UI | Game Design | Barn Bashers

Project Overview

Barn Bashers is a fast-paced, local multiplayer arcade game where four players battle to become the best fruit-collecting farmer in under a minute. Built in Unity2D using C#, the game combines competitive PvP mechanics with charming pixel art and energy-based gameplay to create chaotic, quick-session fun.

Barn Bashers showcases creative design, technical collaboration, and polished execution – earning top marks and positive peer reviews.

As Lead Developer, I oversaw gameplay systems, player controller logic, energy and health mechanics, and overall game flow. I worked closely with two other team members to bring the concept to life and deliver a complete, playable game for both Windows and macOS.

Services Provided

Game Design

Game Design | Barn Bashers
UI Players Winning Screen | Game Design | Barn Bashers

Problem & Goals

The challenge was to create a compelling local multiplayer experience from the ground up under strict time constraints and with a focus on fast, replayable gameplay. The goal was to design a 4-player game that would be fun, chaotic, and intuitive to pick up, yet still reward skill and strategy.

Core Goals Included:

  • Design a local PvP game loop that delivers excitement in short bursts (average session: 1 minute).

  • Implement a responsive player control system that supports 4 simultaneous players using PS4 controllers.

  • Create unique mechanics—such as an energy bar tied to movement and combat—that adds depth to a simple objective (collect the most fruit).

  • Ensure smooth performance and game balance across Windows and macOS builds.

  • Deliver a polished, visually cohesive product with clear UI, responsive inputs, and satisfying game feedback.

My Role & Contributions

As Lead Developer, I was responsible for core gameplay programming, systems design, and overall technical execution. I worked closely with the other developer and our artist to create a cohesive and fun local multiplayer experience from concept to release.

Key Contributions:

  • Gameplay Programming: Developed key mechanics including fruit collection, player health and energy systems, melee combat, and respawn logic using C# in Unity2D.

  • Controller Input Handling: Implemented local multiplayer controls using PS4 gamepads, ensuring responsive movement, sprinting, and attacks for all 4 players simultaneously.

  • Game Balance & Tuning: Adjusted energy loss rates, heart placements, and scoring logic to ensure tight, competitive matches.

  • UI/UX Design: Created player HUDs displaying energy bars and scores, and provided on-screen instructional prompts to guide new players.

  • Build & Deployment: Built and tested the game for both Windows and macOS, ensuring compatibility and performance across systems.

  • Project Management: Coordinated milestone goals, maintained version control with Git, and ensured team alignment throughout development.