Worship the Penguin: Adventures with sprites, chiptunes, and lasers

Abstract

This paper provides a review of recent projects developed through the author's creative practice and activities across multiple computing and games technologies platforms. These include: a 2D game project made in Unity; an Arduino-based laser puzzle; chiptune breakbeat music made on a Commodore 64; the archival of a collection of Amiga demoscene disks; PETSCII graphics; a controller adapter for the Amiga; and a DJ/VJ performance. While playfully exploring new trajectories, these projects broadly reflect on-going themes present in the author's previous work, such as explorations of the aesthetic paradigms presented by vintage computers, 1990s rave culture, and synaesthesia. The paper will address the various challenges and methodologies used to realise these projects; pedagogical considerations; and the pandemic context in which they have been created and presented.