Introduction
Welcome to a personal narrative of code, creation, and discovery. Today marks a special milestone for me – it’s been 6 years since I embarked on my professional journey in software development. Reflecting on this, I’m thrilled to share my voyage from a childhood enthralled by gaming to a career in a field that never ceases to evolve. As someone with a foot in two worlds – game design and software development – this blog is a tale of my dual passions.
The Genesis of My Coding Odyssey
My relationship with video games started early, playing Sonic 2 on my brother’s Sega Genesis. Titles like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro on my own PlayStation further fueled my ambition. By Grade 9, I was determined to design my own games. I began crafting fan games of beloved animes like Yu-Gi-Oh! and Dragonball using BYOND (Build Your Own Net Dream). This early exposure to coding and game design was more than a hobby; it was the foundation of my future career.
Academic Foundations
My university’s “Serious Games” degree melded educational focus with gaming. It taught me how games like Pokémon Go, while seemingly simple, can significantly impact lifestyle and health. Here, I met an array of individuals: a game reviewer, an aspiring teacher, and a programmer who became my first role model. His emphasis on starting early was a wake-up call for me, a habitual procrastinator, and reshaped my approach to work and study.
From Passion Projects to Professional Pursuits
My university years were marked by two significant projects. The first, a Yu-Gi-Oh! fan game, was a foray into community-driven development and an early brush with the complexities of creative ownership and public response. This project was both a technical challenge and a lesson in navigating community politics.
The second, “Shadowy Thoughts,” birthed under Galaxsi Studios, was a more personal endeavor. Built in RPG Maker MV, it was a solo project, a narrative-driven game exploring themes of mental health. This project was not only a technical challenge but an emotional journey, mirroring some of my personal struggles.
Entering the Professional Arena
In 2017, my transition from university to the professional world was serendipitous. I joined a telecommunications company initially for a front desk role but soon found myself in software development. My background in game development, knowledge of HTML, CSS, SQL, and experience from my personal projects made me an ideal candidate for more technical roles. This was my stepping stone into the software industry.
Looking Ahead with Galaxsi Studios
Galaxsi Studios represents my vision for blending creativity with productivity. My experiences in both the gaming and software industries fuel my ambition to develop unique software and games. I foresee AI playing a significant role in these industries, and I’m eager to explore this intersection.
Sharing the Wisdom
To those at the start of their journey in software or game development:
- Never hesitate to ask questions. They are the stepping stones to learning.
- Acquire basic skills in JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. They are invaluable in any tech-related field.
- Embrace reading and research. Google, and perhaps in the future, tools like ChatGPT, will be your allies.
Conclusion
Every developer’s journey is distinct, and this blog post is a window into mine. It’s a tale of continuous learning, adaptation, and the pursuit of fulfillment through creation. Reflecting on the past six years, from early gaming experiences to professional software development, each phase has been a critical part of my growth. As we look forward to the future, I invite you to join me in exploring the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of technology, sharing your stories, and growing together in this exciting field.
