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Gleam Game Jam Sparks 'Cielos' 3D Prototype

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Developer agj participated in the first-ever Gleam game jam, creating "Cielos," a non-polygonal 3D prototype inspired by classic arcade aesthetics. The nine-day event centered on the theme "Lucy in the sky with diamonds," referencing Gleam's mascot. The project's source code is available on GitHub, demonstrating the language's capability for creative, real-time graphics work.

Gleam, which reached version 1.0 in 2024, compiles to both BEAM and JavaScript. The developer found its learning curve smooth, using Exercism and the Lustre library. Key strengths include a Hindley-Milner type system with algebraic data types, a powerful pattern matching syntax, and a unified CLI for formatting and compilation. The community is noted for its explicit inclusivity.

However, Gleam's lack of effect management and unverified FFI interfaces with Erlang or JavaScript present limitations compared to purer functional languages. The developer sees it as a versatile tool that blends Elm's simplicity with broader backend potential. Future iterations of "Cielos" may explore more ambitious 3D mobility, building on this foundational engine.