Battle of the Boroughs is New York City’s public school Minecraft tournament. Teams of kids across the city compete to create builds that reflect and address real problems that the city is facing. What would the city look like if everyone had equal access to healthy food? To renewable energy? What if the Q train connected to Randall’s Island? The kids are reimagining the city and building it in Minecraft Education.

We visited schools, spoke to teachers, organizers and kids, saw the builds, and witnessed the finals. What we saw was an inspiration. Teachers, parents, and educators working overtime to create a tournament that challenges kids and gives them an opportunity to shine under pressure, in front of a crowd. They practice teamwork, coding, civic planning, and above all, they are given the power to imagine a city that works for them.

Making this documentary was a huge labor of love and of time. We filmed from January through July of 2025, and then I scripted and edited the film for publication on Polygon’s YouTube channel. It was an incredible challenge, but I’m extremely proud of how it came out.