Ethan Navarro

Vilanova y la geltru, Barcelona

About

Hello, I'm Ethan Navarro, Specialized in Unity and C#, with forays into Unreal and knowledge in Lua and C++, my passion for game development and virtual reality experiences has led me to explore and create virtual worlds for over 6 years. I've spent the last year working with a company, but my journey in game development started long before that.

I'm a passionate creative, always seeking new ways to innovate and design exciting gameplay mechanics. Since my childhood, my insatiable curiosity has driven me to research and constantly expand my knowledge. In my free time, I enjoy immersing myself in the world of video games and film, which fuels my inspiration to keep creating impactful experiences.

Skills

Programming

Tools & Engines

Portfolio

GRAPAT DE BTC VR ESCAPE ROOM

Lead Developer, Programmer, Team Leader

VR escape room about the risks of biometric data and cryptocurrencies. I led the development of 5 minigames, AI integration, and optimization for Pico4. Achievement: Polished and educational VR experience. Technologies: Unity, C#, Netcode, AI, VR.

POMPEULAB VR EXPERIENCE

Puzzle Designer, Programmer, Team Leader

Linear VR experience with minigames and photogrammetry environments. I led puzzle design and asset optimization. Achievement: Complete and satisfactory delivery for institutional client. Technologies: Unity, C#, Pico 4 SDK, Blender.

NANOSCOPE

Shader Programmer, Asset Integrator, Player Logic

Underwater VR experience with AI integration and custom shaders. Achievement: Immersive and visually impactful narrative for Oculus Quest. Technologies: Unity, C#, Shader Graph, Oculus SDK.

LLUIS ACURA VR MINIGAME

VR Developer, Gameplay Programmer

Educational VR minigame for document sorting. Achievement: Functional and optimized educational experience for students. Technologies: Unity, C#, OpenXR.

FUNDACIÓN RAFAEL DEL PINO VR RESEARCH APP

VR Developer, Interaction Programmer

VR app for educational research with hand tracking and real-time data visualization. Achievement: Successful deployment at a national event. Technologies: Unity, C#, OpenXR, SQL.

ISE MIXED REALITY APP

Level Designer, Gameplay Programmer

Underwater cleanup game with hand tracking and multiplayer. Achievement: Successful presentation at ISE. Technologies: Unity, C#, OpenXR, Netcode.

Produktia Remote VR

Lead Developer, Multimedia Programmer

VR/mobile app with video calls, 360 player, and remote control. Achievement: Published on App Store. Technologies: Unity, C#, WebRTC, Netcode.

Toon Zombie Third Person Shooter

Developer, AI & Shader Programmer

Cartoon 3D shooter inspired by Zelda, with AI and custom shaders. Achievement: Complete game and positive feedback on character design. Technologies: Unity, C#, Shaders.

Adventure MicroGame

Developer, Logic Programmer

Adventure inspired by Monkey Island, with insult duels and AI logic. Achievement: Functional and fun game. Technologies: Unity, C#.

2D PLATFORMER

Developer, Systems Programmer

2D platformer like Mario with health, enemies, and advanced camera systems. Achievement: Complete and functional prototype. Technologies: Unity, C#, Cinemachine.

Orbit showdown

Developer, Physics Programmer

2D space puzzle with orbits and vector physics mechanics. Achievement: Challenging and well-received game. Technologies: Unity, C#, Physics, Aseprite.

Rhizome Fighters

Developer, Multiplayer Programmer

Team-based multiplayer game developed at Global Game Jam. Achievement: Dynamic mechanics and functional networking. Technologies: Unity, C#, Netcode.

Jesters Jig | GGJ24

Developer, Hardware Integrator

Dance game with physical pad and comic narrative. Achievement: Arduino integration and original mechanic. Technologies: Unity, C#, Arduino.

Ship The Ship | LevelUp Jam 2024

Level Designer, AI Programmer

Herding puzzle with Boids system and team management. Achievement: Functional game and positive feedback at the jam. Technologies: Unity, C#, Trello.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

2024 - Present

Universitat Oberta De Catalunya (UOC), Remote

Pursuing a comprehensive Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, deepening theoretical and practical knowledge in software development, algorithms, and emerging technologies.

Postgraduate Diploma In Game Development

2024

Universitat Oberta De Catalunya, Remote

Attained specialized expertise in Game Development, honing skills in coding, design, and project management, paving the way for innovative and immersive gaming experiences.

