My Torah Kids
Unity, Iphone, Android, Google Play, AppStore, Firebase
Project overview
My Torah Kids is a collaborative endeavor in partnership with the non-profit organization My Edu Kids. This initiative is geared towards a youthful audience aged 7 to 13, with the aim of imparting knowledge about Jewish history and religion, alongside fundamental subjects like Mathematics, French, History, Geography, and more.
Technical details
MTK is now available as an app on both the App Store and Google Play, and you can also find it in APK format on the official website. Furthermore, a Beta version is accessible for Mac and Windows platforms. Let's break down the project structure:
Within the application, parents can create for their children "student" profiles, ensuring a secure and authorized process. On the other hand, "teacher" and "admin" profiles can be generated via the website, which serves as the central hub for content management within the game. This website operates as a comprehensive content administration platform.
All the content is housed in a meticulously structured Firebase database, fine-tuned for seamless integration of new material via the web interface. This content encompasses a range of elements, including courses, mini-games, and customization options, among others.
The player profiles are securely stored in compliance with Europe's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and there are strict measures in place regarding data storage, particularly concerning information pertaining to children.
In essence, the app and the web page function in tandem, interacting with the Firebase database to retrieve and update data, thereby ensuring a dynamic and enriching user experience.
My role
For a span of 9 months, I took on the entire project myself. I was the sole contributor overseeing every facet of its development. This encompassed the complete game flow management, from its initial development stages to its eventual release across various app stores. Additionally, I handled communication with the client, keeping them updated on the project's progress. To facilitate this, I implemented a weekly meeting framework in collaboration with the non-profit organization, ensuring transparent communication regarding project advancement.
Concerning the application component, my responsibilities included integrating new mini-games, managing the account and profile system, crafting new UI/UX designs, and overseeing the interactions with the Firebase API. While I wasn't the individual who initially constructed the Firebase database, I was tasked with implementing necessary modifications and additions, aligning them with the client's requirements. Thankfully, the non-profit organization had an external resource well-versed in Firebase and its API, which proved invaluable in aiding me with these tasks.
This venture presented an enriching challenge for me, and I particularly relished the aspects of the project that extended beyond direct game development, delving into the realm of project management. The client expressed immense satisfaction with my contributions, adding to the gratification I derived from the endeavor.
Gameplay Mechanics
The core of the gameplay experience revolves around educational lessons. To maintain engagement and prevent the lessons from becoming monotonous, specialized mini-games tailored to the target audience and subject matter have been integrated. These mini-games include straightforward activities such as multiple-choice quizzes, image selection challenges, word associations, spot-the-difference puzzles, drawing, and coloring exercises.
The app features a profile system that enables users to personalize their in-game characters. For instance, they can customize clothing choices and modify various aspects of their virtual homes to align with personal preferences. Multiple profiles can be created under a single account for added flexibility.
To enhance children's involvement, a virtual currency system has been introduced. This virtual currency adds an extra layer of engagement by allowing players to unlock additional customization elements. Parents also have the option to purchase this virtual currency for their children through a parental filter, ensuring a controlled and responsible approach. This virtual currency not only encourages interaction and learning but also fosters a sense of attachment and investment in their profiles.
Visuals and Sounds
When I came aboard the project, the graphic and audio style had already been established. Numerous assets were already created, which significantly aided me in crafting the forthcoming 2D assets for the game. From crafting interface concepts to designing engaging user experiences tailored to children, I took charge of incorporating new elements. I relied on works-in-progress assets as a foundation or created entirely new assets from scratch.
Resource €
The game's development began back in 2019 and has been ongoing ever since, extending to the present day. However, the company I was with ceased its involvement in the project by the end of 2022. I took over the reins of the project at the beginning of 2022, functioning as the sole team member dedicated to its advancement. I received external assistance for the project's backend tasks, and maintained a close collaboration with the non-profit organization.
As of now, the game has been downloaded over 1,000 times. Despite the inclusion of microtransactions, the game's primary objective is centered around education rather than profit generation. In fact, its main aim is to impart knowledge. Additionally, there is an option to make a donation to the non-profit organization via the following link if you're inclined to do so.
[Donation Link](https://mytorahkids.assoconnect.com/page/687792-faire-un-don)
