Converting audio to .wav files

I've been asked how to convert .mp3s to .wav files for use in GameMaker and I suggest using a free audio convesion program called Switch. It's worked for me in the past, but let me know if it doesn't do the job for whatever reason.

Virtual Machine and GameMaker 8.0 Testing Errors

To whom it may concern,

Our team has noticed a critical flaw in the implementation of GameMaker 8.0 and Virtual Machine. We would like a clarification of how to proceed with our work under the following constraints:

Firstly, virtual machine is only installed on the computers inside the lab, and no instructions are given as to how to download it onto other computers inside the university. This kind of seems limiting, seeing as how many individuals need to build their programs outside of classroom and on their own time.

Secondly, even on the computers inside the lab, it is not possible to test any files made with GameMaker 8.0. Doing so will prompt an video drive error. If we cannot test our files, then how is it possible to make an effective prototype using supplied products?

Thirdly, I have tried downloading both GameMaker and Virtual Machine on to the computers outside the lab, still on Linux. But even when permission is granted to run their respective setup files, Linux is still unable to run the program because the .exe files are in binary code.

It would be excellent if someone could provide instructions as to how to circumvent or solve these technical difficulties. Otherwise I'll just have to skip class to work on my project (which is even worse, since it is a barrier to interacting with my group).

Thank you,
Stephen Dixon

Yellow Lab A Question

Hey Orin,

This is a question from yellow lab A, the question is in regards to putting the entire game together into one large file. As you know each group in the labs makes a small portion of the end game and the final product should run cohesively as one end product.

We were wondering if it is a difficult task to combine multiple smaller games/levels into an entire game that can be run smoothly without issues. Any comments or suggestions are welcome.

Thank you,

Philippe

Question from green lab C

Hi Orin. It's Brett from Green Lab C here. Our Lab is planning on developing a computer game to help guests of the Mustard Seed improve their cognitive skills. I remember from your presentation that we are encouraged to make the game fun first and educational second - everyone agrees that this is a very important concept to keep in mind as we are developing the game. In addition to being generally inexperienced in programming we have a very limited amount of time to produce the game.

Do you have any specific advice on what works well to make games fun without creating complicated graphics or programming? Are there any common pitfalls that people in our position should be aware of so we can avoid them if possible? (we want to avoid trial and error processes as much as possible)

Thanks in advance for any advice you have.

Brett
Green Lab C