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.
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As game designer, I collaborated on the design of mechanics, enemies, and in-level scenarios.
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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
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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
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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
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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.