Build or Die
A dice based citybuilder
In July 2022, I teamed up with a friend to participate in the highly anticipated GMTK Gamejam 2022. Having been an admirer of this GameJam for years, I was eager to finally take part in it myself. However, there was one obstacle that had held me back.
While I had experience in creating 3D models and UI for games, my coding skills in C# were not yet at the level required to develop a complete game on my own. To overcome this challenge, I reached out to a trusted friend who agreed to join forces with me. Together, we embarked on this exciting project, and as the gamejam commenced, the theme 'Roll of the Dice' was revealed.
During the initial brainstorming session, we generated numerous ideas, eventually settling on a dice-based city builder concept. The game involved managing resources and constructing a thriving city, with the added twist that a disaster would strike after a certain period of time. Adequate preparation was crucial to avoid losing the game.
Although our ambition was to create a fully polished game within the 48-hour timeframe, we faced unexpected setbacks. Unfortunately, my friend fell ill and was unable to contribute fully on the first day of the gamejam. Despite my best efforts to make progress in coding and expand my C# knowledge, we ultimately fell short of completing the project.
Nevertheless, the experience was incredibly valuable and enjoyable. I witnessed significant growth in my coding abilities and gained valuable expertise in 3D modeling using Blender. This gamejam served as a tremendous learning opportunity and boosted my confidence in tackling future coding challenges.
Year
2022
Category
Game Development
Role
3D artist, UI Designer, and programmer
Made for
GMTK GameJam 2022
A yearly Gamejam hosted on Itch.io, with the theme for the year 2022 being 'Roll of the Dice'
Tools and stack
Unity, Blender, C#
Brainstorming
At the start of the gamejam, we received the theme 'Roll of the Dice'. We engaged in a brainstorming session to explore various game ideas, ranging from a dice-based roguelike to a dice-based strategy game. After evaluating the requirements and potential of each idea, we settled on 'Build or Die', a dice-based city builder game.
Day 1
On the first day, my friend was unable to participate due to illness, so I took charge of the development. I worked on several key elements, including 3D modeling the dice, implementing the dice rolling mechanics, creating an inventory system for dice rolls and resources, setting up a wave timer, and adding an indicator for upcoming disasters.
Day 2
On the second day, my friend joined me, and we divided our tasks. I handed over the code to him while focusing on the art aspects of the game. I created all the 3D models, designed a logo, and started working on the UI. As the deadline approached, we realized that completing the game within the given timeframe was no longer feasible. Certain features, such as menu integration, a phase system, and bug fixes, remained unfinished.
Conclusion
Although we did not meet the original deadline, we continued working on the game for a brief period after the jam. Despite the setback, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. I had significantly improved my C# skills and honed my art abilities during the intense two-day development period. It was a valuable learning experience, and I eagerly anticipate participating in the gamejam again in 2023.