Tolko developed the Raspberry Pi-based BlobJump game, which is controlled through body movements, to encourage children to engage in physical activity. The player’s jumping and crouching are reflected in the movements of the character on the screen. The wireless belts contain the following components:
- ESP32-C3
- MPU-6050
- Rechargeable battery
The game is considered a project that could spark children’s interest in hardware and software development.
Why it matters
The project transforms screen-based gaming from an experience based solely on hand and finger movements into one connected with physical movement. In this respect, it brings together the goal of encouraging children to participate more physically during play with motion detection and game software on the same platform. The use of components such as Raspberry Pi, ESP32-C3 and MPU-6050 together makes it possible to see the relationship between hardware and software through a tangible game; this turns the project into an accessible application area for children interested in technology. What remains unclear is the extent to which this approach will increase children’s interest in physical activity and hardware-software development in practice.