Wirun
A platformer that teaches macroalgae ecology through exploration and tangential learning.
What it is
Wirun is a pixel-art platformer for science outreach. Players learn about macroalgae and coastal ecosystems by exploring, experimenting, and noticing patterns—knowledge emerges through play rather than pop-up tutorials (tangential learning).
Background
The game’s ideas were shaped after a field trip to the Estación Costera de Investigaciones Marinas (ECIM). Concepts we discussed with researchers—kelp morphology, currents, grazing, pollution, and habitat resilience—guided the mechanics, enemies, collectibles, and level goals.
How it teaches
Short, replayable levels reward observation. Environmental rules—like light, depth, and shelter—surface via cause-and-effect. UI and pickups mirror ecology, and players practice systems thinking: collect, protect, and restore habitats under changing conditions.
Core loop
Move, jet, and interact to collect items, avoid or calm grazers, and complete micro-goals that restore local balance. Feedback is readable at a glance; difficulty scales with each area’s rules.
Status & next steps
This is a working prototype used in outreach demos. Next steps: co-design lesson hooks with ECIM educators, add localized text, and expand level variety for a short classroom module and a web build.