dna-builders-the-double-helix-challenge

A 3D classroom game for Grade 6–8 students. Two players take turns building a DNA ladder by matching base pairs (A–T, G–C), with a teacher who explains the rules and gives hints. When every rung is correct, the ladder twists into a double helix, followed by a short "What we learned" summary about DNA.

Run it

The game uses ES modules, so it must be served over HTTP (opening index.html directly from disk won't work).

• MAMP: put the folder in htdocs and open http://localhost:8888/dna-builders-the-double-helix-challenge/
• Any static server: e.g. python3 -m http.server in this folder, then open http://localhost:8000/

Three.js (r160) is bundled in vendor/, so it runs offline. Google Fonts load when online and fall back to system fonts otherwise.

Controls

• Drag a block from the tray into the glowing space, or click a block to send it there
• Check answer to test the pair; Ask teacher for a hint
• Keyboard: A T G C U to place, Enter to check

Files

• js/main.js – renderer, camera, game loop, UI wiring
• js/game.js – turns, scoring, hints, finale
• js/dna.js – blocks, ladder, tray, helix twist, confetti
• js/classroom.js, js/characters.js – the room and the three characters
• js/recap.js – end-of-game DNA summary pages
• js/audio.js – synthesised sound effects and teacher voice
• js/ui.js, css/style.css – HUD, speech bubble, screens