Game Development and Me

I have been interested in game development since college. I enjoy software engineering and game dev covers so many interesting domains: graphics, sounds, physics, AI, data management, I/O, networking, design patterns and more.

I like being a game designer too. I have played a lot of board games and video games. I like coming up with interesting things based on what I like and think other might enjoy too. This is an area I have been trying to develop myself more.

I always had an interest in art though I was never formally trained. I have explored 2d drawing, pixel art, 3d modeling and vector art through games.

Storytelling is also really cool. I read a lot and like the idea of using interactive medium of games to tell stories. I spend some time learning more about how this craft works too.

Cinematography is another part of games that is less obvious but that is relevant especially in 3D. This has prompted me to look there for ideas as well.

I never learned anything about music really other than listening to it. Games have even motivated me to learn more about making music and sounds.

Plus, games are just fun to play of course and that I have liked to do since I was a kid.

Jam Experience

My first jam was the 2014 7 Day Roguelike Challenge. I have participated in it each year since. I like procedural generation and the idea of permanent consequences. Admittedly, I am less of a fan of turn based movement. I still want to adhere to the traditional roguelike definition and have made those games as close to it as possible. Since starting 7 DRL, I have participated 10 times as of 2024. I succeeded at finishing a game 8 times. 

I tried half heartedly to join Ludum Dare a couple of times. For LD48 I got to about 3/4 of a heart but decided to wrap up and ship my game anyway. I was really glad I did because I really enjoyed the community interactions I had. I was determined to do it again and set aside a whole heart for LD50. It was a great experience again and I would recommend it!