Certificate of Higher Education in Video Game Design

2022

EMAiD, Vilanova i la Geltru

Gained fundamental knowledge in Video Game Design, exploring creative aspects of game development, from conceptualization to interactive storytelling, enhancing the player experience.

Vocation Education and Training in Fine Arts and Design

2020

EMAiD, Vilanova i la Geltru

Acquired a solid foundation in Fine Arts and Design, mastering techniques and principles essential for creating visually captivating and conceptually rich artistic works.

Professional Experience

Unity Developer / Programmer

jen. 2023 - Present

Barcelona, Spain

Designed immersive game mechanics and intricate puzzles for virtual reality (VR) games, enhancing user engagement and overall gameplay experience
Demonstrated proficiency as a Unity Developer and skilled C# programmer, contributing to successful development, optimization, and implementation of interactive gaming experiences, including innovative VR projects.
Implemented advanced rendering techniques to improve graphics performance.
Designed and implemented a VR player connectivity system with integrated voice/text chat.
Developed and deployed more than 10 Android and iOS apps.

Game Developer Internship in Produktia

nov. 2022 - jen. 2023

Barcelona, Spain

Assisted in the development and optimization of interactive features for Unity-based projects.
Collaborated with the team to implement and debug game mechanics, enhancing overall gameplay experience.
Participated in brainstorming sessions and contributed to the design of engaging VR/AR experiences.
Conducted research on emerging technologies and trends to support innovative game development strategies.
Demonstrated proficiency in coding, debugging, and troubleshooting within the Unity environment.

GTA ONLINE Modification Developer

2017 - 2021

Remote / Spain

Orchestrated the development and implementation of innovative game mechanics within a tailored framework for GTA Online modification, ensuring a seamless player experience.
Demonstrated proficiency in Lua programming to enhance and customize game elements for an enriched gameplay environment.
Applied advanced programming SQL skills for in-game system and feature optimization.
Spearheaded end-to-end 3D modeling processes, including creation and optimization, to elevate visual quality.
Directed a sizable team, fostering a collaborative environment for player management, and overseeing day-to-day operations with a focus on excellence.
Efficiently managed databases, demonstrating expertise in SQL database administration for optimal performance and data integrity.

Private HTML & JavaScript Tutor

2019 - 2021

Remote / Spain

Designed and implemented personalized learning plans in HTML and JavaScript for students of varying skill levels, enhancing their web development capabilities.
Utilized extensive knowledge in JavaScript to teach students how to create dynamic and interactive web pages effectively.
Explained complex concepts in HTML and CSS in an easy-to-understand manner, enabling students to build and style web pages from scratch.
Conducted regular assessments to monitor student progress and adjusted teaching methods to meet individual learning needs.
Maintained an open line of communication with students, providing ongoing support and guidance to foster a supportive learning environment.
Kept abreast of the latest web technologies and trends to provide students with up-to-date knowledge and skills.

ISE MIXED REALITY APP

Key Contributions:

Concept Design:
- Developed an engaging underwater cleanup game concept to promote environmental awareness.
- Integrated innovative hand gesture gameplay using OpenXR for an immersive experience.
Level Design:
- Designed immersive underwater environments to captivate players and enhance gameplay.
- Ensured progressive difficulty to keep players engaged and challenged.
Programming:
- Implemented hand tracking functionality using OpenXR for intuitive player interactions.
- Programmed multiplayer synchronization via Unity's Netcode for GameObjects to enable seamless player collaboration.
- Developed core game mechanics including player controls and environmental interactions.
Testing and Optimization:
- Conducted rigorous testing to ensure app stability and performance, crucial for the ISE presentation.
- Optimized the app for Pico glasses to deliver a seamless mixed reality experience.
- Ensured rapid response times to fix any issues and enhance user experience during the demo.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a functional and polished mixed reality app for Pico glasses.
Presented the app at the ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) exhibition, receiving positive feedback for innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive technology integration.

