The Dream (Best Student Game 2025 by ACI)

Briefing

Embark on a dreamlike journey as a determined robot climbing a majestic mountain to deliver a sacred flower. Explore a vibrant solarpunk world where hope and beauty meet surreal challenges in this atmospheric 3D platformer.

My Contributions

• Gameplay Programming Developed core gameplay systems and interactive mechanics in Unreal Engine.
  
• Cel & Outline Shader Development Created custom cel-shading and outline shaders to establish the game's stylized visual identity.
  
• Dream State Collectible & SFX Designed and developed the Dream State, the game's central collectible that allows players to set custom respawn points, including the creation of its SFX.
  
• Core Gameplay Mechanics Developed key gameplay features, including the Grappling Hook, Time Control ability, and advanced character movement systems.
  
• Cinematics & Presentation Produced teaser shots (gameplay & cinematics) and composed its original soundtrack.
  
• Game Design Designed gameplay systems, mechanics, and level progression.
• Character Movement Design Designed and developed responsive character movement mechanics for a fluid player experience.

Highlights

• 🏆 Best Student Game 2025 Winner (Affective & Cognitive Institute)

What I Learned

This project significantly strengthened my ability to lead a small team's development process, coordinate tasks, and balance different perspectives throughout production. By regularly stepping back and evaluating the game as a whole, I learned to identify inconsistencies in its design, mechanics, and overall gameplay experience, helping me assess what needed improvement to make the game more cohesive and enjoyable. Working extensively in Unreal Engine also deepened my understanding of Blueprints, gameplay programming, and shader development and implementation. Beyond development, I learned how to present a game effectively, communicate its core appeal, and spark interest in players through engaging visual and audiovisual presentations.

Team

• Astrid Pittschmann — Concept Art, Character Design, Title Typography
• Baran Yerlikaya — 3D Character Model + Animations
• Colin Coveli — Environment Design, Game Programming
• Maiko Peter — Level Design, User Interface Design
• Uzay Luzardo Utkubas — Game Design, Game Programming, Shader Development, Teaser + Soundtrack