Over the course of 8 days from October to December 2023, I worked on a unique chess-like game with a twist, it's US football! Built in C++ using the SFML framework, the project challenged us to blend strategic board gameplay with the dynamic nature of football. My primary role was handling the game board and its interactions, ensuring intuitive and responsive mechanics. It was a fast-paced and rewarding experience, pushing me to refine my C++ and SFML skills while developing engaging game logic
Role : Gameplay Programmer
Team Size : 5 Programmers | 5 Artists.>>>>>>...
Time Frame : 8 Days
Engine : SFML | Using C++
This project was a unique challenge that tested both my technical skills and my ability to adapt board game mechanics into a digital format. The goal was to create a chess-like strategy game with a twist, incorporating the dynamics of US football. Developed in C++ using SFML, the game featured a 1v1 local mode where players eliminated enemy units, collected spawned footballs, and carried them into the opponent’s zone to score. Each point earned granted a bonus card, adding an extra layer of strategy
With only 8 development days spread across three months, the project required a focused and efficient workflow. My main responsibility was designing and implementing the game board interactions, ensuring fluid gameplay and intuitive mechanics. One of the biggest challenges was balancing strategy and accessibility, making each move meaningful without overwhelming the player
Through constant iteration, we refined the mechanics to create a satisfying experience where tactical thinking determined the outcome. This project pushed me to optimize my C++ and SFML skills under tight constraints, reinforcing my ability to create engaging and polished gameplay systems
With each new project, I aim to take on a fresh challenge. At the time, I was still relatively new to C++, yet I chose to tackle the most complex feature of the game—the game board and its grid-based system. My goal was to create an intuitive and responsive grid that allowed players to move their units strategically while ensuring smooth pathfinding for optimal movement.To achieve this, I:I
- Implemented a grid-based system in C++ using SFML.
- Explored and tested different pathfinding algorithms, including BFS, Dijkstra, and A*, to determine the best fit for our gameplay.
- Developed user interaction mechanics for seamless movement and decision-making on the grid.
Beyond the grid system, I also took on the responsibility of maintaining the project build. As new features were introduced, I ensured that the build remained stable, troubleshooting and resolving issues to keep development running smoothly. This experience pushed me to deepen my understanding of C++ while reinforcing the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in game development
I also took on the responsibility of maintaining the project build. As new features were introduced, I ensured that the build remained stable, troubleshooting and resolving issues to keep development running smoothly. This experience pushed me to deepen my understanding of C++ while reinforcing the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in game development
Additionally, I experimented with visual enhancements for the grid that ultimately weren’t implemented due to artistic direction. These included:
- Basic shader effects using simple yet effective mathematical interpolation to create dynamic visual effects
- Various color grading techniques to explore potential visual styles for better player feedback
While these visual elements didn’t make it into the final game, the process deepened my understanding of shaders and graphical effects, further expanding my skill set in game development
This project provided valuable learning experiences that strengthened both my technical and problem-solving skills. One of the biggest lessons was working with grid-based systems and implementing pathfinding in a strategic game. Testing and comparing algorithms like BFS, Dijkstra, and A* gave me a deeper understanding of how different approaches impact gameplay, leading me to make informed decisions based on efficiency and responsiveness
Additionally, I gained hands-on experience in maintaining a stable build throughout development. Ensuring that new features integrated smoothly without breaking the game reinforced the importance of continuous testing and debugging. This experience also taught me how to quickly identify and resolve issues, keeping development on track despite tight time constraints
Another key takeaway was the balance between technical ambition and artistic direction. While I explored shader effects and different color grading techniques to enhance the grid’s visuals, I learned that not all ideas fit within a project’s overall vision. This experience reinforced the importance of collaboration and adaptability, as well as understanding when to push for a feature and when to step back
Most importantly, this project strengthened my ability to approach problems with a structured, iterative mindset. From designing the grid system to optimizing movement logic, I learned the value of breaking down complex systems into manageable components. This helped me write clearer, more maintainable code, an essential skill I continue to refine in every project