Skills Demonstrated:

Expertise in mixed reality (MR) development.
Advanced programming skills, particularly in networked player interactions and immersive technologies.
Effective project management using various software tools.
Strong problem-solving abilities and creative thinking in game development.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D
C#
OpenXR
Unity's Netcode for GameObjects
Various project management software

Orbit showdown

Source code
Try the game here

Key Contributions:

Game Concept and Design:
- Developed "Orbit Showdown," a 2D puzzle-style game set in space where players use planetary orbits to collect and destroy artifacts.
- Designed a dynamic and engaging game environment that challenges players' strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Programming and Game Mechanics:
- Implemented complete game programming, including complex physics-based mechanics utilizing vector mathematics for realistic orbital movements.
- Developed and optimized game systems to ensure a smooth and engaging player experience.
Technical Implementation:
- Utilized Unity 2D and C# for game development, ensuring robust and efficient coding practices.
- Applied advanced mathematical concepts and physics to simulate realistic planetary orbits and interactions.
Graphic Design and UI:
- Designed and created all game sprites, providing a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
- Developed an intuitive user interface to enhance the overall user experience.
Project Management:
- Managed the entire development process, from initial concept to final execution, ensuring timely completion and high-quality deliverables.
- Demonstrated effective problem-solving and creative thinking in overcoming development challenges.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a captivating and challenging 2D puzzle game that highlights technical and creative skills.
Received positive feedback for innovative game mechanics and engaging gameplay.

Skills Demonstrated:

Proficiency in 2D game development using Unity and C#.
Advanced skills in applying vector mathematics and physics for realistic game mechanics.
Strong abilities in graphic design and UI development.
Effective project management and problem-solving skills.

Technologies Used:

Unity 2D
C#
Vector Mathematics
Physics-Based Game Mechanics
Photoshop
Aseprite
Project Management Tools

Produktia Remote VR

App store

Key Contributions:

Concept Design:
- Developed a versatile app/player designed for both VR and mobile devices.
- Integrated features to facilitate video calls using WebRTC.
Network and Connectivity:
- Implemented Unity Netcode to enable the creation of networked rooms for real-time connectivity.
- Ensured reliable and efficient network communication for seamless user interactions.
Multimedia Integration:
- Developed a video player supporting 360/180 and 360 stereo videos for immersive viewing experiences.
- Integrated 3D camera technology to enhance interactive user experiences.
Remote Control Features:
- Enabled remote control capabilities from mobile phones, allowing users to control presentations and other functionalities seamlessly.
Device Compatibility and SDK Integration:
- Ensured compatibility with a wide range of devices including mobile phones, tablets, and VR glasses.
- Integrated necessary SDKs to support various functionalities and device compatibilities.
- Published the app on relevant stores, ensuring accessibility and ease of installation for users.
Testing and Optimization:
- Conducted extensive testing to ensure app stability and performance across different devices.
- Optimized the app for both VR and mobile platforms to deliver a smooth user experience.
- Ensured rapid response times for addressing issues and enhancing functionality.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a versatile and polished application compatible with VR and mobile devices.
Received positive feedback for the integration of video call capabilities and immersive video playback.

Skills Demonstrated:

Expertise in VR and mobile app development.
Advanced programming skills in networked communications and multimedia integration.
Effective project management using various software tools.
Strong problem-solving abilities and creative thinking in application development.

Technologies Used:

Unity
C#
WebRTC
Unity Netcode
Various project management software

Toon Zombie Third Person Shooter

Source Code

Key Contributions:

Game Concept and Design:
- Developed "Toon Zombie Apocalypse," a third-person shooter game with vibrant cartoon aesthetics inspired by Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
- Designed unique and engaging characters, ensuring each had a distinct personality and style fitting the game's theme.
Programming and Game Mechanics:
- Implemented complete game programming including AI, game mechanics, and custom shader programming to enhance visual fidelity and interactivity.
- Created and optimized various game systems for a smooth and engaging player experience.
Technical Implementation:
- Utilized Unity and C# to build the game, leveraging their capabilities for robust game development.
- Developed custom shaders to improve the visual quality and immersion of the game environment.
Creative Direction:
- Handled all aspects of creative direction, from conceptualization to execution, excluding 3D models and level design.
- Ensured a cohesive and visually appealing game aesthetic that aligned with the overall vision.
Project Management:
- Managed the entire project lifecycle, ensuring timely completion and high-quality deliverables.
- Demonstrated effective problem-solving and creative thinking in overcoming development challenges.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a visually striking and engaging game that showcases both technical and creative skills.
Received positive feedback for character design and innovative use of custom shaders.

Skills Demonstrated:

Proficiency in game development using Unity and C#.
Advanced skills in AI programming, game mechanics, and shader programming.
Strong abilities in character design and creative direction.
Effective project management and problem-solving skills.

