CURRICULUM VITAE

MAZEN EL SHAAR

Dubai, United Arab Emirates mazenshaar@hotmail.com in/mazenshaar github.com/mazen320

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Innovative Game Developer with extensive experience in scripting, mechanics optimization, and development using Unity and C#. Skilled in transforming conceptual visions into compelling gaming experiences with a focus on AI integration and interactive media. Strong foundation in both 3D and 2D development environments. Demonstrated expertise in developing complex Unity-based applications with a focus on performance optimization, user experience, and innovative features. Known for driving team collaboration and delivering innovative solutions within the interactive media landscape.

EDUCATION

SAE Institute

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Game Development/Programming

February 2019 - August 2023

Dubai, UAE

https://dubai.sae.edu/

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

Programming Languages

  • C#: Primary language for Unity development, extensive experience across multiple projects
  • C++: Used for performance-critical components and system-level programming
  • Python: Utilized for AI integration, automation, and tooling
  • CSS: Applied for UI styling and web integration

Game Development

  • Unity: Expert-level proficiency, extensive project portfolio
  • 3D & 2D Environments: Creation and optimization of detailed game environments
  • Physics Programming: Implementation of advanced physics systems, including grappling mechanics
  • Game Mechanics: Implementation of A* pathfinding, physics-based interactions, and gameplay systems

AI & Machine Learning

  • Stable Diffusion Integration: Front-end development for AI image generation
  • AI Character Behaviors: Implementation of complex steering behaviors and pathfinding
  • GPT-4 & LLM Integration: Implementation of AI-powered features and content generation
  • Computer Vision: Image processing, face detection, and manipulation

Advanced Technologies

  • TouchDesigner: Development of real-time visual programming for interactive media and installations
  • VR/AR Development: Creation of immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences
  • Kinect Integration: Implementation of motion-sensing input devices for interactive experiences
  • Robotics: Programming of robotic systems, including XArm robot arm integration with Unity

Tools & Technologies

  • Version Control: Git, GitHub
  • 3D Modeling: Blender
  • Image Editing: Photoshop
  • Networking: API integration, multiplayer functionality
  • Cloud Integration: Google Drive API implementation

Methodologies

  • Agile Development: Sprint planning, iterative development
  • Team Leadership: Cross-functional team coordination and mentoring
  • Problem Solving: Creative solutions to technical challenges

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Junior Unity Developer

PurpleGlo, Dubai, UAE

February 2024 - Present

Responsibilities and Achievements:

  • Innovated in the interactive media space by developing an AI Photobooth using stable diffusion software, a first-of-its-kind project in the UAE
  • Led the integration of Unity with robotics, including programming an XArm robot arm
  • Contributed to pioneering projects that positioned PurpleGlo as a leader in cutting-edge technologies in the UAE
  • Collaborated with high-profile clients to deliver custom interactive experiences

Unity Developer Intern

PurpleGlo, Dubai, UAE

August 2023 - February 2024

Responsibilities and Achievements:

  • Led development and optimization of interactive gaming solutions in Unity, collaborating with clients like F1, Forbes Middle East, and Mercedes
  • Managed end-to-end game development lifecycle, with a focus on crafting detailed 3D and 2D environments in Unity
  • Pioneered use of advanced technologies like Kinect, AI, VR, and AR in Unity projects
  • Integrated APIs to enhance game functionality, improve user engagement, and enable compatibility with various hardware
  • Led and mentored teams in Unity development and problem-solving
  • Contributed to a culture of agility and innovation within the development team

KEY PROJECTS

Professional Projects at PurpleGlo

AI Photobooth

Description: A comprehensive Unity-based front-end for Stable Diffusion WebUI and other AI tools

Responsibilities:

  • Architected and developed the core application framework
  • Implemented text-to-image, img2img, image interrogation, face fixing, and upscaling features
  • Created integration with Photoshop and other image editors for seamless workflow
  • Built support for multiple servers and GPUs to enhance performance
  • Integrated AI Guide feature using GPT-4 and open source LLMs
  • Led development team and coordinated contributions

Technologies: Unity, C#, Stable Diffusion, GPT-4, ShaderLab, HLSL

Achievements: Successfully delivered a feature-rich application with 153+ commits, supporting multiple AI models and tools

Realtime Diffusion

Description: A realtime diffusion application that generates AI imagery on-the-fly

Responsibilities:

  • Developed real-time processing pipeline for generative AI
  • Optimized performance for interactive speeds
  • Created intuitive user interface for controlling generation parameters
  • Implemented various optimization techniques to reduce latency

Technologies: TouchDesigner, Stable Diffusion, Python, CUDA

Achievements: Pushed boundaries of generative AI performance and interactivity

AI Painting App

Description: An innovative application combining traditional digital painting with AI-assisted generation

Responsibilities:

  • Developed tablet integration for natural drawing input
  • Created hybrid workflow combining manual painting with AI generation
  • Implemented pressure sensitivity and advanced brush dynamics
  • Designed intuitive UI/UX for seamless creative experience

Technologies: Unity/C#, Tablet Integration, Stable Diffusion, UI/UX Design

Achievements: Created innovative tool bridging traditional digital art with AI capabilities

Deepfake Booth

Description: A Unity application for deepfake video and photo manipulation

Responsibilities:

  • Designed and developed the core application architecture
  • Implemented QR code functionality and Google Drive integration
  • Created retry mechanisms for failed operations
  • Developed screenshot functionality for capturing manipulated images
  • Led development process from concept to completion

Technologies: Unity, C#, Deepfake AI, Google Drive API, QR Code generation

Achievements: Completed project with 96+ commits, delivering a stable and user-friendly application

PipesGame

Description: A Unity-based game project with A* pathfinding logic

Responsibilities:

  • Collaborated on core gameplay mechanics
  • Implemented A* pathfinding algorithm
  • Developed pipe rotation mechanics
  • Optimized performance for smooth gameplay

Technologies: Unity, C#, A* Pathfinding, Game mechanics

Achievements: Contributed to a successful game project with 208+ commits

Educational Projects at SAE Institute

Advanced Grappling Physics Project

Description: A game featuring a grappling hook mechanism using Unity and C#

Responsibilities:

  • Developed core grappling hook physics system
  • Implemented companion AI character with custom steering behaviors
  • Optimized performance for smooth gameplay

Technologies: Unity, C#, Physics programming, AI behaviors

Achievements: Received a nomination for best game project of the year at SAE Institute

Complex Steering Behaviors Project

Description: A game utilizing multiple advanced steering behaviors for dynamic AI interactions

Responsibilities:

  • Implemented various steering behaviors (seek, flee, pursue, evade, etc.)
  • Created a framework for combining multiple behaviors
  • Optimized AI performance for realistic movement

Technologies: Unity, C#, AI programming

Achievements: Successfully demonstrated advanced AI concepts in a practical application

Custom Pathfinding Project

Description: A game centered around A* pathfinding algorithms

Responsibilities:

  • Implemented custom A* pathfinding system
  • Created grid-based navigation system
  • Developed path visualization tools

Technologies: Unity, C#, Pathfinding algorithms

Achievements: Created an engaging and strategically challenging game environment

Shape Shifting Mechanics Project

Description: A game with innovative shape-shifting mechanics

Responsibilities:

  • Led code development and team coordination
  • Implemented shape-shifting system affecting gameplay mechanics
  • Utilized profiling methods for optimization

Technologies: Unity, C#, Game mechanics

Achievements: Successfully delivered a unique gameplay experience with efficient performance

LANGUAGES

English (Fluent)

Arabic (Native)

REFERENCES

Available upon request