Radar-Based Controls
Unique mouse-controlled radar system where you spin a 360-degree detection line to identify and interact with different types of entities. Hold left click for red enemies, right click for green allies, and release for ghosts.
Mini Jam 202
Chicken Matrix
You've been jacked into the chicken matrix. Protect the coop, collect eggs, and break out in this progressively difficult rhythm survival game sitting on the shoulders of an epic Synthwave soundtrack.
// system log
GAME_OVERVIEW.EXE
You've been jacked into the Chicken Matrix, a cyberpunk realm where chickens need protecting and reality bends to the rhythm of synthwave beats. In this fast-paced rhythm survival game, you control a radar detection system, spinning your cursor to identify friend from foe in an increasingly chaotic battlefield.
The core mechanic revolves around a unique mouse-based radar system. As entities appear on your screen, you must quickly determine their color-coded type and respond accordingly — hold left click for red enemies, right click for green allies, or release all buttons to let ghosts harmlessly pass through. Successful identification builds your charge meter for devastating 360-degree attacks.
Set against an epic original Synthwave soundtrack, the game progressively ramps up difficulty, throwing more enemies and complex patterns at you as you fight to protect the coop, collect eggs, and ultimately break free from the matrix.
// input bindings
CONTROL_SCHEME.EXE
LEFT MOUSE HOLD
Identify Red Enemies
RIGHT MOUSE HOLD
Identify Green Allies
NO MOUSE BUTTON
Let Ghosts Pass
360° MOUSE SPIN
Charged Attack (When Ready)
// core systems
GAME_FEATURES.EXE
Charged Attacks
Build up charge by successfully identifying entities, then unleash a powerful 360-degree spin attack by rotating your mouse completely around the radar. Strategic timing is crucial for survival.
Synthwave Soundtrack
Original epic Synthwave music composed specifically for the game creates an immersive retro-futuristic atmosphere. The soundtrack drives the rhythm and intensity of the gameplay experience.
Progressive Difficulty
Game difficulty escalates organically as you progress. More enemies spawn, patterns become complex, and the pace quickens, testing your reflexes and decision-making under pressure.
Egg Collection System
Protect the coop and collect eggs while defending against waves of enemies. Balance offensive and defensive play to maximize your score and survive longer.
Retro Aesthetic
Cyberpunk-inspired visual design with neon colors, grid patterns, and synthwave aesthetics creates a cohesive Matrix-meets-chickens universe that's both humorous and engaging.
// operators
TEAM_CREDITS.EXE
Connor Moran
Programmer (Team Lead)
@Some Code Guy
Logan Zimmermann
Music & Sound Design
@Loganzsound
Taher Samadi Shal
Programmer
@Tahersamadi
Devak Gounden
UI Designer & Programmer
@AstralCloud_SZA
// dev logs
DEVELOPMENT_STORY.EXE
01
The Challenge
Mini Jam 202 presented a unique opportunity to create something innovative within a 48-hour timeframe. Our team came together with diverse skills — programming, sound design, and UI/UX — to tackle the challenge head-on.
02
The Concept
The idea emerged from combining rhythm game mechanics with survival elements and a humorous twist. "What if The Matrix, but with chickens?" became our guiding principle. We wanted to create a game that was easy to learn but difficult to master, with a unique control scheme that felt fresh.
03
Technical Implementation
Built in Unity, the game features a custom radar detection system with mouse-based controls. The programming team developed the core mechanics, entity spawning system, and difficulty scaling algorithms. Challenges included perfecting the mouse input responsiveness and balancing the charged attack timing.
04
Audio Design
Logan Zimmermann composed an original Synthwave soundtrack that became the heart of the game. The music doesn't just provide atmosphere — it drives the gameplay rhythm and creates an immersive experience that ties the cyberpunk aesthetic together.
05
The Result
Within 72 hours, we shipped a complete, polished game with HTML5 and Windows builds. The positive reception and smooth gameplay validated our design choices. This jam reinforced the importance of clear communication, scoped features, and trusting your team's expertise.
Ready to Jack In?
Experience the Chicken Matrix yourself. Play now in your browser or download for Windows.
Play Chicken Matrix