Game Dev Challenge: Beat out ChatGPT

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Making of the Game
   1. Choosing Unity as the Game Engine
   2. Creating the Janitor's Closet
   3. Building the Prison Facility
   4. Designing the Cafeteria and Bathroom
   5. Optimizing the Game's Performance
3. Gameplay Development
   1. Implementing the Cleaning Mechanics
   2. Creating Immersive Cut Scenes
   3. Obtaining the Mop and Key
   4. Turning Prisoners into Guns
   5. Defending Against Hostile Guards
4. The Exciting Conclusion
   1. Remaking the Ending Room
   2. Comparing the Endings

The Making of a Game Using Chat GPT

Creating a video game is a complex and challenging process that requires careful planning, Attention to Detail, and technical expertise. In this article, we will explore the Journey of developing a game entirely using Chat GPT, a powerful language model. This unique approach presents both advantages and limitations, resulting in a game that may be unconventional but nevertheless intriguing and entertaining.

Introduction

The idea behind this game is to place the player in the shoes of a janitor working in a top-secret underground facility. The objective is simple: clean up dirt and witness the transformation of prisoners into guns using a mysterious machine. After turning a guard into a weapon, the player must escape from the facility. While the concept may sound absurd, it promises a unique and exciting gaming experience.

The Making of the Game

1. Choosing Unity as the Game Engine

To bring this game to life, the developer opted to use Unity, one of the most popular and versatile game engines available. Unity's strong community support and frequent updates ensure its continued success in the game development industry. With the foundation set, the creative process could begin.

2. Creating the Janitor's Closet

The game starts in a rather unattractive Janitor's Closet. Although lacking artistic finesse, the developer managed to Create a functional and believable space. By meticulously modeling objects such as shelves, beds, and cleaning supplies, an immersive environment was crafted. The attention to detail showcases the desire for a genuinely realistic experience.

3. Building the Prison Facility

As the game progressed, the development of the prison facility took Shape. The virtual world expanded to include an office, a lobby, jail cells, and a cafeteria filled with a plethora of food options (primarily beans, with some beans for good measure). Although prisoners remained unanimated at this stage, the developer expressed determination to address this matter at a later time.

4. Designing the Cafeteria and Bathroom

While the cafeteria boasts an impressive selection of food, attention was turned towards completing the bathroom. However, the inclusion of a mirror posed a challenge. Various attempts were made to create a functioning mirror using a render texture, but it proved unsuccessful. After extensive research, it was discovered that Unity provided a built-in mirror object, significantly simplifying the process.

5. Optimizing the Game's Performance

One significant issue that arose during development was the game's poor performance. Running at a low FPS, it became clear that optimization measures were necessary. Unity's profiler proved invaluable in identifying CPU resource allocation and rendering inefficiencies. To mitigate these issues, occlusion culling, a technique that only renders necessary objects Based on camera visibility, was implemented. While the optimization efforts were not perfect, they did lead to noticeable improvements.

Gameplay Development

With the groundwork laid, the developer's focus shifted towards creating engaging gameplay mechanics for the player.

1. Implementing the Cleaning Mechanics

Given the protagonist's role as a janitor, cleaning became a central gameplay element. In contrast to the monotonous dirt-cleaning task in the original game concept, the improved version provided a more Meaningful experience. The player's kind boss instructs them to go to the cafeteria, which, upon arrival, reveals an overwhelming mess of beans and food items. Through a combination of custom animations and an added mop tool, the player is tasked with effectively mopping up the mess.

2. Creating Immersive Cut Scenes

To enhance the game's narrative and provide clearer instructions, the developer experimented with cut scenes. These carefully crafted cinematics guide the player and create a more immersive atmosphere. Additionally, voice acting was employed to add depth to the characters and story. The developer, who happens to be a talented voice actor, invested time and effort into perfecting this crucial aspect of the game.

3. Obtaining the Mop and Key

In the original game, obtaining the mop and key posed a significant challenge, as they simply floated in the air. Determined to improve this aspect, the developer introduced a new animation layer within Unity. This layer allowed for the player's right arm to be animated uniquely when holding the mop or interacting with objects. This solution not only solved the issue but also added a layer of realism to the gameplay.

4. Turning Prisoners into Guns

One of the most bizarre and distinctive features of the game is the transformation of prisoners into guns. Although it may seem absurd, it adds to the game's unique Charm. The developer implemented a fascinating process involving a magnetized death machine. When a prisoner is positioned beneath the magnet, activating the machine results in their transformation into a weapon. This strange concept, although unconventional, contributes to the game's distinctiveness.

5. Defending Against Hostile Guards

To provide the player with action and suspense, hostile guards were introduced. These guards challenge the player by attempting to eliminate them using various methods. Armed with their trusty mop, the player must defend themselves and retaliate against the guards. While the mop's overpowering abilities may require some rebalancing, it ensures an exciting and entertaining player experience.

The Exciting Conclusion

In the original game, the ending was rather lackluster, consisting of entering a bright yellow room that fades to black. Taking inspiration from the original but also seeking improvement, the developer decided to add a door to the ending room. This simple addition subtly elevates the ending, making it slightly more engaging and satisfying for the player.

In a playful banter, both Al and the developer argue over whose game is superior. While Al critiques the progress made by the developer, it is evident that significant improvements have been accomplished. The player now has the opportunity to fully explore and Interact with the game's environment, engage in cleaning tasks, and witness the bizarre transformation of prisoners into guns.

In conclusion, the unforeseen approach taken by the developer to create a game using Chat GPT has led to a unique and captivating experience. Despite the limitations and challenges faced throughout development, the game showcases the developer's creativity, determination, and passion for game design. The end result is a game that may be unconventional in its gameplay mechanics, but undoubtedly offers an unexpectedly enjoyable gaming experience.

Highlights

• Unconventional game development process using Chat GPT
• Utilization of Unity as the game engine for enhanced development experience
• Meticulous attention to detail in creating immersive environments
• Optimization measures to improve game performance
• Incorporation of engaging gameplay mechanics, including cleaning tasks and combat scenarios
• Introduction of cut scenes and voice acting to enhance narrative and player immersion
• Unique and distinctive features, such as turning prisoners into guns
• Improvement of the original game's ending to provide a more satisfying conclusion

FAQ

Q: How long did it take to develop the game?

A: The developer invested a significant amount of time and effort into creating the game. While an exact timeframe is not specified, it is stated that certain aspects, such as stair optimization, consumed several days of development.

Q: Why did the developer choose Unity as the game engine?

A: The developer chose Unity due to its reputation in the game development community and its continuous support and updates. Unity provided the necessary tools and resources to bring the game to life.

Q: Are there plans to animate the prisoners in the game?

A: While the prisoners remain unanimated at the time of writing, the developer expresses a commitment to addressing this aspect in future updates. The focus was initially on creating the game's Core mechanics and environment.

Q: How does the game compare to the original concept?

A: The game showcases significant improvements over the original concept. The addition of immersive cut scenes, improved gameplay mechanics, and a more satisfying ending contribute to a more enjoyable player experience.

Q: What is the significance of turning prisoners into guns in the game?

A: The transformation of prisoners into guns adds a unique and quirky element to the game. While some might find it peculiar, it further differentiates the game from traditional gameplay mechanics, making it a Memorable and distinctive feature.