Nerd Talk

keeping everything on one page

This is purely just a UX choice, if it's simple, why do I need to split it up (my former self could definitely have done with this lesson) - but I think it makes it smoother. Granted, not the best way to go about getting the best pagespeed, however for a pet project and for the things I wished to achieve, I think it works.

adding filtering for additional functionality bc, filters

Adding filters to IDK was a new challenge for me, as previous attempts relied on page reloads and lacked the 'remove' feature that is considered essential for a good user experience, and worked.. Sometimes.. Maybe. Implementing this feature required some more in depth SQL manipulation that I'd encountered, which was not my favorite part of the project. I've heard that SQL has a reputation for being a bit like marmite - you either love it or hate it - but it was definitely an enlightening experience and helped me enhance the functionality of the project and expand my understanding of SQL. It admittedly also helped me make this project a little more mainstream as steam is rife with 18+ games.. And I wouldn't be able to use this site to demo anything if not for filtering and having the current default filters set.

keeping the db far away/making the shuffles not have to rely on an external api

I built a Rest API that I'm now using to make calls, rather than relying directly on the Steam API. This not only improves security, as well as avoids the troubles of going directly to Steam API (such-as, timing out, lack of speed) but also streamlined the build process.
In addition, There is a separate script that grabs every game from Steam and fills the database. While this took some time and patience, the end result was worth it - the database now has an incredible amount of entries that will enhance the user experience. Overall, I'm thrilled with the progress I've made and can't wait for users to see the improvements.

and pagespeed, kinda..

Although I had previously prioritized fast initial page load times, I have since discovered the importance of finding a balance between performance and functionality. While I still adhere to minifying practices, I used to rely on page reloads to avoid any excess jQuery that could potentially slow down the website. However, I've learned that there is a happy middle ground that can be achieved, which is why I took a more experimental approach for my pet project. I would advise against this for SEO purposes, but for a personal project, it was a good and fun learning experience.

allowing users to search by either their username, steamId, or urls associated with their account

In the past, I relied on users to go to https://steamid.io/lookup to get their user ID, which could be inconvenient and lead to errors. However, I have now incorporated the 'resolvevanityurl' call from the Steam API to validate any username input. This means that users can simply copy and paste their Steam profile link, regardless of whether it contains an ID or username, and the shuffle function will still work seamlessly. While implementing this feature, I encountered some challenges due to the complexities of Steam's profile structure, with only the username being validated by the 'resolvevanityurl' call. However, I found a workaround to detect SteamIDs' validity, which makes the process much smoother as a whole.

having a feels section

I'm passionate about sharing the joy of gaming and helping people unwind and expand their minds. In this section, I've listed all the games that hold a special place in my heart and have brought me hours of fun and entertainment. These recommendations are purely from me and represent a range of genres and themes that I believe offer something for everyone. I'm constantly updating this section with new games that I discover, so feel free to check back and see if there's anything that appeals to you.

Filters Help

Nudity-

Sexual Content-

Clear Filters

Do I need to unprivate my games/profile?

Yes, and due to some new updates on steam, all users have games set to hidden by default. A few people have changed this, and it's up to you, just note that the system won't work if you keep your profile or games private.

What are the benefits of signing in?

It will auto-fill your Steam ID into the shuffle box. It will also keep track of your roll count - which is important for give-aways.

How do I keep track of rolls during a giveaway?

You will need to sign in to partake in give-aways.

How do I get my Steam ID?

You can simply sign in. Or you can right click your Steam profile, and click 'copy link' and paste that into the input box - it will do the hard work for you.

What is Steam?

Steam is a digital platform for purchasing and playing video games on a computer. It was developed by Valve Corporation and offers additional features such as social networking integration. Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms in the world, with millions of active users and a vast library of games.

- OR -

Casual
Adventure
Indie
Simulation

Communicate with the dead using a spirit board to solve an actual murder case in this interactive mystery. Ask your own questions to determine whether “the Black Widow” was truly guilty … or unjustly executed.

Release Date: 31 Jul, 2019

Single-player
Adventure
Casual
Indie
Simulation

Publisher: Flux

Developer: Flux

Languages: English*
*languages with full audio support

About The Black Widow

"The story is captivating" Forbes

"Gripping and well-told" Kotaku

"The Black Widow is an unnerving experience… Hearing the actual testimonies was haunting" Monstervine

“Eerie…spooky murder-mystery” Invision Game Community

“Wonderfully weird…a unique take on mystery solving” Extra Life

"The Black Widow is particularly poignant ...it’s rather cleverly designed" Digitally Downloaded

An interactive murder mystery unraveled by communicating with the dead …literally.

Faithfully reenacted from original court records and letters, the game allows players to investigate the true case of Australia’s first female serial killer. Ask your own questions to determine whether she was truly guilty – or unjustly executed.

This provocative format challenges players to reflect on their own prejudices and reconsider the verdict of a contentious legal case. Was the accused a callous adulteress, drunkard, and liar – or a victim of sexist expectations?

Key Features

Communicate with a convicted killer.
Ask questions using topics via a spirit board.
Delve into a complex and dramatic murder mystery.
Immerse yourself in a faithful, dramatic recreation of a Victorian-era court case.
Enjoy vivid graphics and an unnerving, atmospheric interface.

About The Black Widow

An interactive murder mystery unraveled by communicating with the dead …literally.

Key Features

I'm Feeling

Fran Bow

Two Point Campus

Cat Goes Fishing

Bio

Nerd Talk

About The Black Widow

An interactive murder mystery unraveled by communicating with the dead …literally.

Key Features

I'm Feeling

Fran Bow

Two Point Campus

Cat Goes Fishing