COURSE MODULE SANDBOX

The Sandbox Beginner’s Guide: Create, Play & Earn

Table of Contents

MODULE 1: WELCOME TO THE SANDBOX

• Understand The Sandbox’s core concepts.

• Set up an account and wallet.

• Navigate the platform’s dashboard.

• SAND: The platform’s cryptocurrency (used for transactions, staking, and governance).

• LAND: Virtual real estate (parcels you buy/build on).

• ASSETS: 3D items (e.g., trees, weapons) made with VoxEdit.

• Game Maker: Tool to create games without coding.

1. Go to the sandbox official website : https://www.sandbox.game/en/

2. Click "Sign Up" and choose email or crypto wallet (MetaMask recommended).

1. Verify your email/wallet connection.

2. Claim your free avatar: Customize appearance (screenshot example below).

• Home: News and featured events.

• Create: Access VoxEdit/Game Maker.

• Marketplace: Buy/sell ASSETS and LAND.

• Take a screenshot of your dashboard and circle the "Create" button. Share it in the Discord #onboarding channel with your username!

Q1. What is SAND used for?

a) Buying virtual pets

b) Transactions, staking, and governance (Correct)

c) Customizing your avatar’s shoes

MODULE 2: YOUR FIRST STEPS IN THE METAVERSE

Learning Objectives

1. Navigate basic controls within the Metaverse environment.

2. Customize your avatar to reflect your personality.

3. Explore public LANDs, including themed experiences, events, and community hubs.

Avatar Customization

1. Open “My Avatar” from the main dashboard.
• (Picture idea: Screenshot of the Sandbox dashboard with "My Avatar" highlighted.)

2. Choose your look:
• Adjust skin tone, hairstyle, and body type.
• Mix and match outfits, shoes, hats, and accessories.
• (Picture idea: Example avatar editor showing clothing and accessory options.)

3. Free Options vs NFT Wearables:
• Basic customization is free.
• Some exclusive outfits and accessories are NFTs—available on the Marketplace.
• NFT wearables can be rare or limited edition, giving your avatar a unique look.
• (Picture idea: Example of a regular shirt vs an NFT wearable item with price tag.)

Joining Events

1. Click “Events” on the dashboard.

1. Pick a live event
• Examples:
• Concerts – watch live music with other players.
• Game Jams – design contests and interactive competitions.
• Community Gatherings – casual meetups, hangouts, or workshops.

2. Enter the Event:
• On PC: Use the WASD keys to move around.
• On Mobile: Use touch controls (joystick + screen taps).

Task

• Visit “Alpha LAND” (a public LAND available in The Sandbox).

• Explore the environment: look at buildings, art installations, or games.

• Write down one thing you noticed (e.g., “I saw a giant voxel dragon at the gate”) and share your observation in the class Discord channel.

Quick Quiz

1. Arrow keys

2. WASD

3. Voice commands

1. They’re unique & tradable

2. They give you more speed

3. They change controls

1. An offline storage file

2. Virtual real estate

3. A mini-game

MODULE 3: CREATING YOUR FIRST VOXEL ASSET

• Understanding VoxEdit: Build a clear understanding of what VoxEdit is and how it plays a key role in designing voxel-based 3D models ideal for NFTs.

• NFT Creation Workflow: Discover how to use VoxEdit to design, animate, and transform 3D voxel models into NFTs.

• 3D Design Fundamentals: Learn essential 3D design principles—like size, scale, rotation, and mirroring—and how they function in VoxEdit.

• Animation Concepts: Explore how to bring 3D models to life using animation tools in VoxEdit to make creations more interactive and appealing.

• Integrating with NFT Platforms: Understand how to export your finished models from VoxEdit and upload them into NFT marketplaces.

• Exploring Advanced Tools: As you gain experience, dive into VoxEdit’s more advanced features to create more polished and complex designs.

• Community Involvement: Appreciate the importance of connecting with the VoxEdit community and other NFT spaces for learning, sharing, and collaboration.

• Download and navigate VoxEdit (The Sandbox’s 3D modeling tool).

