Learning to code through a Splatoon 2 bot
2017 · Side project
Background
As a big fan of video games, I was excited when Nintendo released Splatoon 2, a third-person shooter for the Nintendo Switch. The game features a unique mechanic: maps rotate every two hours, but there was no easy way for players to check which maps were playable.
Solution
As a player, I often found myself launching the game just to check the current map rotation. That’s why I decided to create a Twitter bot that automatically posted updates on the upcoming maps for each game mode, helping players stay informed. The bot quickly gained traction, becoming a valuable resource for the community and reaching over 2,600 followers at its peak.
Outcome
What started as a small side project evolved into a valuable learning experience. I built a strong foundation in programming with JavaScript, working with APIs, and using version control with Git – skills I later applied to design system and prototyping projects in my professional work.
This project also taught me the importance of iterative problem-solving: focusing on launching a functional solution first and refining it over time. It was incredibly rewarding to see how something I created could make a meaningful impact for other players in the community.