Splatchemy! transforms spaces into playful discovery zones to reimagine public spaces.
2025
Overview
Splatchemy! combines Gaussian splat technology with intuitive object interactions to create an experience that turns a simple park gazebo into a vibrant sanctuary where players can experiment and create. The game is designed to be a Web3D experience, allowing players to access the game from any platform and reimagine the world around them.
Problem
Public spaces like parks and gazebos often remain static and underutilized. These spaces have the potential to be transformed into new, more engaging spaces that foster creativity and play. Splatchemy! aims to breathe life into these spaces through gaussian splats and 3D objects.
Solution
Splatchemy! transforms static public spaces into interactive environments, creating new opportunities for community engagement in public spaces, creative exploration, and environmental appreciation through digital augmetations.
Process & Challenges
The development of Splatchemy! presented unique technical challenges that required unique solutions and workarounds. For example, there is currently no built-in prefab system to reuse preconfigured objects. I developed a workaround by iterating through all components of an entity and applying them to a newly spawned one, effectively cloning the object. This approach allowed me to dynamically spawn objects with consistent configurations.
This project was my first experience with 8th Wall, and I had to learn how to use the Niantic Studio from scratch. This was also my first deep dive into TypeScript and JavaScript, which provided an additional layer of complexity to the development process. The Niantic team provided such a great environment for learning and so many resources to help me get started. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with them.
Niantic Studio editor
Code snippet for cloning entities
Special thanks to…
George Butler - for being such an amazing mentor within the program. Your extensive programming expertise and constant support were invaluable. Thank you for all the support you offered both online and offline.
Evan Carlson - for being so willing to help and provide technical guidance early on. Without you, I would have been lost in the sea of TypeScript and JavaScript struggling to understand Niantic Studio’s API for ages.
Pablo de la Hoya - for your exceptional program leadership and ensuring we had access to all the Niantic resources we needed. Your guidance and support were instrumental in the success of this project.
Next steps
The vision for Splatchemy! extends beyond its current implementation, with potential to expand into a full-fledged game that allows players to explore and create in a variety of shareable environments. Through gaming, Splatchemy! aims to foster creativity, community engagement, and environmental appreciation in public spaces.
