MATEO CAYO
PROJECT MANAGER AND GAME DESIGNER
AERODASH
Aerodash is a 3D shoot 'em up where you pilot a prototype aircraft through a simulation, using precision maneuvers and firepower to overcome relentless waves of enemies.
Project info
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Genres: 3D shoot 'em up
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Project duration: March 2023 – July 2023 (5 months)
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Team size: 6
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Engine: Unity
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Distribution platform: Itch.io
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References: Starfox 64
My contribution
As project manager, I assumed the role for the first time, learning to create schedules, manage task interdependencies, and handle risks and delays, always prioritizing the delivery of value to the player.
As game designer, I collaborated on the design of mechanics, enemies, and in-level scenarios.
As game developer, I contributed by programming the functionalities of certain enemies and power-ups. I also implemented scenes, handled navigation between them, and contributed to special effects.




Experience and lessons learned
First 3D Project
This was my first 3D project, which presented a new challenge. Although I was already familiar with workflows for 2D games, working in 3D required me to learn how to adapt the tools and methods I knew to this new environment, adjusting workflows and processes to be effective in three dimensions.
Project Management Kickoff
For the first time, I took on the project manager role as essential. It was a somewhat intimidating challenge, but over time I settled in and the team and I found our rhythm. In previous projects, I had led small teams and focused on development, but this time I concentrated on organization and learning from the experience.
Shaping Player Experience
In this project, I gained a clear understanding of the critical role of feedback and how it can significantly shape the player experience beyond the information presented. A game’s perception can also vary depending on the quality of its sounds and effects, which guided my design decisions.