A Game Developer’s Musing : Personalized 3D Spaceships

5 min readAug 2, 2023

Hello there, I’m the producer of Galaxy Commanders. It’s been a whirlwind journey since we first embarked on the development of this game. While there’s still a ways to go, our vision for Galaxy Commanders is beginning to crystallize as we, along with our dedicated team, continue to assemble this complex puzzle. I’m buzzing with anticipation for the day you all can play Galaxy Commanders, and our team is working tirelessly to make it happen.

Amidst all this, I’ve been asked to share some insights on the development of Galaxy Commanders and our reasons for opting to use Web3 technology. This invitation has prompted a moment of reflection on our journey so far. So, let’s dive into the first chapter of this narrative — my vision for Customized 3D NFT Spaceships.

When the concept of Web3 and its underlying blockchain technology first emerged. The notion that users could not only read and write content but also directly own it was a game-changer. As a game designer, the prospect of integrating Web3 components into games thrilled me to no end. It unlocked possibilities that traditional web technologies simply couldn’t touch.

This shift in paradigm was transformative. As a content creator, it meant I could genuinely co-create a game with users, and they, in turn, could own a piece of Galaxy Commanders. Now, that’s what I call a new level of player engagement!

I had the opportunity to work on a hugely popular Social Networking Game (SNG) called “I Love Coffee”. This game allowed players to operate their very own coffee shops, each one decorated according to their individual taste. Players reveled in crafting unique and stylish cafes — a crucial part of the game’s appeal. To cater to this, we provided a multitude of interior items for players to use, enabling them to create cafes that truly reflected their personal style. Some opted for cozy, welcoming spaces while others leaned towards trendy rooftop cafes with an outdoor camping vibe. There were even players who designed their cafes around their favorite colors. As a developer, the sheer creativity of our players was both humbling and inspiring. To keep that passion alive, I took great joy in offering unique items.

< SNG Game “I Love Coffee”, Source: NEXTURE >

While many users thrived on the challenge of designing their cafes, the system had one significant drawback. While some users meticulously selected wallpapers, flooring, furniture, and accessories to create their dream cafe, others merely copied well-designed cafes they saw elsewhere. Of course, there’s nothing inherently wrong with borrowing inspiration from others — it’s all part of the creative process. As the saying goes, art begins with imitation. But that sentiment may not sit well with everyone.

I couldn’t help but think of those users who first pieced together innovative design ideas using various in-game items. It took significant effort to curate a unique atmosphere for their cafes, and it was a real challenge to reward this effort adequately. Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but it can feel a tad bittersweet to those original creators.

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This issue wasn’t confined to the realm of Social Networking Games. Players of many customizable games had to invest significant time and effort to truly appreciate the decorative elements. However, those users who dedicated themselves to creating unique content (User-Created Content, UCC) often weren’t granted the authority their creations deserved. That was, at least, the reality under Web2.

< The “MapleStory” Avatar Simulator where you can create countless characters. >

Think of a game like MapleStory, where users can decorate their avatars from top to bottom with a myriad of items. A natural offshoot of this was the creation of avatar coordination simulators. With the advent of Web3, programs that generated 2D images, as commonly used in avatar simulators, evolved. Savvy individuals turned these images into NFTs, sparking a trend of buying and selling randomly generated 2D images as profile pictures (PFPs) in the NFT market.

As an admirer of customization systems that champion diversity, I felt a pang of disappointment seeing others beat me to the punch. That’s why I decided to shift my focus, and boldly venture into the realm of 3D.

< Customization screen of “Armored Core V”, Source: PlayStation.Blog >

While I’m better known for crafting adorable and charming Social Networking Games, I’ve always harbored a deep-seated fascination with sci-fi mecha narratives. As a science-loving kid, I dreamt of unexplored galaxies and mighty robots. This interest grew into a full-blown love for the Armored Core series, mostly thanks to the customization system that allowed me to construct an Armored Core using countless components. With the parts I’d earned through successful missions, I was able to create not just visually stunning robots, but ones that could be strategically deployed in battles due to my unique assembly.

And so, I naturally found myself envisioning NFTs that facilitated this kind of mechanical customization, akin to Armored Core or Kerbal Space Program. Think about it: owning a robot that you’ve personally designed and assembled. Doesn’t that idea alone send a thrill of excitement down your spine? However, much to my disappointment, such a concept didn’t materialize as readily as I’d hoped. And that’s when it hit me: it was time for me to step up and make it happen.

This is the background of how the diverse range of battleships in Galaxy Commanders was born. My aim is to craft a universe where players can own a unique spaceship that is truly one-of-a-kind.