• Design a simple voxel item.

• Export and upload to the Marketplace.

1. Go to the VoxEdit Website
Visit the official VoxEdit site and navigate to the “Downloads” section.

2. Choose Your Operating System
Select the appropriate version based on your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) and click "Download".

3. Install the Software
• Run the installer once downloaded.
• Choose or confirm the installation path.
• Follow the installation prompts.
• Once finished, click “Finish” to launch VoxEdit.

4. Check System Requirements
Ensure your device meets VoxEdit’s hardware and software specs for smooth performance (e.g., RAM, GPU, CPU).

• Toolbar – Controls for saving, undoing, and exporting.

• Tool Panel – Brushes, color tools, and animation controls.

• Viewport – The 3D workspace where you build your model.

• Object Library – Pre-made models and textures for reference or reuse.

• Go to “File” → “New Project.”

• Set your canvas size and click “Create” to begin designing.

• Pick colors from the palette.

• Place or drag voxels to form shapes.

• Use eraser and refine tools to adjust your design.

• Understand and use core 3D principles like scale, mirror, rotation, and dimensions.

• Access the animation panel.

• Create a new animation.

• Move, rotate, and scale parts across frames to add motion.

• Use keyframes and interpolation for smooth animations.

1. Export Your Model
Export your asset in a format like .GLTF or .OBJ with animation and textures included.

2. Choose a Blockchain Platform
Platforms like Ethereum or BNB Chain support NFT minting. Select one that fits your needs.

3. Mint the NFT
• Upload your file.
• Set metadata like name, description, and royalties.
• Pay gas fees if required (using your crypto wallet).

4. Understand Ownership & Licensing
Define if buyers get full rights or just usage licenses. This clarifies legal use and resale permissions.

5. Metadata Matters
Create strong metadata to explain the story, uniqueness, and utility of your NFT—this attracts collectors.

• Set up your profile and wallet.

• Review their listing policies.

• Engage with buyers, artists, and collectors.

• Reserve Price – Minimum acceptable price.

• Listing – Making your NFT visible for sale.

• Selling – Completing a transaction.

1. Go to the Sandbox market place

https://www.sandbox.game/en/shop/

1. Click "Create" → "New ASSET."

• Explore multi-object editing, custom shaders, and advanced rendering.

• Use these tools to polish and distinguish your NFTs.

• Continue learning from VoxEdit’s tutorials and user guides.

• Share work, get feedback, and stay informed on updates.

• Access official tutorials and video walkthroughs.

1. Open VoxEdit
Start a new project.

2. Build the Dog
Use the voxel brush to sculpt the body, head, legs, tail, eyes, ears, etc. Add color and texture.

3. Edit & Refine
Adjust size, rotation, and fine details using the properties panel.

4. Add a Background (optional)
Design a simple environment—park, beach, or other fun scenery.

5. Save the Project

6. Mint Your NFT
Choose a marketplace. Upload your design, add metadata, and mint the NFT.

7. Promote Your Work
Use social media to market your NFT, especially to dog lovers and art communities.

8. Engage
Join conversations, ask for feedback, and stay active in the NFT community.

QUIZ

MODULE 4: BUILDING A GAME EXPERIENCE

Learning Objective

• How to download and Install Game Maker.

• Navigate the Game Maker interface confidently.

• Add objects and NPCs (Non-Playable Characters) into LAND.

• Use triggers, logic, and rewards to create interactive quests.

• Build a working “Treasure Hunt” game experience using the provided template.

Introduction to Game Experiences in Sandbox

• A game experience is an interactive space built on LAND where players can explore, interact with NPCs, complete quests, and earn rewards.

• Unlike static worlds, an experience uses logic, conditions, and rewards to engage players.

• Even a simple quest (e.g., “Collect 3 crystals”) introduces storytelling, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment for players.