Technologies Used:

Unity
C#
Custom Shader Programming
AI Development
Game Mechanics Implementation
Project Management Tools

Ship The Ship | LevelUp Jam 2024

Game Page

Key Contributions:

Concept Design:
- Developed the core gameplay concept centered around a sheepdog herding sheep.
- Designed the unique "madness meter" for sheep behavior, adding a layer of challenge and unpredictability.
Level Design:
- Created engaging and challenging levels to progressively test players' strategic skills.
- Ensured a smooth difficulty curve to keep players engaged.
Programming:
- Implemented a Boids system for realistic sheep flocking behavior, enhancing the game's immersion and complexity.
- Programmed game mechanics, including sheep movement, player controls, and interaction systems.
Team Collaboration:
- Organized and facilitated daily meetings to ensure smooth communication and progress tracking.
- Created and managed a Trello board to keep the team organized and tasks on track.
- Collaborated closely with artists and other programmers to integrate visual and functional elements seamlessly.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a functional and polished puzzle game within the Game Jam timeframe.
Received positive feedback for innovative gameplay mechanics and cohesive team collaboration.

Skills Demonstrated:

Game design and level design proficiency.
Advanced programming skills, particularly in AI and system design.
Effective team leadership and project management using tools like Trello.
Strong problem-solving abilities and creative thinking in game development.

Technologies Used:

Unity
C#
Trello for project management

FUNDACIÓN RAFAEL DEL PINO VR RESEARCH APP

Key Contributions:

Research Design:
- Developed a comprehensive VR experience to study human responses to different stimuli including words and colors.
- Created an innovative research methodology leveraging virtual reality technology.
Technical Development:
- Programmed the entire VR experience with a focus on intuitive hand tracking interactions.
- Implemented real-time data collection and visualization system.
- Designed immersive virtual environments to facilitate research objectives.
Data Management:
- Developed a robust database system for immediate data capture during the VR experience.
- Created real-time graphing capabilities to visualize research data instantly.

Project Highlights:

Successfully deployed at a major Fundación Rafael del Pino event.
Engaged over 500 educators from across Spain.
Collected comprehensive data on human behavioral responses in a controlled VR environment.

Skills Demonstrated:

Advanced virtual reality application development.
Complex data collection and real-time visualization.
Intuitive user interaction design using hand tracking.
Research methodology implementation through technology.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D
C#
OpenXR
Oculus 3 Hand Tracking
SQL
JSON
Data Visualization Tools

NANOSCOPE

Key Contributions:

Shader Creation and Integration:
- Developed custom shaders to seamlessly integrate AI-generated flat videos into particle systems, creating immersive underwater effects.
- Implemented specialized shaders for 3D models provided by the client to ensure consistent visual style.
Asset Import and Setup:
- Imported 3D models with animations, ensuring correct rigging and alignment within the Unity environment.
- Maintained efficient workflows to streamline the integration of assets into the linear VR experience.
Player Logic and Interaction:
- Developed the core player logic to deliver a first-person VR experience under the sea, enhancing story immersion.
- Ensured compatibility with Oculus Quest 2 and 3 headsets, optimizing performance for a smooth user experience.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a visually stunning and cohesive underwater narrative experience for Oculus Quest 2 and 3.
Integrated AI-generated animations and shaders in a way that elevated the overall production quality and story impact.

Skills Demonstrated:

Advanced shader programming and creative visual effects integration.
Proficient asset import and pipeline management for Unity.
Robust scripting and logic setup for VR player interaction and movement.
Collaborative problem-solving and iterative design within a multidisciplinary team.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D
C#
Oculus Integration for Quest 2 and 3
Shader Graph and HLSL

POMPEULAB VR EXPERIENCE

Key Contributions:

Concept & Puzzle Design:
- Devised and designed a linear VR puzzle experience commissioned by the Santa Coloma de Gramanet City Council.
- Created three distinct mini-games: a ring-toss puzzle releasing caged birds, a cubic image puzzle requiring precise rotation and placement, and a dart-throwing challenge targeting an iconic building's windows.
- Adapted photogrammetry-based city environments, distorted to evoke a post-apocalyptic ambience under a malevolent force.
Programming & Controls:
- Developed and integrated player controls using Pico 4 SDK to detect VR-specific inputs and ensure a seamless user experience.
- Implemented logic for each mini-game, from physics for ring toss to rotational alignment for the cube-based puzzle.
Environmental Design:
- Optimized photogrammetry models for VR performance while preserving visual fidelity.
- Applied Unity shaders and post-processing effects to amplify the unsettling atmosphere of the destroyed cityscape.
Team Leadership:
- Oversaw a team of three interns, guiding them through the optimization and integration of 3D assets.
- Managed tasks efficiently to meet client deadlines and maintain high-quality output.

