Build a Standout Developer Portfolio with Kaboom.js

Here's a guide to get you started:

Kaboom.js: Why it's a Great Choice

• Beginner-friendly: Kaboom.js offers a straightforward and intuitive way to build games, even if you're new to game development.
• JavaScript Focus: Showcase your JavaScript mastery, a highly sought-after skill.
• Fun Factor: Game development is inherently engaging, making your portfolio more memorable for potential employers.

Project Setup

1. Choose a Development Environment: You can use a simple text editor or a full-featured IDE (like VS Code). For quickstarts, online environments like Replit (https://replit.com/) are fantastic.

   Share on Fuel My Dreams
   
   
   Share on Fuel My Dreams
   
   

2. Install Kaboom.js: If you're not using an online platform, include the Kaboom.js library in your project. You can find it on the official website (https://kaboomjs.com/) or use a CDN link.

The Blueprint: Your Portfolio as a Game

Think of your portfolio as a mini-adventure game. Here's a possible structure:

• House or Map: Each "room" or area represents a section of your portfolio (skills, projects, contact info).
• Player Character: A simple avatar representing you.
• Interactive Objects: Clickable objects reveal text boxes with details. Think degrees hanging on a wall, computers showing projects, etc.
• Resume Link: A prominent object (e.g., a briefcase) that opens your full resume in a new tab.

Building the Basics (Kaboom.js Style)

1. Initialize: Start a Kaboom.js project using the kaboom() function.
2. Load Assets: Use loadSprite(), loadSound(), etc., to load your images, sound effects, and any other resources.
3. Game Scenes: Kaboom.js uses the concept of "scenes" to organize different game levels or sections. Create a scene for your main portfolio map.
4. Game Objects: Use Kaboom.js components to create your assets:
   • add() to create objects
   • sprite() for images
   • pos() for positioning
   • area() to define collision areas
   • text() for displaying text boxes

Skills Showcase: Getting Interactive

1. Interaction: Use the onClick() function to detect when objects are clicked.
2. Text and Pop-ups: Display relevant information about your skills or projects in text boxes or pop-up windows.
3. Linking Your Resume: Use onClick() to trigger a function to open your resume in a new tab.

Adding Polish

• Movement: Use keyDown() to control your player character's movement.
• Sounds: Play sound effects on interactions to make it more engaging.
• Background Music: Subtle background music enhances the experience.

Example Code Snippet:

kaboom();

loadSprite("wall", "/assets/wall.png");
loadSprite("diploma", "/assets/diploma.png");

scene("portfolio", () => {
    add([
        sprite("wall"),
        pos(50, 50),
        area(), 
        solid() 
    ]);

    add([
        sprite("diploma"),
        pos(100, 120),
        area(),
        "skillDisplay" // Tag for interaction
    ]);

    onClick("skillDisplay", () => {
        add([
            text("Completed a Bachelor's in Computer Science"),
            pos(100, 170)
        ]);
    });  
 });

Go Forth and Build!

This is just a starting point. Customize, add unique mechanics, and showcase your personality. Building your portfolio with Kaboom.js is a fun project in itself and a powerful demonstration of your coding abilities.