How to Download and Install Game Maker

1. On the Sandbox homepage, hover over Create in the top menu.

2. Select Game Maker.
• Direct link: https://www.sandbox.game/en/create/game-maker/

3. Click Download Game Maker.

4. Choose the latest version and save the installer file (SandboxGameMakerSetup.exe) to your computer.

1. Locate the downloaded installer in your Downloads folder.

2. Double-click SandboxGameMakerSetup.exe.

3. Follow the installation wizard:
• Accept the License Agreement.
• Choose an installation folder (default is usually fine).
• Wait for the installation to complete.

4. Once done, click Finish.

1. Find Sandbox Game Maker in your Start Menu or Desktop.

2. Open the app — the login screen will appear.

3. Log in using your Sandbox account (from Step 2).

4. Once logged in, you’ll have access to:
• New Project (create your first game world).
• Tutorials & Templates (beginner-friendly starting points).
• Asset Library (characters, objects, and environments).

• Open Game Maker.

• Start a new project with a pre-built template (e.g., a racing or adventure map).

• Place a few assets and press Play to test your world.

• Keep your Game Maker updated — The Sandbox team regularly releases new features.

• Join the official Discord: https://discord.gg/sandbox to get help if you face installation issues.

• Watch quick-start tutorials on their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheSandboxGame.

Game Maker Interface Overview

Layout of the Game Maker

1. Toolbar (Top Panel): Contains buttons for saving, testing the game, adjusting settings, and accessing tools like the logic editor.

2. Asset Panel (Left Side): Displays all available assets (VoxEdit creations, NFTs, or preloaded items). Assets can be dragged into the world.

3. Scene Panel (Center): The 3D workspace where the LAND and game environment is visualized.

4. Properties Panel (Right Side): Shows editable settings for selected assets (size, color, behavior, logic, etc.).

5. Navigation Controls: Tools to zoom, rotate, or pan within the LAND.

Best Practices for Navigation

• Always name your assets clearly (e.g., “Treasure_Chest_1” instead of “Object_12”).

• Use the grid view to keep placements neat and aligned.

• Save frequently, especially after logic changes.

Adding Objects and NPCs to LAND

Objects

• Static Objects: Trees, rocks, furniture. Used to build the environment.

• Interactive Objects: Doors, treasure chests, switches. These can be tied to triggers or quests.

1. Select an asset from the Asset Panel.

2. Drag and drop it onto the LAND.

3. Adjust its position, rotation, and size using the properties panel.

NPCs (Non-Playable Characters)

• Quest Givers: An NPC who tells the player to “collect 3 coins.”

• Enemies: NPCs that attack the player or create obstacles.

• Merchants/Helpers: Provide tips or exchange items.

1. Choose an NPC from the library or import one.

2. Place them in the world.

3. Assign behavior logic (e.g., friendly, hostile, neutral).

4. Add dialogue through the properties panel to make them interactive.

Setting Triggers and Rewards

What Are Triggers?

• Triggers are conditions that, when met, activate an action.

• Example: “When player collects 10 coins → Unlock the exit gate.”

Common Triggers

• Object collected → reward is given.

• Area entered → NPC dialogue starts.

• Enemy defeated → new quest unlocked.

Rewards

• Items (keys, weapons, special objects).

• Access (unlocking a new area).

• Completion message (“Congratulations! You completed the quest!”).

Step-by-Step Example: “Collect 10 Coins to Win”

1. Place 10 coin objects across the LAND.

2. Set each coin as a collectible asset.

3. Create a counter that tracks the number collected.

4. Link the counter to a quest condition (requires all 10).

5. Add a reward trigger: once condition is met → display a victory message or spawn a treasure chest.

Task Overview

• Build a simple treasure hunt where the player must find 3 hidden items scattered across the LAND.

• A template world will be provided to reduce setup time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Load Template: Open the provided base LAND in Game Maker.

2. Place Treasure Items: Hide 3 items (e.g., gems, scrolls, coins) across the LAND.

3. Set Collectible Logic: Mark them as collectibles.

4. Add Quest Giver NPC: Create an NPC who introduces the quest (“Find the 3 gems to unlock the chest!”).

5. Reward System: Once all items are collected, spawn a treasure chest or play a celebratory message.

6. Test and Adjust: Run the experience to ensure items are collectible and the quest works.

Learning Outcomes

• Practice working with objects, NPCs, and triggers.

