For INFO 360 (Design Methods), I developed the idea for a game centered around climate change and navigating climate grief. Rather than presenting climate issues through statistics or abstract outcomes, the goal of the game was to create a world for players to exist in the future and reflect on cause and consequence through experiencing a strong narrative and vivid world-building.

For this design concept, I had to write a game design document in addition to some assets. I created the game environments using Unreal Engine Fortnite and modeled my first-ever 3D character in Nomad. Prior to this project, I had no experience with 3D modeling, making this a significant leap in my ability.

Learning an entirely new set of tools while also trying to follow a specific artistic vision pushed me far outside my comfort zone. The character, shown in progress in the image, took around 15 hours to model, as I learned the software in real time and iterated on the design. The process was challenging and often frustrating, but I felt really proud of myself by the end of it. 

This became a personal milestone instead of just a class assignment. Completing it furthered my desire to pursue work that blends game development and social impact, and showed me that pushing myself into unfamiliar creative territory is where I can grow the most. This project marked a clear step toward the kind of game design work I hope to create in the future.