Overview

Physics Programmer | Level Designer
(Custom C Engine; Team of 6)

"Nowhere to Grow" is a poetic puzzle platformer that follows a teary-eyed onion on a quest of self-discovery. Using his tears to cultivate growth in a somber world, players navigate through cleverly designed levels to a touching conclusion.

As Physics Programmer, I engineered the game’s physics simulation and object management.

I devised the design premise, and I developed physics puzzle mechanics and level designs to complement the emotional arc.

Responsibilities

  • Constructed a memory management system utilizing linked lists for efficient tracking of resources such as textures and level objects.
  • Authored a custom physics engine that uses impulse resolution to resolve collisions, allowing diverse physics mechanics such as bouncing.
  • Designed and implemented interactive environment elements and character abilities to enhance the gameplay experience.

Technical Highlights

  • Impulse-based physics for puzzle elements, allowing for intricate player-driven interactions with game objects.
  • Entity management system with features such as automated destruction of unneeded objects and optimizations for shared resources.
  • Implemented a tile-based level pipeline prioritizing quick iteration and testing of level content.

Design Contributions

  • Conceptualized the game’s theme of growth and self-actualization, reflected in both narrative and environmental art.
  • Created challenging and diverse puzzles using a combination of pushable blocks, growable platforms, and interactive cloud mechanics.
  • Designed a climactic puzzle, complementing the narrative climax and pivoting from above-ground levels to the underground section.

Artistic Direction

  • Led the artistic vision of the game from concepts to assets with a focus on the pencil-on-paper style.
  • Contributed main menu art, environment art, and easter egg art, adding depth to the game's visual and emotional appeal.
  • Directed a unique live-action trailer starring a real onion to relate recognizable real-world elements with game elements.

Project Insights

  • Gained valuable experience in scope management and the importance of aligning project ambitions with practical timelines.
  • Enhanced understanding of gameplay mechanics, ensuring puzzles offer variety without compromising player progression or agency.

Media