For Immediate Release
Nebraska Public Media’s ‘Civics Scribble’ Enters Early Access on Steam Ahead of Constitution Day Release
LINCOLN, Neb. (Aug. 19, 2026) – “Civics Scribble,” a road trip-themed puzzle game developed by Nebraska Public Media, is available now in Early Access on Steam, a digital game platform where players can explore and play the game now, ahead of its full release on Constitution Day, Sept. 17, 2026.
The enhanced version of “Civics Scribble” is available on Steam for $6.99 and includes 108 levels, a new story, unlockables and collectibles. It also includes a level editor which lets players create and share their own levels. Purchases of “Civics Scribble” through Steam support Nebraska Public Media’s mission to educate, inform and inspire. Proceeds from the enhanced version support the creation of educational tools and experiences that encourage curiosity, learning and engagement for learners of all ages.
During Early Access, players can purchase and play the current build now or add the game to their Steam wish list to be notified at full release.
“Civics Scribble” will evolve throughout Early Access, with levels being polished and tested as development continues. The full version launches Sept. 17, 2026, coinciding with Constitution Day, the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution.
Free versions of “Civics Scribble” remain available on the Nebraska Public Media website, as well as through the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Several PBS stations are currently hosting the free version of “Civics Scribble” on their websites, including PBS Western Reserve (Ohio), KET (Kentucky), PBS SoCal (Los Angeles area) and WUCF (Central Florida). It is also available on Public Media 250, a website that brings America’s history to life through local stories from PBS stations nationwide.
Inspired by classic computer games such as “The Oregon Trail” and 1980s arcade games, “Civics Scribble” is a web-based line drawing game designed to challenge players with questions inspired by the U.S. Naturalization Exam.
In the free versions, gamers of all ages can move through 96 levels and develop their knowledge of U.S civics while navigating challenges such as spikes, bouncy blocks and teleporters.
“Civics Scribble” is a project of Nebraska Public Media’s Labs team, space for experimentation, innovation and the incubation of the next generations of public media. The department develops original ideas at the intersection of storytelling and interactive technology. Its games have earned outside recognition, including a Games for Change Award nomination for “Powwow Bound: A Menominee Homecoming,” a game developed in partnership with PBS Wisconsin.
The Nebraska Public Media Labs team that created “Civics Scribble” includes several designers with ties to the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Kim Rogers, 402-470-6512
About Nebraska Public Media
Nebraska Public Media has connected people with news, sports, education and entertainment since 1954. Providing global and compelling stories from PBS and NPR, the statewide public media network also produces award-winning local content. Its programs and services reach Nebraskans through television, radio, podcasts, digital platforms, social media and mobile apps. Visit NebraskaPublicMedia.org for more information.
