Push Pull Puzzles
Push Pull Puzzles Is a turn-based platformer that teaches basic physics concepts to young learners. The game was created as part of Hero Elementary, a transmedia initiative led by PBS to improve STEM readiness in underserved communities.
Players learn the difference between pushing and pulling by using their superpowers to move objects.
In the game, players navigate two young heros through a series of whimsical gym obstacle courses. Players control two hero characters who place and manipulate objects to create a path for their lovable hamster companion, Fur Blur, to reach her snack.
Each level begins with the Planning phase, where players use their Superpowers of Science to investigate the problem and make a hypothesis about how to solve it.
The game models the Scientific Method by breaking up each level into two major phases: Planning and Testing. In the Planning phase, players observe the problem and make a hypothesis by placing objects in the world. Then, they test their hypothesis in the Testing phase by pushing and pulling their chosen objects around the environment. Players iterate through each of the phases until they solve the puzzle.
As players progress through the game, they unlock new characters with different abilities. Players can move big objects by shoving or yanking them.
As a game designer on the project, my responsibilities included:
Working with PBS to define the game structure, rules, and content
Co-developing the game narrative and dialogue to support the existing Hero Elementary IP
Designing and implementing 40+ game levels
Collaborating with engineers to create a client-facing level editor
Managing internal and contract team members
Players can unlock special bonus levels by earning stars. Bonus levels are extra difficult and synthesize a variety of learning concepts.