• Learn how to design player flow (quest start → searching → completion).

• Gain confidence in testing and debugging experiences.

Best Practices and Design Tips

• Keep Quests Simple: For beginners, avoid overloading the player with too many steps.

• Visual Cues: Use lighting, pathways, or NPC hints to guide players to treasure.

• Balance Difficulty: Ensure items are hidden but not impossible to find.

• Storytelling Matters: Even a small treasure hunt feels more engaging with a short narrative.

Reflection and Extension

• What made the quest fun or frustrating?

• Did the NPC’s dialogue help the player?

• How could the experience be expanded (e.g., multiple quests, enemies, puzzles)?

Module 5:Monetizing Your Creations

Learning Objective

• List creations on The Sandbox Marketplace.

• Explore passive income opportunities through staking.

• Apply for partnerships and grants to grow as a creator.

Why Monetization Matters

• Economic sustainability for creators.

• Expansion opportunities, enabling creators to reinvest earnings into new tools and LAND.

• Ecosystem growth, as every sale fuels activity and engagement within The Sandbox.

Topics Covered

A. Marketplace Listing Steps

1. Asset Creation
• Use VoxEdit for assets (e.g., voxel trees, weapons, characters).
• Export the asset with metadata such as title, category, and description.

2. Minting as NFTs
• Assets are minted as NFTs on the Ethereum or Polygon blockchain.
• Each minted asset becomes unique, tradable, and ownable.

3. Submission for Review
• The Sandbox has a curation system to ensure high-quality listings.
• Creators must submit assets for approval before they can go live.

• Once approved, assets are listed for sale in SAND.

• Creators choose pricing strategies (fixed price, scarcity models, or limited editions).

• Listing Fee: A percentage of the sale goes to The Sandbox ecosystem (commonly 5–10%).

• Royalties: Creators set a royalty percentage for secondary sales. Example: if someone resells your tree, you still earn a cut.

• Scarcity-based pricing: Limited copies = higher price.

• Mass adoption pricing: Lower prices, higher volume sales.

• Value-based pricing: Set based on the asset’s utility (e.g., rare sword vs decorative vase).

B. Staking SAND for Rewards

• Users deposit (stake) SAND into liquidity pools.

• In return, they receive staking rewards, which may include:
• Extra SAND.
• Exclusive NFTs.
• Early access perks.

• Grow your holdings without selling LAND or assets.

• Reinvest profits into software, better creations, or promotion.

• Build long-term financial security.

C. Partner Programs & Grants

• Provides financial support to voxel artists and game designers.

• Helps creators focus full-time on building.

• Grants for game developers who propose unique, fun, and engaging gameplay experiences.

• Successful applicants receive funding in SAND to bring their visions to life.

• Collaborations with brands, companies, or DAOs within The Sandbox.

• These programs boost visibility and provide new monetization pathways.

Interactive Elements

A. Quiz: Calculate Royalties

• Sale Price = 5 SAND.

• Marketplace Fee (10%) = 0.5 SAND.

• Your Earnings = 4.5 SAND.

• Each resale = 0.25 SAND royalty to you.

• Total royalties (10 resales) = 2.5 SAND.

B. Task: Draft a Mock Listing

• Title: “Mystic Oak Tree”

• Category: Environment / Decorative Asset

• Description: “A rare enchanted oak tree, perfect for fantasy lands. Limited edition of 25.”

• Price: 5 SAND each

• Copies: 25

• Royalty: 5%

• Pricing strategy.

• Scarcity model.

• Appeal of description.

Best Practices for Monetization

1. Create Utility-Driven Assets – assets that enhance gameplay (e.g., weapons, NPCs, obstacles) tend to sell better than purely decorative items.

