Captivating the Parisian landmarks through the electronic board game

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on a journey of innovation and exploration through a captivating electronic board game project during my trip to Paris. The project, which combined intricate technology with the allure of Parisian landmarks, allowed us to create an interactive experience that seamlessly integrated a joystick, pressure sensors, magnetic modules, RFID cards, and an online quiz. In this blog post, I’m excited to share the thrilling process of developing this immersive game and how it brought the magic of Paris to life in an entirely new way.

Crafting the Game Mechanics: The Joystick and Iron Ball:

At the heart of our project was a cleverly designed joystick that controlled the movement of an iron ball on the game board. Players could navigate the virtual streets of Paris, guiding the ball toward the various landmarks we had strategically placed. This tactile interface added a physical dimension to the experience, allowing players to immerse themselves in the enchanting streets of the city.

Pressure Sensors and Magnetic Modules: An Intricate Dance:

As the iron ball skillfully found its way into designated holes aligned with different landmarks, a pressure sensor ingeniously detected the drop. The sensor’s data triggered the magnetic module corresponding to the specific landmark, allowing it to release an RFID card associated with that location. This process unfolded as an intricate dance of technology and mechanics, bringing each landmark to life in the palm of players’ hands.

RFID Cards and Sequential Exploration:

The RFID cards were the keys that unlocked the treasures of Paris. Each card was meticulously programmed to contain information about a specific landmark. These cards were read in a carefully selected sequence, representing the chronological order of when the landmarks were introduced. This sequential exploration ensured that players traversed the historical journey of Paris, step by step, as they engaged with the game.

The Unveiling: A Digital Quest Through the City of Lights:

Once all RFID cards had been read in their designated order, the game transitioned to an online quiz. This phase was the culmination of our project’s ingenious blend of entertainment and education. The questions in the quiz related to the landmarks players had encountered, inviting them to reflect on their journey while testing their knowledge of Paris’s cultural treasures.

Enriching Knowledge and Creating Memories:

Our journey through this electronic board game wasn’t just about technology; it was a multidimensional experience that intertwined the beauty of Paris with the world of electronics. The tactile feel of the joystick, the precision of the pressure sensors, and the magic of the RFID cards all came together to create a memorable adventure. As we answered quiz questions online, we not only tested our knowledge but also deepened our appreciation for the city’s rich history and culture.

Conclusion: Where Innovation Meets Exploration:

Creating this electronic board game project in the heart of Paris was an unforgettable experience that highlighted the incredible potential of merging technology and cultural exploration. Through the marriage of a joystick, pressure sensors, magnetic modules, RFID cards, and an online quiz, we crafted a journey that transcended the boundaries of traditional gaming. It allowed us to delve into the realms of both electronics and history, reinforcing the idea that innovation thrives when it’s paired with curiosity and creativity. Our journey was a testament to the magic of Paris and the boundless possibilities that emerge when we infuse technology with the essence of exploration.

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to both our dedicated professors and my incredible classmates for their unwavering support and collaboration throughout our Parisian electronic board game project. This journey of innovation and exploration wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance and expertise of our professors, whose wisdom illuminated our path and fueled our enthusiasm for electronics and technology. To my classmates, you are the true stars of this endeavor – your creativity, dedication, and teamwork brought life to our project, turning it into an unforgettable experience. Together, we’ve proven that collaboration and shared passion can lead to remarkable achievements. Thank you for making this journey in Paris an extraordinary and enriching chapter of our academic and personal growth.

Zhengxin Ma
Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
Summer School at Ecole Supérieure d’Ingénieurs Léonard de Vinci (ESILV) in Paris, France
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient