I'm Ben.

Software Engineer // Mandarin Speaker // Game Dev

Ben's Avatar
📍 Based in Canada
🗣️ Mandarin (Advanced)

The Mission

Welcome! I started this blog to share my thoughts related to web, game, and technology development. With a primary focus on Ruby on Rails, I hone my skills in developing robust and scalable web applications.

My background in game development provides a unique perspective on crafting apps—prioritizing immersive experiences and creative problem-solving.

Building Stray

I’m currently building Stray. It is a link-sharing service aimed at rescuing people from the "Big Tech" algorithm by facilitating the discovery of the small web.

Currently in Active Development

English Fox

Improving vocabulary through AI. English Fox leverages LLMs to provide learners with superior definitions and contextual example sentences.

Live at englishfox.app

MMORPG Emulation & AI

Featured on Kotaku

I served as a core developer for the Darkstar Project, an ambitious open-source recreation of the Final Fantasy XI server. My work focused on re-engineering monster AI and refining core gameplay mechanics to match the original "punishing" experience of the 2000s era.

"It’s made possible by the sinister-sounding Dark Star FFXI server emulator ..." — My contributions helped preserve the technical legacy of early-era MMOs for thousands of players.

AI & Open Source

As a passionate advocate of AI and Open Source, I leverage machine learning to find solutions that enhance software. I actively contribute to the community via:

The Flash Era

Previously, I founded Throw The Project, a Flash game studio. This experience ignited my passion for interactive media and still informs how I build software today.