HANDITS
BACKGROUND
The Capstone course at McMaster University's Computer Science Department is a year-long project where small teams complete a major project using the knowledge gained from the previous years. I had the opportunity to create my first video game under the supervision of Dr. Spencer Smith.
The game (an intro-level demo), is a 2D puzzler/platformer that challenges players to control a character's hand using a mouse or joystick. Players use the hand to manipulate the environment by tossing, grabbing, pulling, and pushing pushing to safely navigate a dangerous world."
HOW IT WAS MADE
The game engine we used for the project was Unity, and we developed many C# scripts to control the game's functionality.
We applied game design principles and maintained an ongoing Game Design Document to organize our ideas and plan the development process. Our first deliverable was a Proof of Concept showcasing the main mechanics. Playtesting allowed us to continually refine the game and improve its playability.
Our group effectively employed Scrum methodology to maximize productivity during our two full-time semesters. We held weekly sprint planning meetings and divided tasks related to game development. This project utilized various aspects of our computer science education, including programming, algorithms, and software engineering principles. It also involved problem-solving, teamwork, and project management skills."
LEVEL 1
In Level 1, both players must reach the end to complete the stage. To solve the puzzle, one player must lift their partner over the middle block so they can detonate the TNT. The TNT causes a boulder to fall, so one player must grab a torch and ignite a barrel beforehand to clear a safety
The grabbing and throwing mechanics were less precise than expected, but this added an element of humor. The aim was to create a challenging experience that pushed the players to the edge of frustration without losing the fun.
