🌟 Introduction

Paco's Anatomy is a fast-paced arcade game where players step into the role of a surgeon tasked with saving Paco’s life. Developed over just two weeks in October 2024 by a team of eight students as part of an AltCtrl game jam, this project blends quirky mechanics with chaotic fun. Through this work, I used my hardware expertise developing all electromechanical systems using 3D printing and resourceful engineering approaches.

The gameplay involves the players to physically place their head inside Paco’s mouth to view a 15” internal screen, then manage three simultaneous minigames (each accessible by a hole to in his body) within a 3-minute time limit, repairing failing organs under escalating pressure.

⚡ Electromechanical Systems

• Air Pump

  The system employs an air pump to propel a metal ball, creating electrical contact between cables linked to the mainboard

  I designed and 3D-printed components with ultra-precise tolerances to ensure smooth, reliable ball movement powered by air pressure

  
• Pull Ballon

  The mechanic uses a flour-filled balloon anchored to the structure, requiring players to pull it down to interact, creating unique tactile feedback

  Originally prototyping a pulley system, with the spatial constraints. I landed on using elastic bands and a 3D-printed ring, creating tension-driven contact between two wires

  
• Switches

  This is a box with simple switches hiden that you have to search with your hand

  I used my welding experience to add cable extension for this mini game

  
• Increasing Slider Mechanic

  I also made one of the three minigame in Unity

  It's a part of the game where you have to pull three balloons and you have three vertical sliders that you have to fill

  

📌 GDC