Overview

Technical Lead | Systems Programmer
(Custom C++ Engine; Team of 12)

"Inline: Out of Time" is an action-packed roller-skating platformer set in a vibrant retro-futuristic city.

As Technical Lead, I spearheaded physics programming and worked in tandem with designers and artists to establish effective content pipelines for level creation.

As Systems Programmer, I implemented key gameplay mechanics and progression systems to enable player engagement in a complete gameplay loop.

Responsibilities

  • Joined weekly technical reviews with industry professionals and mentors to coordinate over the project's development cycle.
  • Steered the programming team through the project lifecycle, facilitating goal-setting and progress assessments in weekly sprints.
  • Implemented core gameplay logic including gating level segments with turnstiles, saving best times upon level completion, and converting performance metrics into a 3-star rating.
  • Engineered the physics system and level content pipelines to allow for sloped environments and speed-boosting rails to deliver high-speed skating gameplay.

Technical Highlights

  • Achieved a 275% increase in frame rate through optimization of level geometry and collision detection.
  • Innovated a line collider algorithm for efficient level collision representation, including slopes.
  • Streamlined the content pipeline, allowing for efficient level design with props, interactable objects, and multiple layers of level art.

Team Dynamics

  • Managed weekly sprints and stand-up meetings, fostering a collaborative and goal-oriented team environment.
  • Navigated leadership transitions and established productive workflows across a multi-disciplinary team.

Design Contributions

  • Contributed to the game’s narrative identity through environmental graffiti, in-game CD artwork, and evocative achievement names.
  • Fine-tuned player control parameters, balancing the feel of platforming mechanics to ensure a responsive and enjoyable player experience.
  • Contributed some vocals to the game's soundtrack.

Player Reception

  • Conducted public playtests at Geek Xtravaganza, receiving valuable feedback that influenced final game refinements.
  • Garnered high praise from peers, mentors, and public playtesters, with strong support through public release.
  • Received 50+ reviews on Steam with over 90% positive ratings.

Project Insights

  • Developed leadership skills and technical expertise on a large-scale project.
  • Overcame design and development challenges by introducing agile methodologies and collaborative tools.
  • Traversed team dynamics through various positions, joining in early development and later being promoted to Technical Lead.

Media