Gamifying Introductory Programming: A Case Study of Planet Panic

Traditional programming education often struggles to engage learners or foster deep understanding. \textit{Planet Panic}, a 2D pixel-art twin-stick shooter, addresses this gap by integrating core programming concepts into an interactive game environment. Players explore a vibrant world while completing quizzes, challenges, and narrative encounters that reinforce Java fundamentals. Guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Flow Theory, the game promotes autonomy, competence, and sustained motivation. Developed using GameMaker Studio 2 and GameMaker Language, its modular architecture supports easy adaptation to other technical domains. A preliminary user study showed high engagement and quiz accuracy, highlighting its potential in software development education. \textit{Planet Panic} offers a scalable, playful model that bridges game-based learning with programming instruction.