Blub Blub Bubble

Overview

Blub Blub Bubble is an innovative action game that won Best Game Design at Global Game Jam 2025(NYU). The game features a unique breath-controlled mechanic where players physically blow into their microphone to navigate a bubble through a challenging underwater obstacle course.

Game Mechanics

• Breath Control: Real-time microphone input allows players to control bubble movement by blowing into their mic
• Inflation System: Players must hover over their bubble to maintain its size as it naturally shrinks over time
• Obstacle Avoidance: Navigate around dangerous seashells and other hazards that can pop the bubble
• Power-up Collection: Gather special items to boost scores and gain advantages
• Vertical Progression: The gameplay revolves around guiding the bubble upward while achieving the highest possible score

Technical Implementation

As the lead programmer on the project, I developed several core systems:

• Implemented the real-time audio input processing that converts blowing strength into directional force
• Created the physics-based bubble movement system that responds naturally to player input
• Designed the bubble inflation/deflation mechanics that add strategic depth to gameplay
• Programmed collision detection and response for obstacles and power-ups

Development Process

Blub Blub Bubble was created in just 48 hours during the Global Game Jam 2025, where our team embraced the “Bubble” theme with a novel approach. The tight deadline required rapid prototyping, efficient team coordination, and focused implementation of core features.

Recognition

Our innovative use of unconventional input methods and satisfying game feel earned Blub Blub Bubble the Best Game Design Award at Global Game Jam 2025(NYU Game Center Site), standing out among dozens of competing projects.

Team

• Ruiqi Zhang (Me): Programming
• Mark Zhu: Programming, Game Design
• Shawn Xia: Programming, Game Design
• Wei Cai: Programming, UI Design
• Audrey Guo: 2D Art/Animation, Game Feel