Alexander Racey

My name is Alexander Racey and have been studying Computer Science with a focus of Games Development for over 6 years. In that time, I have developed a wide array of computational skills including general applications, object-oriented programming, data analysis, web applications, and more. I have become proficient with the agile approach of working within a team, and I am also very capable of working well independently to complete any task laid before me.

I have a strong passion for computer graphics, physics-based animation, vitual reality and general games development, and I aim to obtain a successful career working in the games industry. Aside from playing video games in my spare time, my other hobbies include watching movies and television, cookery and being an ardent fan of new wave and rock music.

The programming languages that I am most accomplished with are C/C++ and C#, as they have been utilised primarily throughout my university career. In addition to this, I have worked on various other projects surrounding concepts of video game development and software engineering. These projects include the languages mentioned previously as well as a broader variety of computer skills, including HTML, CSS, Python, the usage of game engines such as Unity, as well as various frameworks such as OpenGL and SFML.

Fluid Simulation (App)

A particle-based fluid simulation in C++ using OpenGL and SFML. This project represents an implementation of the Lagrangian equations for fluid dynamics.

The simulation used GLSL shaders to while rendering in real-time on the GPU. These shaders are incorporated into the implementation of metaballs as a replacement for particles.

Toy Tank BATTLES (Game)

A 2D top down tank game created in C++ using SFML. The project includes a protoype game engine, as well as a fully playable version of ToyTankBATTLES, including 3 levels and a simple menu system.

This project was co-developed with Milena Bromm (see GitHub for further details). All aspects of the production of this game were shared equally.

College of the Dead (Game)

A 2D, side-scrolling platformer set in a college overrun with the undead!

This game serves to create a fully functioning game project complete with detailed game design documentation. The final version includes 4 playable levels, different enemy types, a double-jump and dropdown movement system, as well as item collectables and power-ups!

This game was made using the GameMaker engine, with all assets being original creations, and some sprites inspired by classic platformers such as Mega Man and Super Mario. The project includes an in-depth game design document, featuring storyboards, concept art, and a detailed outline of how the project tackles core game design principles.

Click the button below to view the Game Design documentation for this project.

Gallery of Retention (Game/App)

A 3D and VR-compatible memory retention application constructed in C# using the Unity Engine. The application can also be used within a traditional flat-screen viewport, such as a regular computer monitor.

This project formed the basis for my 4th year dissertation at Edinburgh Napier University. It places users in a simulated environment of an Art Gallery, where they are asked to remember as many visual elements as they can, from what is present in the environment.

Two groups of users were tested, one who solely used the VR version, the other used the flat-screen version. Users were asked to answer questions on what visual information they can retain. Afterwards which the data gathered from these responses was used to compare the effectiveness of virtual reality as an tool to improve information retention.

LUMBERLAND (Game)

* COMING SOON - CURRENT PROJECT *

I am currently working on a 2D side-scrolling platformer with sandbox elements. Players will have to construct custom platforms using obtained resources in order to complete level-based challenges of increasing difficulty. The game will feature multiple enemy types, a melee and ranged combat system, and different weapon upgrades and abilities.

UPDATE: I am now commencing the prcoess of converting the project to 3D space and transferring development to the Unreal Engine. The reason for this is to enhance my abilities in making 3D games using an industry standard engine using C++ instead of C#.

Aden Training Portal (Web App)

This project is a web application developed for a real-world client and their business in organising training courses. The site was constructed using a Python Flask framework, as well as a combination of allowing for interaction between administrators and customers.

This project was co-developed with other users (see GitHub for further details), and it's success resulted in the development team being nominated for a prize by an educational body.