2024 Young Game Designers: the winners

Unplugged immerses players in a puzzle game where they play as a plug, powering electrical components, using your battery and wire to reach plug sockets. Connected to a battery via cable, players power conductors to activate components like fans, doors, and lifts to assist the plug's movement. Logic gates such as and/or gates change the interactions of the components, meaning the player must think logically about the puzzles. With limited cable length and a blend of logical and creative thinking, players must devise optimal paths through each level. The open-ended narrative invites players to create their own stories and lore behind the game.

DnB Bullet Hell is a fast-paced, pattern-based dodging game synced to the rhythm of drum and bass music. Dodge the bullet makers, each firing in a variety of ways based around the music. Players have two abilities to aid them through the levels. Staying close to the centre while minimising hits maximises scores.

The Whispering Wilds invites players into a world of ancient magic. Assume the role of a witch disguised as an apothecary, travelling through an open world. While making medicines for villagers to learn about the world's magical plants and their medicinal uses, they will discover the secrets of four hidden covens (dusk, dawn day and night) forced into hiding. Players travel to sky islands, deep forests, and ocean depths, mastering spells to transform into animals and uncovering puzzles. With a cel-shaded art style and multiple endings, the game offers a playable art piece that appeals to all ages, fostering appreciation for its rich world and history while blending peaceful farming sim elements with open-world RPG adventure.

Collateral Damage is a fun, frantic fast-paced 2D side-scrolling platformer where players control George the Caretaker amidst epic battles between superheroes and giant robots. Tasked with cleaning up damage from these battles, George races through vibrant locations like Strummerville City and Umbaby Beach, using tools like tow trucks and brooms. Players must dodge debris and stray fire while limiting enough damage and not getting hurt to win each level. Inspired by comic books and cartoons, the game features a bright, humorous art style. With adjustable difficulty modes and a quirky narrative, it appeals to players of all ages seeking chaotic, precision gameplay and light-hearted fun.