Small Talk
2025-01 - 2025-01 Game 6 Jan 2025
Global Game Jam 2025 - University of Bordeaux
Technologies
Unity3D C#
Main skills
Voice Input Microphone API Game Design Level Design Physics
Links
Catchphrase
A 3D platform game where your voice creates the world.
About / Context
Small Talk is an innovative 3D platform game developed during Global Game Jam 2025 at University of Bordeaux in 48 hours. The game features a unique voice control mechanism where players use their microphone to create platforms and interact with the environment, controlling a lonely creature seeking friends in a post-apocalyptic world.
Features / Work Completed / Responsibilities
- Implemented voice control system with three platform types based on microphone input levels (whisper, talking, shouting)
- Designed 3D level layout combining voice mechanics with traditional keyboard navigation (WASD/ZQSD)
- Created environmental puzzles using volume-based platform creation and the Nature Spirit mechanic
- Integrated microphone input calibration system with adjustable sensitivity thresholds
- Developed interaction system for Altar objects and Nature Spirit control
Highlights
- Voice-controlled mechanics: Three distinct platform types based on microphone input levels (whisper, talking, shouting) with configurable sensitivity. This creates unique accessibility and engagement opportunities while enabling novel gameplay interactions.
- Novel interaction model: Microphone-based gameplay as a primary input method rather than supplementary feature, establishing new paradigms for voice interfaces in gaming.
- Combined control scheme: Seamlessly integrates voice controls with keyboard navigation (QWERTY/AZERTY) to solve environmental puzzles requiring both input types simultaneously.
Credits
- Team: 6 developers (Marc Cerutti, Nicolas Chevalier and 4 others)
- Programmers: Marc Cerutti, Nicolas Chevalier
- 2D Artist: Vincent Tran (Heidun)
- 3D Artist: Maixent Lataste
- Composer (Main Menu): Yazorius
- Composer (In-game Music): Matthieu Lailler (Regon)
Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| WASD / ZQSD | Move character |
| Space | Jump |
| Microphone | Create platforms (whisper/talk/shout volume-based) |
| Mouse | Control the Nature Spirit |
| E | Interact with Altar objects |
Notes
- Requires microphone for full gameplay experience
- Microphone sensitivity and threshold calibration available in pause menu
- Featured in Global Game Jam 2025 official showcase