Klems: The beginning

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Wonderjam winter 2024 game page

The Challenge

       Klems: the Beginning (KTB) is a game where you must contain a zombie outbreak in your laboratory! Presented as part of the Winter 2023 WonderJam with the theme “Genetics,” our team decided to create a game with a realistic style to step out of our comfort zone (low-poly). KTB is the prequel to Klems and reveals why players turn into zombies!

Our Approach

       Before the competition started, we discussed our preferences in terms of game style and decided to aim for a realistic game as a challenge. Our team themes were “Guns,” “Chemistry,” and “Objective System”. We decided to combine chemistry and weapons with an organic weapon that the player can upgrade using genes found on the corpses of zombies they kill. The objective system is represented in two ways: first, by the need to progress through the four rooms of the laboratory, and second, by the method of opening doors. Players must secure six randomly placed zones on the floor to unlock a door. These zones are spread across the entire unlocked laboratory, making it increasingly difficult to open doors.

       We used Unreal Engine 5.3 and JetBrains Rider for game development. For graphics, we utilized the Quixel library and an organic weapons pack purchased from the marketplace. For sound design, we relied on metal sound packs from Ovani Sounds, which we particularly enjoy.

       For this project, my tasks were as follows:

This project was a real challenge for us given the scale of the game we wanted to create in just 48 hours. Additionally, the realistic art direction brought its own set of challenges regarding performance and the final game size. I’m thrilled that we managed to meet all our objectives (60 fps, a maximum size of 2 GB, and playability with latency), even though our project didn’t win over the competition jury.
C'est ma petite tête sur cette photo
- Lucas
How to Play?

       KTB is a multiplayer game for two players. Start by creating or joining a session, then click the “Ready” button at the bottom of the screen. The game starts automatically when both players are ready.
Once in the game, you must open the laboratory doors by pressing the red buttons simultaneously, which will trigger zombie waves and unlock the zones to secure. Warning: the buttons must be pressed at the same time, so make sure to keep your friend alive throughout the game.

       Upgrade your weapon by collecting genes from the corpses of zombies you kill. Once you have genes, approach the workbenches in rooms 2, 3, and 4 to spend them and purchase upgrades.

Keyboard Controls:
  • Move: WASD
  • Look around: Mouse
  • Jump: Space
  • Primary fire: Left Click
  • Secondary fire: Right Click
  • Reload: R
  • Interact/Revive: F
  • In-game menu: Escape
Play Video
Game Presentation Video

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