Why teachers should switch from Code.org Game Lab to CodeGuppy
If you've been teaching with Code.org Game Lab, you already know how effective visual, creative coding can be for engaging students. Game Lab's sprite-based approach, built on a Processing-style API, has helped millions of students create animations and games.
But as your students grow more confident, you may notice Game Lab's limitations. The environment is somewhat constrained, and students who are ready to take the next step often hit a ceiling. That's where codeguppy.com comes in.
The similarities you already know
Code.org Game Lab and codeguppy.com share a lot of DNA. Both platforms are built around a Processing-inspired API that uses a canvas for drawing shapes, sprites, and animations. If your students have learned commands like rect(), ellipse(), fill(), and background() in Game Lab, they'll find nearly identical functions on codeguppy.com.
Both platforms also support sprite-based game development, with commands for creating sprites, detecting collisions, and handling user input. The mental model is the same — your students won't have to start from scratch.
What makes CodeGuppy different
Real JavaScript
While Code.org Game Lab uses a simplified JavaScript-like environment, codeguppy.com runs actual JavaScript powered by the p5.js library. This means students are learning industry-standard syntax that transfers directly to real-world development. The jump from codeguppy.com to professional tools like VS Code is much smaller.
A bigger canvas and richer creative environment
Code.org Game Lab restricts students to a 400x400 pixel canvas. codeguppy.com provides an 800x600 canvas — three times more space for students to build detailed scenes, complex game worlds, and visually engaging projects.
On top of that, codeguppy.com comes with built-in graphical assets — characters, backgrounds, tiles, and icons — that students can use in their projects immediately. There's no need to upload images or find external assets. Students can focus on writing code instead of hunting for art.
Multi-scene programs
Unlike Game Lab, codeguppy.com supports multi-scene programs out of the box. Students can build games with title screens, multiple levels, and game-over screens — all within a single project. This teaches them real software architecture patterns.
A growing library of projects
codeguppy.com includes dozens of ready-to-explore projects that students can study, remix, and extend. From simple drawing programs to complete games, these examples serve as both learning resources and inspiration.
A smooth transition for your curriculum
If you have existing lesson plans built around Code.org Game Lab, you'll find the transition to codeguppy.com remarkably smooth. Here's a quick mapping of concepts:
| Code.org Game Lab | codeguppy.com |
|---|---|
| 400x400 canvas | 800x600 canvas |
createSprite() |
sprite() |
drawSprites() |
Not needed (automatic) |
function draw() |
function loop() |
background() in draw loop |
clear() in loop (set background() once outside) |
rect(), ellipse() |
rect(), ellipse() |
keyDown() |
keyIsDown() |
mousePressedOver() |
Built-in collision detection |
Most concepts map directly. The few differences are minor and well-documented.
The bottom line
Code.org Game Lab is an excellent starting point, and there's nothing wrong with continuing to use it for introductory lessons. But when your students are ready for more, codeguppy.com provides a natural, low-friction path to real JavaScript development — without abandoning the creative, visual approach that makes coding fun.
The platform is 100% free, requires no installation, and works in any modern browser. You can start exploring it today at codeguppy.com.
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