Apocalypse Design PBL
Apocalypse Design PBL 2026
Apocalypse 2024
The Challenge
The year is 2035, and the world has been changed and humanity is on the brink! You’ve been hired by a brave client to design a perfect apocalypse-proof home.
Your mission: Keep them safe, comfortable, and happy in a world full of danger. You’ll use your imagination and Minecraft skills to build a secure home while solving unique challenges for your survivor!
Think you have what it takes? Let’s find out!
You will use Stanford’s Design Thinking process to develop a creative, client-centered solution. Additionally, you will prototype your design in Minecraft, using the platform's tools to bring your ideas to life in a virtual, interactive environment.
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I met with my client, Chris, and started by asking what biome would best suit his chances for survival during the Apocalypse. His choice was a deciduous forest. We then focused on what he not only needed to survive but to thrive in these difficult conditions. Here is his list of needs:
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at least 5 stories
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Multiple flare outs to prevent climbing creatures
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In-Earth bunker/ root cellar
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Greenhouse
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water filtration
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generator
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Open Air Top Floor
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hot tub​
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woodstove to heat tub
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pizza oven
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Slide from top to bottom​
Defining the problem was identified in the project narrative when we were asked to design a structure that was apocalypse proof.
The next step in the design process was to generate ideas for my client. This could be brainstorming as many options as possible or as I did sketch a vision based on the interview I did and go back to Chris and get his feedback. He did not have a lot of specific needs so the image below represents what he agreed would meet his needs if an apocalypse occurs. ​​
Prototyping occurred in Minecraft after I had done multiple iterations based on my clients feedback. The feedback process was very helpful as I did not have to slow my build once my refined idea was approved by Chris. Using Minecraft
2022 Version
Empathizing with my Client
I met with my client and used the Zombie Apocalypse Brainstorming document to focus our work and make sure that I was recording their needs related to a zombie proof home.
Creating a Prototype
Before starting with Minecraft I did a pencil drawing of what I hoped my model would look like in Minecraft. I met with my client to show them this prototype and they approved of the drawing with minimal alterations.
I developed my final model based on my client's needs. The building starts with 5 empty floors that do not connect to floors 6 through 8. Access to the top floors is through a bubble elevator that goes from floor 1 directly to 6.
Minecraft Build
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Final Video Walkthrough
My final product was this walkthrough that I edited in WeVideo. I did multiple attempts at creating my video and did not realize success until I storyboarded it before recording. I also found a multitude of zombie sound effects that I added in multiple layers (see below) to add depth to the sound track.
