A New Chapter: Game Development

In September 2025, I joined UC San Diego’s Qualcomm Institute as a Game Developer Intern, working on “The Climate Games: Into the Weeds” - an educational game about environmental challenges.

Technical Challenges

Working with Unreal Engine 5, I’m developing core gameplay mechanics focusing on:

Character Systems

• Character locomotion (movement, jumping, crouching)
• Animation state machines
• Input handling and response

Game Mechanics

• Resource management systems
• Physics-based interactions
• Inventory systems

Player Experience

• Immersion through environmental design
• User feedback integration
• Iterative gameplay refinement

Development Philosophy

I’m using both C++ and Blueprints to build robust, scalable, and well-documented game systems. The goal is to create mechanics that are:

• Intuitive: Players shouldn’t need a manual
• Engaging: Mechanics should enhance the experience
• Educational: Teaching environmental concepts through gameplay

The Learning Curve

Transitioning from robotics and systems programming to game development has been fascinating. Many concepts transfer:

• Real-time systems: Games run at 60+ FPS, similar to robot control loops
• Physics simulation: Game engines and robotics both need accurate physics
• User feedback: Whether it’s a game player or robot operator, UX matters

What’s Next

I’m excited to continue building systems that enhance player immersion and contribute to environmental education through interactive experiences.

---

Tools: Unreal Engine 5, C++, Blueprints, Version Control, Agile Development