The theme of this game jam is ‘CONSEQUENCES’.

Considering the diversifiers, we wanted to aim for: 2-minute play time, a high score table and an underground train, our initial concept for a game was having a bomb on train, and your objective is to survive.

This concept allowed for a lot of feature creep. For this idea we had plans for multiple endings, with various ways you can survive (including disarming the bomb, stopping the train to run away and even throwing the bomb into a wormhole you can find). While the team enjoyed developing this concept it was obvious to most of us, we were massively over scoping. Another issue that started to arise was how exactly we were incorporating the theme into the game. As a solution we thought we would take inspiration from the trolley problem:

So, the main goal of the game would either be to save yourself or save the other passengers. The consequence of saving yourself is other passengers dying, and the consequence of saving other passengers is dying yourself.

After a team discussion about the direction of the game, and scope, we developed a new idea revolving around the food trolley on a train. This involves taking orders from customers and giving them what they want. We made a list of food and drink items that could be provided on the train, some of which are simple (like the chocolate bar) that only require you to give it to the customer. While others (like coffee) require you to pour and then hand to the customer without spilling any.

Some quotes from the team:

What did you learn during the jam?

“The importance of managing scope and condensing concepts.” – Alex

“Normal map baking.” – Louis

What did you enjoy about the jam?

“Working as a team and making a game.” – Sam

“Making a game with new people.” – Olly

What would you do differently next time?

“Sort out the repo before starting to work in engine.” – Alex

“Starting work sooner so people aren’t waiting on me.” – Kim