Game Development in JavaScript

Recreate one of the most iconic video games in history—Pacman—using the powerful Phaser 3 game development framework! This camp is perfect for aspiring game developers who want to learn how to build a complete game from scratch while mastering essential game design and coding techniques.

What You’ll Learn

• Game Map Design: Create a maze-like game map and add interactive elements like Pacman and pellets.
• Player Movement: Implement smooth and responsive character movement through the maze.
• Pathfinding AI: Program ghost enemies with intelligent behaviors using the A* pathfinding algorithm.
• Chase and Scatter Modes: Explore advanced AI techniques, giving each ghost unique chase and scatter behaviors.
• Game Mechanics: Add life counters, death animations, and the "blinking" scatter mode for dynamic gameplay.
• Game Polishing: Fine-tune animations, interactions, and visual effects to create a polished final product.

Camp Schedule

Day 1: Setting Up and Building the Basics

• Get started with Phaser 3 and set up your development environment.
• Design the Pacman maze and add the player character along with pellets.

Day 2: Smooth Movement and Pellet Munching

• Implement smooth movement controls for Pacman.
• Add pellet-munching mechanics and animations for satisfying gameplay.

Day 3: Ghost AI and Scatter Mode

• Introduce the ghost enemies and program their movements using A* pathfinding.
• Implement the scatter mode, where ghosts move unpredictably through the maze.

Day 4: Chase Mode and Blinking Scatter

• Add chase mode, giving each ghost unique AI behaviors to pursue Pacman.
• Program the blinking scatter mode, warning players when the scatter phase is ending.

Day 5: Lives, Death Animations, and Final Touches

• Add life counters and implement death animations when Pacman gets caught.
• Polish the game with sound effects, visual tweaks, and final gameplay balancing.

Who Should Attend?

This camp is ideal for students who:

• Have basic programming knowledge (preferably in JavaScript).
• Are interested in game design and development.
• Want to learn how classic games are built and how to recreate them.