Overview
KillCode: 404 is a fast-paced FPS roguelike set inside a fractured virtual world known as the Pantheon. Players step into the role of Kasey, a rogue netrunner hacking her way through hostile cyberspace to uncover the hidden systems and secrets buried beneath its corporate architecture. The project draws inspiration from the movement of Titanfall, the roguelike structure of RoboQuest, and the digital meta-absurdism of Ready Player One.
As Lead Designer, I shaped the game's core identity from the ground up — defining key mechanics, weapons, and systemic frameworks. I designed levels from early concept and blockout to fully realized playable spaces, and developed the worldbuilding, story structure, and cinematic direction that contextualize Kasey's journey through Pantheon.
My Design Role
Beyond core design and narrative, I created and implemented the game's UI — logos, weapon iconography, HUD elements, and menu systems. I also integrated sound effects and contributed to polishing multiple levels, ensuring cohesion between gameplay systems, visual language, and player experience.
I had a level designer working under me, collaborating on spatial design and flow while I directed the overall vision for each environment and encounter space.
Gameplay Showcase
The combat revolves around a diverse arsenal of weapons inspired by Greek mythology — the Zeus atomic cannon, the Artemis lever-action shotgun, the Poseidon sniper rifle, and the Decompiler auto-shotgun — each offering distinct playstyles that interact with the game's movement systems.
Development
KillCode: 404 was developed by Studio 300 over the course of 2025 as our flagship title. The team of 11 included artists, programmers, a combat designer, concept artists, a sound designer, and a music composer. I led design across all disciplines and was responsible for maintaining the creative vision throughout production.
Results & Takeaways
KillCode: 404 won Best in Show for Overall Design at the Academy of Art University 2025 Spring Show, validating the team's creative direction and execution. The demo is available for download on itch.io.
Team
- Dominik Rangel — Art Director, Founder
- Dominic Sanchez — Programmer, Tech Artist, Founder
- Justin Bushey — Combat Designer
- Savannah Oellrich — 3D Artist
- Augustus Laughlin — 3D Artist
- Jason Li — Character Artist
- Colton Muheim — Concept Artist
- Kashia Cheng — Concept Artist
- Chris Lee — Sound Designer
- Michael Antonio — Music Composer