Penarth boy becomes youngest male video game developer

Max Baker, who is in Year 6, spent four hours creating a platform game with five unique levels as part of his official record attempt, which took place earlier this year. After several months of assessment, Guinness World Records has now confirmed that Max has achieved the title of youngest male video game developer.

Max first became interested in coding while still in primary school and has since gone on to create and publish a number of games online under the name CrowStoleIt Studios.

In his Guinness World Records application, Max explained that his early experiments with Scratch in Year 2 quickly turned into a deeper passion for programming and game design. Largely self-taught, he credits online tutorials alongside structured learning through local coding and robotics clubs for developing his skills.

He is currently enrolled on an intermediate Python course through Ignite Hubs and has previously taken part in activities run by V.O.G. Bots at the local library Makerspace.

Max completed his record attempt at the Penarth Library Makerspace, where he had access to professional equipment and a supervised environment. The challenge required at least two independent professionals to observe the process to ensure he received no outside assistance, with Makerspace staff present throughout.

The Makerspace forms part of a wider network run through Vale of Glamorgan Council libraries, aimed at helping people of all ages develop digital, creative and technical skills.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said Max’s achievement highlighted the impact of these facilities on young people.

She said the Makerspace provides “inclusive access to technology, skills development and creative opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach”, helping to build confidence, digital literacy and future aspirations.

“Max’s journey from primary school coding to international recognition demonstrates exactly what our Makerspaces are designed to inspire,” she said.

Now officially recognised as a world record holder, Max hopes the achievement will be a stepping stone towards a future career in video game development. He is already working on new projects and has begun researching pathways into the games industry.

His success has also prompted interest from people working in technology and development, with offers of advice and encouragement shared following posts celebrating his achievement.