Bugnauts!

Role(s): Creative Director, Project Manager

Bugnauts! Is a new kind of action game that mixes accessible 3D projectile gameplay with environmental education. It was inspired by 3D platformers & action games like Super Mario Odyssey and NieR: Automata. Players control Chloe, a young aspiring entomologist who must combat monstrous phantom bugs to save the environment of her home. It is aimed at teaching players about the connection between insect science and biodiversity and preserving environmental balance.

I designed, pitched, prototyped and directed the project as part of USC’s AGP (Advanced Games Project) Program. I was responsible for a multinational hybrid team of 40+ developers. I was in charge of recruiting team members and lead development efforts, working alongside designers, artists and engineers to create an engaging, educational gameplay experience in Unreal Engine 5.

In order to ensure the academic accuracy of Bugnauts, I reached out to the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation and secured advisory support from them, in addition to recruiting an in-house entomology expert from CalPoly SLO’s Environmental Science Program.

The game can be downloaded on steam here

Videos:

Concept Art:

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