2. Promote Your Work – market your listings on Twitter, Discord, or NFT communities.

3. Engage in Partnerships – team up with game makers who need your assets.

4. Balance Pricing – avoid overpricing; focus on building a reputation first.

5. Stay Consistent – regular asset releases build trust and an audience.

Case Study: Success Story

• Example: A creator designs a voxel dragon. They list 50 copies at 10 SAND each.
• Initial sales: 500 SAND total.
• Secondary market resales: 200 transactions, each at 20 SAND. With 5% royalties, the creator earns an additional 200 SAND.
• Total Earnings = 700 SAND.

• This demonstrates how strategic pricing and royalties create long-term revenue streams.

Conclusion

Module 6: Joining the Community

Learning Objective

• Navigate Discord and online forums respectfully.

• Participate in global and local game jams/hackathons.

• Stay updated through newsletters, live spaces, and events.

• Build your network and grow your identity as a creator.

Why Community Matters in The Sandbox

• Networking: Meet fellow artists, developers, and potential collaborators.

• Visibility: Share your work with a larger audience.

• Support: Get help when stuck on technical issues.

• Opportunities: Find contests, grants, and commissions.

• Learning: Stay ahead with the latest tools and updates.

Discord and Forum Etiquette

1. Respect Others: Treat members with courtesy. Avoid toxic behavior or unnecessary conflict.

2. Stay Relevant: Post in the correct channels. For example, share assets in #voxedit-showcase instead of #general-chat.

3. No Spam: Avoid flooding chats with links or promotions. Share only when relevant.

4. Use Threads: If a conversation goes deep, create a thread instead of cluttering channels.

5. Ask Thoughtful Questions: Before asking, search if the answer already exists in FAQs or pinned posts.

• Introduce yourself in the welcome channel. A short “Hi, I’m [name], I build voxel characters” works well.

• React to other creators’ posts — encouragement goes a long way.

• Share progress updates, not just finished products. This invites feedback and makes your journey relatable.

Participating in Jams and Hackathons

• Showcase Skills: Your work reaches judges, peers, and the wider community.

• Earn Rewards: Many jams offer SAND, LAND, or marketplace spotlights.

• Teamwork: Some jams allow collaboration, letting you learn from others.

• Portfolio Building: Even if you don’t win, the game or asset you submit becomes part of your portfolio.

1. Watch for announcements on Discord or Twitter.

2. Register early to access guidelines and resources.

3. Form or join a team if collaboration is allowed.

4. Break down the theme into achievable tasks (e.g., story, environment, characters).

5. Submit on time and polish your entry with a clear description.

• Stick to scope: avoid overly complex projects.

• Communicate with teammates daily.

• Test your experience thoroughly before submission.

Staying Updated with Newsletters and Spaces

• Official Newsletter: Regular updates about marketplace changes, upcoming contests, and platform features.

• Discord Announcements Channel: Immediate updates about bug fixes, events, or server downtime.

• Twitter/X Spaces: Live sessions where community managers, partners, or creators discuss trends.

• Medium Blog: Deep dives into ecosystem updates, grants, or creator spotlights.

• Be among the first to enter contests or funding calls.

• Learn about new tools (like VoxEdit updates or Game Maker features).

• Connect with thought leaders and gain insight into industry trends.

Building Your Presence as a Creator

1. Consistency: Use the same username across platforms (Discord, marketplace, Twitter).

2. Portfolio: Keep a link to your published games/assets in your bio.

3. Engagement: Comment, react, and support others regularly.

4. Share Progress Publicly: Use hashtags like #MadeWithSandbox when posting on social media.

5. Collaborate: Partner with other creators to expand your network.

Interactive Elements

Task:

Mini Quiz:

1. What is one rule of etiquette when posting in Discord forums?

2. Name two benefits of participating in Sandbox Game Jams.

3. Where can you find official updates about new contests and grants?

Summary

Acknowledgment

#SANDBOX OFFICIAL WEBSITES

• Twitter (X): @TheSandboxGame

• Discord: https://discord.gg/thesandboxgame

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheSandboxGame

• Instagram: @thesandboxgame

• Official Website: https://www.sandbox.game