Summary
The Hackerman is an educational 2D platformer game developed using Unity and C#. The main goal is to teach players about computer hardware components in a fun and interactive way. Players take on the role of a character who must explore levels, defeat enemies, and collect key computer components like CPU, VGA, RAM, and more to assemble a complete computer.
Each time a component is collected, the player receives an educational explanation of its function and role within a computer system — turning gameplay into an engaging learning experience.
Problem
Many students and beginners in computer science find it difficult to understand how hardware components work because learning is often purely theoretical. The challenge was to create a more engaging and visual learning medium that combines entertainment with knowledge retention.
Goal / Use Case
- Create an educational game that introduces computer hardware in an interactive and enjoyable format.
- Combine platformer gameplay mechanics with learning moments about computer components.
- Design enemies and objectives that encourage exploration and problem-solving.
- Present learning material in short, digestible snippets after each item is collected.
- Make the learning process fun and accessible for all ages.
Impact
- Provided a gamified learning experience that helps players remember the purpose of each computer component.
- Showed how game design can be used as an educational tool for computer literacy.
- Strengthened player engagement through interactive learning and combat mechanics.
- Demonstrated the developer’s capability to merge game mechanics, storytelling, and education effectively.
Development Duration
Developed in approximately 2 months as a personal learning project using Unity and C#. Focused on level design, basic AI for enemies, collision systems, and event triggers for educational pop-ups after collecting items.