sharing games with other PC-based Kodu Game Lab users.

Visual language that eliminates syntax errors with no cryptic error messages while programming.
About the Microsoft Kodu Cup Competition

Microsoft Kodu Cup is a U.S. game design competition for kids.

There are two age group categories: 9–12 and 13–17.

All entrants under the age of 13 must have a parent or guardian’s consent to participate in the
competition.

Submissions will be judged on innovation, fun factor, production quality and presentation.

Entrants from each age group could win prizes for themselves and their schools.

Users can create, develop and submit their games between March 11, 2011, and May 10, 2011, at
koducup.us.

A full list of rules and judging criteria is available at koducup.us.
Kodu and Learning
Developed by Microsoft Research, Kodu Game Lab helps promote creativity, self-confidence, criticalthinking skills and technology skills. In late 2009, a pilot study was conducted with Kodu in 20 different
schools in Victoria, Australia, with children ages 5–16. The study found that 75 percent of the teachers
said students were more motivated and engaged in their learning, and 90 percent of students said they
gained confidence in their abilities to complete tasks.
As part of its Unlimited Potential program, Microsoft has made significant investments to prepare and
empower teachers who teach STEM subjects and to inspire young people to consider careers in STEMrelated fields. Kodu Cup is part of this commitment, which includes programs such as Imagine Cup,
Partners in Learning and DigiGirlz.
PRIZES (per age group)
Grand Prize (one awarded in each category, ages 9–12 and 13–17)
 $5,000 cash
 Trip to New York City for Microsoft’s Imagine Cup 2011 Worldwide Finals, July 10–13, 2011. Round-trip airfare for
two to New York, New York ground transportation, three nights double occupancy at the Marriott Marquis hotel in
Time Square and $250 cash
 Xbox 360 250GB console with Kinect
 Three-month Xbox LIVE Gold Membership
 Toshiba Satellite laptop
 Microsoft Arc Mouse
 Microsoft Office Professional 2010 software
 Grand Prize trophy
In addition, the school of each Grand Prize winner will receive the following:
 $5,000 cash
 One-year gaming magazine subscription (choice of Computer Gaming World, EGM, GamePro or PC Gamer)
First Runner-Up (one awarded in each category, ages 9–12 and 13–17)
 Toshiba Satellite laptop
 Microsoft Arc Mouse
 Microsoft Office Home and Student 2010 software
 First Prize trophy
Second Runner-Up Prizes (one awarded in each category, ages 9–12 and 13–17)
 Zune HD 16GB MP3 player
 One-year Zune Pass subscription
 Second Prize trophy
Four Sweepstakes prizes (awarded at random just for submitting an entry)
 Microsoft Office Professional software
For more information, press only:
Rapid Response Team, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, (503) 443-7070,
rrt@waggeneredstrom.com