LAUREN SCHROEDER

Inspiration

I’ve always loved rhythm games like DDR and Beat Saber, and I recently started taking a dance class that reminded me how joyful it is to learn to dance with others, inspiring me to create a world about becoming a bigtime dancer that feature a fun rhythm game.

What it does

Dancestar Dream is a multiplayer rhythm-dance experience. When players enter, they receive a personal studio to learn swiping and tapping gestures to the beat. As they perform choreography, they earn stars, level up, and unlock outfits and studio decor. Players can also cheer on others with fireworks, interacting from afar.

How we built it

I built a custom rhythm system in TypeScript, combining gesture tracking, timing logic, and avatar animation syncing to original music. I use asset spawning to serve a broad wardrobe and studio signage library, giving each player a unique visual identity and space. Choreography runs on a data-driven timeline for precise beat mapping.

Some challenges were designing a multi-stage layout so visitors could listen, but music wouldn’t disrupt other active dancers. Similarly, designing mainstage element visibility to avoid overcrowding for a group.

Learning and accomplishments

I’m proud of how well several routines match the music emotionally and rhythmically. It’s been great seeing players naturally hype each other up and step into their “dancestar” persona.

I deepened my understanding of timing systems, judgment feedback, and world variable-driven asset spawning, including daily rotating content pools. I also created a custom Blender skybox and refined my workflow to use AI for iteration (especially props, structural elements, and SFX) while maintaining a strong personal creative vision.

What's next

I'd love to bring full-body VR support, add NPC quests and special events, and continue expanding moves, costumes, and studio customization.