Danny Tran

Game Developer | Technical Animator

  • Rink Racer - Arena/Tailgate

    Engine: Unity (C#)

    Web Controller: Typscript React

    Frameworks & Tools: Multi-display synchronization, projection-optimized rendering, REST API integration

    Core Features Built:

    • Multi-layer visual system for rink projection, jumbotron, and mobile controllers
    • Racer movement, physics, and animation system
    • UI/UX implementation optimized for large-scale visibility
    • Real-time synchronization between Unity visuals and backend gameplay data
    • Rendering optimization for high-lumen projection hardware

  • Overview

    Rink Racer is a large-scale, projection-based racing game played live during Toronto Maple Leafs intermissions. Presented by partners including Scotiabank, Scene+, and Jackpot City, the game transforms the rink into a massive interactive racetrack using advanced projection systems, letting fans compete in real time from across the arena.

    Designed as a fast-paced 2–3 minute multiplayer activation, Rink Racer boosts in-arena energy, encourages fan participation, and elevates sponsor visibility through an engaging, high-impact digital experience.

    Section image

    My Role

    As a Unity Developer and UI Technical Artist, I played a key role in bringing Rink Racer’s visuals, gameplay logic, and multi-display experience to life.

    Key Contributions:

    • Implemented Unity-based visuals for rink projection, jumbotron displays, and web controller interfaces.
    • Collaborated with designers to translate gameplay concepts into high-energy UI/UX flows suitable for both large-scale displays and mobile controllers.
    • Developed the synchronized visual system to ensure alignment between projection, jumbotron, and player inputs.
    • Built and integrated gameplay logic, including racer movement, pacing, and sponsor-driven visual elements.
    • Optimized animations, shaders, and rendering pipelines for stadium-scale projection hardware.
    • Worked closely with backend engineers to synchronize player inputs and real-time game state updates.

  • Design & User Experience

    Rink Racer was crafted to maximize excitement and clarity for tens of thousands of fans in Arena and outside at tailgate:

    • Designed large-format UI and clear visual indicators optimized for rink-sized projections and high seating distances.
    • Built dynamic camera movements, and racer animations to amplify the sense of speed and momentum.
    • Ensured sponsor assets were integrated tastefully into the experience without interrupting gameplay flow.
    • Created web controller UI that allowed fans to join the race instantly with simple, intuitive interactions.
    • Synchronized projection and jumbotron to provide a unified, energetic visual narrative throughout the arena.

  • Challenges & Solutions

    Challenges:

    • Delivering smooth and readable visuals on a massive projection surface with unique lighting and color constraints.
    • Ensuring all display systems (projection, jumbotron, controllers) remained synchronized during fast-paced gameplay.
    • Balancing performance and visual fidelity to run on stadium-grade hardware with tight timing constraints.

    Solutions:

    • Implemented optimized shaders, texture atlasing, and render batching to support stable framerates on projection hardware.
    • Built a centralized event-driven sync system to keep gameplay states consistent across all displays.
    • Prototyped and iterated with live arena tests to fine-tune color vibrancy, brightness, and motion readability.
    • Worked closely with designers to ensure UI hierarchy, scale, and spacing maintained clarity even from the upper bowl.

    Outcome

    Rink Racer became a standout in-arena experience during Maple Leafs games, delivering a high-energy, visually engaging activation that fans look forward to each intermission.

    • Successfully synchronized jumbotron, projection, and web controller experiences.
    • Drove strong fan engagement, with thousands of players participating per game night.
    • Elevated partner branding through animated sponsor integrations and custom race elements.
    • Strengthened MLSE’s portfolio of innovative digital activations, proving the value of large-scale, interactive fan experiences.
    Cookie Use
    We use cookies to ensure a smooth browsing experience. By continuing we assume you accept the use of cookies.
    Learn More