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schwandh edited this page Jun 3, 2012 · 3 revisions

Welcome to the ADL-STEM wiki!

Summary

This project was undertaken as a submission for the ADL Mobile Challenge

Compound Collider is a chemistry-based mobile application developed with Marmalade to address common science misconceptions for users in the 9-12 grade range. This application is being designed as a game to better engage the user and explore using game mechanics for inquiry-based education.

Game Concept

Collision Theory in chemistry can be challenging to grasp. This game exposes users to the concepts in a way to address the common misconception that atoms in a space will spontaneously react to form compounds. The reality is that energy is required to create these bonds and they only form in particular, balanced configurations. This game presents these concepts in a fun, challenging, and inquiry-based environment.

Each level challenges the user to appropriately combine atoms to assemble into the target molecule. Each level has an initial seed molecule to being. Subsequent atoms are retrieved from an inventory and injected into the game area. The injected atoms must impact the existing atoms with the appropriate energy level (speed) and in the appropriate location. As levels increase, the size of the target molecule and the complexity required to construct the molecule will increase. In addition, there may be other atoms in the game area that block the target atom. As the atoms interact, physics and momentum will be preserved and further complicate the creation of the target molecule.

Game Mechanics

TBD

Game UI

Welcome/Title Screen

TBD

Main Game Screen

TBD

  • Majority of screen as game area
  • Tool-box of atoms on the right
  • Target chemical formula in background of game area

Help Screen

TBD

Game Controls

Decide from the following:

  • Plunger for atom injection (speed and aim)
  • Flick based for atom injection (speed and aim)
  • other?

Game Audio

TBD

Tasks

(In no particular order)

  • Create game title
  • Create game icon (required by competition)
  • Create documentation (required by competition)
  • Find physics engine (similar to pool)
  • Design levels (3 minimum)
  • Integrate audio
  • Character (atom?) design GOOGLY-EYES REQUIRED