Hey everyone! This page is dedicated to projects currently in the early stages of development, as well as prototypes that I\u2019m hopeful to secure grants or funding for through various applications. While some of these prototypes would require significant resources and may not move beyond the prototype phase without adequate funding, others will progress into full projects regardless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s take a look at some of the prototypes I\u2019ve been working on!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Notice 30\/10\/2024:<\/strong> Following the recent rejection of my latest grant application, I\u2019m saddened to say that I am shelving Happy Places<\/strong> for now. It\u2019s been a long journey, with countless hours spent refining grant applications, seeking feedback, and genuinely giving my best to create a project intended not to benefit my company but to help others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Though this decision is difficult, I have to move forward. Perhaps one day, with renewed energy, I\u2019ll be able to revisit Happy Places<\/strong> and take up the mantle once again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Happy Places<\/strong> is a project very close to my heart, designed as a Serious Game aimed at helping individuals who experience high levels of stress and anxiety. The game aims to integrate best practices from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into its core gameplay, offering a relaxing and immersive experience through the medium of games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The primary gameplay loop allows players to create their own “happy place,” a personalized environment where they can unwind and relax. Alternatively, players can choose a pre-built happy place if they need immediate comfort. Since everyone\u2019s idea of a happy place is different, the game offers complete freedom to craft a soothing space from scratch. Whether it’s a peaceful waterfall surrounded by nature sounds, a serene lakeside setting at the edge of a forest, or a cozy beach house with the gentle rhythm of waves \u2013 the choice is yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the heart of every environment, players can interact with a bench, triggering a zoom-in where the character sits down. From this vantage point, players can simply admire the world they’ve created, soaking in the sounds and visuals. If desired, they can engage in optional CBT exercises, such as breathing techniques, to help reduce stress. The experience is entirely free from pressure \u2013 no timers, no quests, no missions \u2013 allowing everyone to enjoy the game at their own pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The game will not feature any DLCs, subscriptions, or advertisements. Instead, it will be available for a one-time, affordable purchase, making it accessible to as many people as possible. I’m also eager to collaborate with mental health charities in Scotland and the wider UK to explore how this game can support their initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To bring this vision to life, my studio will handle the game development, while a partner from my university with expertise in CBT and psychology is ready to collaborate if we secure the necessary funding. The game is being developed using the Unity engine, with planned releases on both Steam and Android devices, including phones and tablets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite setbacks in securing funding, including an unsuccessful application to Create Catalyst UK<\/strong>, I remain hopeful. I am actively pursuing new opportunities, including a current grant application that I believe could help take this project from a prototype to a full release. Happy Places is a labor of love, and I am committed to bringing this calming, supportive experience to those who need it most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n