Hard Knock Life



Study program: Creative Computing
Lecture: Digital Game Production
Lecturer(s): Peter Judmaier
Team leader: Ahmed Al-Durrah
Team members:
  • Angelika Franke (cc201001)
  • Ahmed Al-Durrah (cc201005)
  • Annika Limbach (cc201009)
  • Sophia Gruber (cc201014)
  • Alexander Azer (cc201017)
  • Barbara List (cc201021)
Short description: Hard Knock Life is a 2D crossover between a resource management game and a visual novel, all about how financial struggles impact mental and physical wellbeing, which addresses the balancing act many people have to deal with on a daily basis, especially in current times where the cost of living crisis impacts people in all aspects of life.

Project description:

Hard Knock Life is a 2D visual novel and resource management game about how financial struggles impact mental and physical wellbeing. It addresses the balancing act many people have to deal with on a daily basis, which is especially relevant in today’s cost-of-living crisis. The player follows the main character as they navigate everyday life, the social welfare system and a greedy landlord during an overwhelming cost-of-living crisis, all while trying to find a new job. Throughout the game, the player meets colorful characters and learns about their individual stories in dialogue sequences. Choose between various actions to increase your finances, maintain your wellbeing, and try to do it all before the day ends. All of the player’s stats are connected to each other--balance them out and stay afloat to win the game and get different endings (and don’t forget to feed the dog!)