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DEFENSORA SHIHUA

Defensora Shihua is a game where players protect the Amazon from threats, with every point earned converted into real square meters of preserved rainforest.

Project info

  • Genres: Endless / arcade

  • Project duration: January 2023 – March 2023 (3 months)

  • Team size: 4

  • Engine: Unity

  • Distribution platform: Google Play / App Store

  • Client: Arbio

  • Recognition: Videogame showcased at Game Devs of Color Expo 2025

  • References: Like A Dino!

My contribution

As game designer, I was involved from the conceptualization stage, creating multiple High Concept Documents to iterate on ideas with the client and consolidating the best concepts into a single proposal. I also designed the core mechanics, applying gamification principles to integrate the client’s values into the gameplay, as well as the progression system. Additionally, I managed communications with the client, discussing next steps, integrating feedback, and aligning the design with their vision.

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As a game developer, I programmed core gameplay mechanics such as movement, scoring, and enemy behavior. I also implemented visual assets and integrated sound effects into the game.

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As a UI artist, in my first experience in this role, I designed all the interface buttons and selected the color palette and typography for the game, using Figma to create and organize the UI elements efficiently.

Impact

Defensora Shihua reached over 3,000 downloads on Google Play and the App Store, and players accumulated 400,000 points, which translated into 40,000 m² of protected rainforest for a year. Beyond its direct environmental impact, the project demonstrated the power of combining video games with activism and collaboration, strengthened Arbio’s reputation with new brand partnerships, and received extensive media coverage in national and international outlets such as Forbes México, El Comercio, Infobae, Swissinfo, Mercado Negro, among others, increasing visibility for both the game and conservation efforts. Due to its merits, the project was also presented at the Game Devs of Color Expo 2025, an international event, further increasing visibility for both the game and conservation efforts.

Experience and lessons learned

Designing for Mobile Platforms

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This project marked my first experience in mobile game development, where I applied key design considerations specific to these devices. I carefully designed user interactions, optimized button placement, and adapted the interface to different screen layouts and resolutions, ensuring a smooth and engaging player experience.

Engaging Endless Games

 

This was my first experience designing an endless game, where I successfully applied strategies to engage and motivate players. I understood that players are driven by challenge and the opportunity to compete on a ranking board, and I designed and implemented the progression system to deliver a balanced and rewarding experience that keeps players engaged over time.

Stakeholder Engagement

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This project taught me the value of working closely with an engaged stakeholder. Clear communication and integrating their feedback throughout the process helped align design decisions with their vision. I also learned how to effectively communicate when an idea is challenging to implement, explaining the reasons clearly to ensure understanding and collaborative problem-solving.

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