EXAMPLE : AS3, physics (APE) , generative art assets
Wanting to branch out into games and extend my skill set, I created these mini games as part of A.L.I.’s contract with Irving ISD. Using the Actionscript Physics Engine (APE) was a joy and provided a quick learning path for more feature rich and advanced physics engines like BOX2D, which I now currently use as often as I can.
Since these mini-games were much larger in scope than we usually spent on flash learning examples for Irving, I had to first clearly define the features, and identify reusable parts of each game to speed up the next game. The first game (TANK!) took just under two weeks, included learning time, planning and cleaning up the structure. The second (SHOOT!) took a couple of days. Particle generators with attached physics were created to be flexible enough to be an explosion from a bomb, bullets from a gun, or even gas emitters and flame thrower particles.
The base file, and objects created serve as our standard structure in all APE base flash projects, allowing physics in projects like Presheads to be created in a few hours.
Obviously, the art was kept simple, lightweight and symbolic. Trees and water are generated on the fly as are most obstacles.