DisasterSim is a single-player 2D simulation designed to familiarize Soldiers with the challenges faced during real-world foreign disaster relief missions. The sponsor’s goal was to acclimate trainees to the discomfort of operating in uncertainty, while also ensuring they understood the hard rules of foreign policy. This project set a department record for quickest sponsor approval and highest end user rating.

To mimic the time pressure in real operations, I used a time-management style core mechanic. In the simulation, the player has command of a small number of resources and a constant stream of tasks to fulfill. Some assets are more specialized, such as engineers and medical units. All units can act as general manpower but have the advantage of completing tasks within their specialty at a faster pace. Successfully tasking these units to stabilize the immediate region is the main objective.

To encourage the use of both intuition and rules, I avoided designing an explicit “right” or “wrong” path through the scenario. Rather, I set up a system of metrics that needed constant attention and managing through player actions and included “red herring” options that accomplished tasks but violated doctrine. The sponsor requested that the player not actually be able to complete “red herring” tasks, so instead the player is warned that the action violates policy and is redirected to choose another action. The immediate feedback still drives home the strict doctrine-based learning points.

Official project page here.