For my latest coding project, I combined the p5.js and Matter.js libraries to create an interactive game where the player controls a windmill to catch falling particles. The objective is simple yet addictive: catch as many particles in the moving goal as possible, aiming to reach 30 points before the timer runs out. The game features an interactive timer, a scoring system, and a dynamic win screen that displays the final time. Let’s take a closer look at the concept, code, and potential future improvements.
Concept
This project was inspired by classic arcade games, where the focus is on timing and precision. I wanted to create something that required player control and had a clear objective, so I added a rotating windmill controlled by the arrow keys and a particle-spawning system. The goal moves across the bottom of the screen, and every particle that lands inside scores a point. If the player scores 20 points, they win the game! After winning, the player can restart the game by clicking anywhere on the screen.
Embedded Sketch
https://editor.p5js.org/is2431/sketches/oE836dc9v
Reflection and Future Work
Reflecting on the process, I enjoyed exploring how Matter.js could be used to create physics-based interactions in a p5.js sketch. The windmill mechanism, in particular, felt satisfying to code as it introduced realistic physics to the player’s actions. However, one challenge was balancing interactivity and performance, especially when handling a high number of particles on-screen.
Ideas for Future Improvements
For future iterations, I’d like to explore the following improvements:
- Enhanced Visuals: Adding particle effects or animations when a particle hits the goal could add visual excitement to the game.
- Power-Ups and Obstacles: Introducing occasional power-ups that temporarily increase the windmill’s rotation speed or make the particles larger, as well as obstacles that reduce the score, could add depth and strategy.
- Difficulty Levels: Implementing levels with progressively faster-moving goals or smaller particle sizes would increase the challenge and extend playability.
- Mobile Compatibility: Adapting the game for mobile by adding touch-based controls for the windmill could open it up to more users.
I hope you enjoyed this walkthrough of my proje