A Game Box

The idea of the final project is simple, straightforward, and hopefully fun — a game box which lets players physically control the joystick, sliders, buttons, and keys in p5.js sketch/sketches.

Below are some initial thoughts, which will definitely be refined as the discussions are made during the following classes.

• option 1: A box with screen — maybe an iPad which connects to the Arduino via bluetooth, so the screen is removable? In this case the resolution of the screen and the game/games does not need to be considered.

• option 2: Screen can be fixed, depends on what type of screen it is and also the resolution of the project. (or maybe simply build a pixelated bouncing ball game in p5? it’s a bit too limited)

• option 3: A game box with sliders, buttons, keypads, perhaps a joystick mounted on one of its surfaces. Users can open p5.js on their computer, simply plug in a cable and then run the game — this might be the most versatile way because it will not limit in one bouncing ball game but multiple games that need inputs from sliders, buttons, or keypads. In this case, each slider, button, or the keypad will probably get an LED light to indicate the players whenever they are in use. Or, each physical item can be surrounded by a light bar and the light color can be soft and warm. Ultimately, there will be a web page which contains a series of sketches in p5.js so players can choose the one/ones they want to play, by purely, physically controlling the game box.

Items needed:

• toggle switch

• slide potentiometers

• push buttons

• keypads (numbers only)

• led (for option 3)

• joystick

• speaker and volume adjusters (for option 2 only. in option 1 and 3, the sound can be played from the iPad or the screen/computer)

The goal is to design and make a highly, delightfully, and delicately completed project. The “comp” part does not need to be too sophisticated, however, the “p” part — the quality of the box is important and will become top priority. Choosing the perfect sliders, switches, buttons, joystick(s) and keypad is crucial. The project aims to bring users joy and pleasure. The physical interaction parts can be heavy, made out of metal(brass, etc.), and durable. Color theme: maybe off-white plus some retro style colors if plastic is chosen, but not goofy or intentional. Or, simply use hard wood and brass (which I personally prefer). Generally speaking, it needs to be done tastefully.

Thinking about how to deal with the wires and connections is also part of the design. The interior can also be tidy, organized, and pretty. Inspired by some modern desktops, maybe one of the sides can be transparent? More discussions will be made.