A team of young developers from the University of the Philippines Mindanao has clinched the grand prize in the Department of Trade and Industry’s Young Creatives Challenge Season 2, securing ₱1 million for their rhythm-puzzle game, RiBeat!
Developed by Sweet Banana Studios, RiBeat! is a vibrant rhythm-puzzle game where players guide Muira, a musical frog, through beat-synced obstacles and puzzles. The game features dynamic boss battles against animal musicians, each with unique instruments and rhythms.
The core team comprises UP Mindanao BS Computer Science alumni: project lead and lead programmer Franz Kenji Vilela, QA and business lead Kaye Janua Maceda, programmer and sound designer Francis Gabriel Jacinto, and programmer and 3D artist Rhymno Orioque. Additional members include 3D artist and UI designer Mark Bolilan and sound designer Zian Callao.
Initially developed for the 2022 Game Jam Plus competition, where it became a finalist, RiBeat! has since evolved into a full-fledged project. The game draws inspiration from the Legend of Muiraquitã, following Muira’s quest through the Amazon River to solve the mystery of lost fireflies and reach the Mirror of the Moon Lake.
RiBeat! is currently available for wishlisting on Steam, with a release date to be announced.
