The Biggest Challenge
The biggest challenge was transforming a childhood game idea into a complete, polished 2D action game using multiple AI systems while keeping the gameplay stable.

Our biggest technical breakthrough came during the HD visual overhaul. The new illustrated artwork initially caused severe frame-rate drops, particularly during boss fights. Through repeated testing, rendering optimizations, cached artwork, and adaptive resolution, we dramatically improved performance without sacrificing the upgraded visuals.

Coordinating different AI tools, preserving working builds, and making sure new features didn't break existing systems became just as important as generating the code itself.

AI Tools Used
Claude, ChatGPT, Grok, and Aubum (my own locally hosted AI system).

Claude created the original game and handled much of its subsequent development, including gameplay implementation, visual upgrades, and technical improvements. ChatGPT contributed Level 3, additional development, testing, visual direction, and release preparation.

Grok contributed three concept-art reference images. Aubum generated the game's original soundtrack locally.

I provided the original concept, creative vision, design decisions, and hands-on playtesting throughout development.

Areas Where AI Was Used
AI was used for game programming, debugging, performance optimization, visual design, concept art, illustrated game assets, character and enemy artwork, backgrounds, animation, cinematics, dialogue, interface design, and music generation. AI tools also assisted with testing, controller support, mobile compatibility, achievements, and release preparation. The original game concept, overall creative vision, project direction, feature decisions, and hands-on playtesting were human-led.