Kennesaw State University's Game Studio Launches Chiba, a Culinary-Themed Puzzle Adventure

In the heart of Kennesaw, Georgia, an innovative 2D puzzle game has emerged from the classrooms of Kennesaw State University. Entitled Chiba, this digital creation represents the second major release by KSU Game Studio and showcases the talents of its student developers. Launched on May 30, 2025, through the Steam platform, the game invites players to solve culinary-themed puzzles as a "chef dog." Building on the success of their first game, Corporation Inc., released in August 2024, KSU Game Studio continues to push the boundaries of educational gaming.

A Student-Created Game Evolves into a Digital Success Story

On a crisp spring day in late May, Chiba officially debuted on the global gaming stage. Developed by five KSU students—Aidan Fushimi, Mikail Miller, Reid Autry, Katelyn Buell, and Austin Lothman—the game originated as a class project under the guidance of Dr. Henrik Warpefelt. The team initially crafted the basic framework for the game but quickly refined it with encouragement from Warpefelt and Victoria Lagrange, an assistant professor of English and director of the KSU Game Studio.

Set against the backdrop of Kennesaw State University’s vibrant academic environment, Chiba draws inspiration from classic box-pushing games like Sokoban. However, it introduces a unique twist: cuisine-themed blocks that simulate food preparation. Players must strategically cut and arrange various food items onto plates while navigating through increasingly challenging levels.

The development process was marked by iterative feedback sessions and creative collaboration. Each team member contributed distinct skills, blending programming expertise with artistic flair. Katelyn Buell deserves special recognition for envisioning the game's retro-inspired aesthetic, drawing influences from titles such as Stardew Valley and Cooking Mama.

Reflections on Innovation and Community Engagement

As a journalist observing this milestone achievement, I am struck by the potential of video games to unite diverse communities. The story of Chiba exemplifies how education can seamlessly blend with entertainment, empowering students to channel their passions into impactful projects. By fostering environments where creativity thrives, institutions like KSU pave the way for future innovators. This journey underscores the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and perseverance in transforming ideas into reality.