Sci-Fi Jam is done and in the books

Greetings, Fellow Gamers and Developers!

I recently wrapped up my first game jam, a solo adventure where I brought a game concept to life, start to finish. This journey was not just about creating a game, but also a deep dive into self-discovery and pushing my limits.

The Solo Journey: Setting Realistic Expectations

Embarking on this solo, I set out with clear expectations rooted in independence. I knew leveraging community assets and tapping into my own skill set would be crucial. With just six days, the challenge was to craft something small yet impactful, a game that was complete in its own right and narratively engaging.

Introducing Please Destroy: A Cyberpunk Tale

Please Destroy emerged as a cyberpunk runner game, envisioned as the climactic explosion scene of a blockbuster movie. My goal was to evoke a whirlwind of emotions — doubt, guilt, anger — through the game’s simplicity. The narrative unfolds with each collected canister, mirroring the protagonist’s internal turmoil amidst chaos.

The Matrix-Inspired Choice

The game’s title, Please Destroy, hints at a mysterious entity guiding the player, reminiscent of the iconic red pill, blue pill choice from The Matrix. This pivotal moment — to detonate or not — sets the stage for the game, influencing its beginning and end.

Balancing Life, Learning, and Development

Juggling game development with daily life was an exhilarating experience. Utilizing my foundational knowledge of Godot and game design, I bridged gaps through research and experimentation. However, not every initial idea made it to the final cut.

The Unfulfilled Potential

I had envisioned a narrative where the runner, addicted to a power-boosting drug, could smash through obstacles. While the mechanics were partially implemented, time constraints led me to sideline this idea. Yet, this experience has fueled my enthusiasm for future projects.

The Power of Music

Music played a pivotal role, intending to evolve with the game’s dynamics. This aspect, though not fully explored, remains a key interest for future endeavors. The soundtrack, courtesy of Dalton Bergeron, was instrumental in shaping the game’s cyberpunk ambiance. Dalton’s contribution was invaluable, turning a good concept into something truly special.

Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues

This jam was more than just game development; it was a lesson in creativity, time management, and embracing the imperfect. The insights gained here are not the end, but a stepping stone to my next project, promising even greater adventures in game design.