Experimental Pico 8 Prototypes
Game Designer2020.1-2020.5
︎Cell Cell Cell
︎VK Test
︎Elysium
︎Steam Train Simulator
About
PICO-8 is a virtual machine and game engine that emulates the 8-bit systems of the 1980s. I was introduced to PICO-8 in the "Pixel Prototype" class, taught by Gabe Cuzzillo, the creator of Ape Out. Throughout the semester, we were challenged to create a solo game prototype each week. This rigorous course solidified two insights for me: the importance of presenting a game's core mechanics through a concise prototype, and sophisticated graphics aren't essential for eliciting genuine player emotion. Below are four selected prototypes I crafted during this course.
Developemnt
Cell Cell Cell
"Cell Cell Cell" is a game inspired by cellular automata. It serves as a metaphor for the conflict between humanity and nature, metaphorizing the attempts to solve one problem often leading to the emergence of new challenges.
"Cell Cell Cell" is a game inspired by cellular automata. It serves as a metaphor for the conflict between humanity and nature, metaphorizing the attempts to solve one problem often leading to the emergence of new challenges.
VK Test
"VK Test" is inspired by the iconic Voight-Kampff Test scene from "Blade Runner". Players step into the shoes of Deckard, attempting to discern if Rachel is a replicant. Through metaphorical questions, players will shape the fate of the replicants.
Elysium
"Elysium" is a game inspired by cellular automata and functions as a landscape generator. Players can add, vary, or randomize pixels on the screen to craft their unique landscapes.
Steam Train Simulator
Players take on the role of a solitary steam train operator, responsible for managing every aspect of the train's operation. The primary objective is to halt the train at the station. To achieve this, players must handle mundane task of applying throttle and brakes, filling water, and loading coal.
