GeoCachAR is an augmented reality geocaching adventure app, designed to get people out into the world and exploring their surroundings, while playing a fun and interactive game. Users can choose a map, pick a waypoint, solve a clue, and then ultimately use their phone's camera to discover the code, hidden in the world using AR. They can then enter the codes on the app to complete the map, before moving on to the next challenge. All of the information is stored safely and securely in their profile, for when they return to play again and again. Can you break the code to unlock the treasure?

We used Javascript, React Native, Expo, React Native Maps, Express, Firebase Auth & Database, MindAR, Jest.

Javascript was a natural choice, as we all had previous experience with it, and React Native built on knowledge we'd gained using React, while giving us the opportunity to move into mobile app development. React Native Maps is built on this library and allowed us to seamlessly integrate engaging interactive maps, which was a major part of our app. Expo meant we could view our app live as we developed it, helping us to not only create an appealing and accessible design, but also build it ready for production. We chose to use MindAR for augmented reality, as after testing the available options, it was decided this was the tool best suited for the task at hand. Express gave us a sense of familiarity and a foundation to start building our backend. This meant we had a solid base to launch from, as we delved into using Firebase for our Database for the first time. This was a great opportunity for us to learn about using a DB with a totally different structure than we'd all used before, and it also made sense when using Firebase Auth to handle our user authentication, as these were designed to be used together. Finally, Jest was used to test our backend, as having a test suite we already knew, allowed us to focus more on creating a better app, whilst making sure it functioned as it should.

We faced many challenges throughout our project, but through open communication and collaboration, we were able to work together and overcome them as a team. One of the biggest challenges was working with a new tech stack, many parts of which we hadn't previously used. This gave us the opportunity to develop our skills in problem-solving and rapidly digesting documentation, allowing us to create an app that we are truly proud of.