Achievements:

Delivered a complete, immersive VR experience that satisfied the client's vision and project requirements.
Combined advanced puzzle mechanics with environmental storytelling to enhance player engagement.

Skills Demonstrated:

Proficiency in VR development using Pico 4 SDK.
Strong puzzle design and gameplay programming abilities.
Expertise in photogrammetry optimization and environmental art within Unity.
Effective leadership and mentorship of junior team members.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D
C#
Pico 4 SDK
Blender
Unity Shaders & Post-processing

LLUIS ACURA VR MINIGAME

Key Contributions:

Environment Optimization:
- Adapted and optimized the 3D hotel hall environment for seamless VR performance.
- Ensured that assets were optimized to maintain high frame rates on VR headsets.
Gameplay and Logic:
- Developed the core "examination" minigame mechanics where students sort various papers into the correct folders.
- Created an engaging and educational experience by gamifying the process of document sorting.
Player Controls:
- Programmed intuitive VR interactions, ensuring accurate motion tracking and smooth user input.
- Implemented user-friendly controls tailored for immersive gameplay and educational purposes.
Testing and Performance:
- Performed extensive testing to ensure a stable and bug-free experience for students.
- Optimized performance to deliver minimal latency, crucial for user comfort and engagement in VR.

Achievements:

Successfully delivered a functional and interactive VR minigame that meets educational objectives.
Enhanced student engagement by providing a realistic hotel environment for a unique learning experience.

Skills Demonstrated:

Advanced 3D optimization techniques for VR applications.
Proficient C# scripting and Unity-based VR development.
Effective problem-solving and debugging in a rapid iteration environment.
Strong collaboration skills to meet strict educational requirements.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D
C#
VR (OpenXR / SteamVR / Oculus integrations)
Project management software for task tracking and version control

GRAPAT DE BTC VR ESCAPE ROOM

Key Contributions:

Concept and Game Design:
- Collaborated with a three-member team to ideate and design an immersive VR escape room focused on raising awareness about the risks of trading biometric data for cryptocurrencies.
- Created the initial blueprint of the tutorial/intro scene to onboard new players and introduce core mechanics before transitioning to the main escape room scenario.
Environment and Asset Optimization:
- Optimized and placed all 3D assets in both main scenes, ensuring efficient rendering on Pico4 VR headsets.
- Developed materials and shaders for an immersive ambiance, maintaining high performance in virtual environments.
Programming and Networking:
- Led the development of five mini-games—ranging from puzzles to a social-decision scenario—managing two interns via Git-based parallel workflows.
- Utilized Unity's Netcode for GameObjects to implement local multiplayer, ensuring synchronized gameplay for all participants.
- Adapted and optimized mini-games to function seamlessly over a local network, enabling shared experiences in VR.
AI Integration:
- Designed a real-time AI "Game Master" to provide contextual hints, combining text-generation APIs, voice recognition, and text-to-speech integration.
- Ensured a fluid user experience by enabling dynamic dialogue between players and the AI during crucial puzzle moments.
Testing and Performance Tuning:
- Carried out thorough testing to guarantee smooth, high-performance gameplay on Pico4 headsets.
- Optimized code architecture and rendering performance to maintain stable frame rates, even in multiplayer sessions.

Achievements:

Delivered a polished, fully-networked VR escape room experience tackling real-world data privacy issues.
Enhanced VR immersion by blending engaging puzzles, social-decision elements, and AI-driven guidance.

Skills Demonstrated:

Advanced C# and Unity 3D development, particularly in multiplayer and network synchronization.
Proficiency in asset optimization, material/shader creation, and VR performance tuning.
Expertise in AI integration with voice recognition and text-to-speech systems.
Effective team leadership and project management, coordinating with interns and stakeholders using Git workflows.

Technologies Used:

Unity 3D (including Netcode for GameObjects)
C#
Pico4 VR Headsets
AI (Voice Recognition, Text Generation, Text-to-Speech)
Git Version Control