Description
StarLords is an original, large-scale video game designed for social gatherings, drawing inspiration from classic Atari 2600 titles like Pong, Breakout, and Warlords. This retro-style game utilizes the BigPixel modular display arranged into a square 10x10 foot configuration on the floor, with paddle control towers on each corner.
In StarLords, each player defends their space fortress's white energy supply from a careening and destructive red plasma ball. While blue walls offer passive defense, players can actively protect their fortress by moving a green shield along their fortress walls. Deflecting the plasma ball with the shield increases its speed, potentially sending it towards an opponent's fortress. Subsequent deflections further accelerate the ball.
When the plasma ball strikes a blue wall, it destroys a brick, making the energy source more vulnerable and reducing the ball's speed back to its original momentum. The game continues until only one fortress remains intact. The winning control tower then declares, "You. Are. StarLord." The game is enhanced by retro gaming sounds, creating a fully nostalgic experience.
Gallery
Videos
Technical Details
- Dimensions: Uses BigPixel Display (modular LED installation)
- Materials: Custom controllers, BigPixel display system
- Interactivity: Four-player cooperative arcade-style gameplay
- Technology: Custom game programming, LED matrix control, real-time multiplayer
- Fabrication Time: 9 months
- Budget: $5,000
Placements
- Ingenuity Fest 2024, Cleveland, OH - September 2024
- Cavaliers STEM Day, Tower City, Cleveland, OH - March 16, 2025
- Guardians STEM Day, Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH - May 14, 2025
- Ingenuity Bal, Cleveland, OH - 2025
- Content Creator Camp, Cleveland Public Library, Martin Luther King Branch - May 24, 2025
- Ingenuity Fest 2025, Cleveland, OH - September 2025
Status
Available for InstallationStarLords is currently available for bookings at events and venues. The game runs on the BigPixel display system and provides engaging multiplayer entertainment for audiences of all ages.
Team
Designer & Lead: Ed Morra
Team: Saaman Khalilollahi, Sam Harmon, Brian Gesler, James Cupp, Bob Maher, Andrew Horvat, Katherine Stafford
Technical Support: Ingenuity Labs, Makers Alliance
Impact & Engagement
StarLords has been featured at multiple high-profile Cleveland events, engaging thousands of visitors in collaborative play. The game's retro aesthetic and social gameplay mechanics create memorable experiences that bridge generations and encourage a brief community among strangers.