Manuel Sánchez
Web & Game Developer
I am currently working as a frontend developer at DIE ZEIT, where I build games and interactive experiences for one of Germany's biggest newspapers. I care deeply about accessibility (I'm a certified Web Accessibility Specialist), and I like building things that shouldn't exist yet. My background is in translation and cognitive linguistics, though.
Outside of that, I write about web development and accessibility, and I have a game studio where I create games in my free time called Barkhalla Studios. You can reach me via email.
I live in Hamburg with my girlfriend and our dog
Latest Blog Posts
Founding a GmbH in GermanyA first-hand walkthrough of founding a GmbH in Germany as a solo founder: notary, Handelsregister, Transparenzregister, USt-IdNr, Gewerbeanmeldung, and every cost I actually paid.
Game Engines and Ethics: Unreal, Unity & Godot Controversies ExplainedExplore the ethical challenges behind Unreal Engine, Unity, and Godot. From dark patterns and layoffs to pricing controversies and community conflicts.
Steam Deck in Godot Workflow: From Manual Testing to a Fast SSH with rsync SetupLearn how to test Godot Linux builds on Steam Deck efficiently. Start with a manual workflow and upgrade to a fast SSH + rsync setup!
How a YubiKey Transformed My Security Practice: A Developer's Complete Setup GuideA practical guide for macOS and Linux, including secure key strategy, common troubleshooting steps, and production-ready CLI examples.
Systems Thinking in Game Design: How Loops Create ExperienceWhat does “systems thinking” really mean in game design? Learn how mechanics, feedback loops, and player experience connect, with clear examples like Golden Sun and insights from Advanced Game Design.
Recap 2025A personal and professional summary of 2025, highlighting growth in web accessibility, freelancing, game development, and more.
Tailwind CSS: Why It Works for Some Projects — And Not for OthersA balanced, experience-based perspective on Tailwind CSS. Learn why Tailwind shines in certain projects, when it doesn’t, and why developer preference and cognitive patterns matter more than one-size-fits-all advice.
How to Build a Raspberry Pi Home Server with Tailscale VPN and Fritz!BoxStep-by-step guide to building a secure Raspberry Pi home server with Tailscale VPN and Fritz!Box, including remote file storage with Garage and Armadietto.
From Singletons to Services in Godot: Clean Architecture for The Runic EddaDiscover how I refactored The Runic Edda from singleton-heavy code to a clean Service Layer in Godot. Learn the pattern, benefits, and real examples.
Last Clients
Zwille von Kiesel (2025)LiveExample of Minimalist Portfolio.
Kita Mottenkiste (2025-2026)LiveWebsite for a kita in Altona/Ottensen, Hamburg.
Lichteinfall Design (2025-2026)In DevelopmentInterior design studio website for Carolin Prahl.
Emotional Producer (2026)LiveMusic production, mixing & mastering studio website.
Beat Heart Player (2026)LiveCustom music streaming player for artist Keenan Back.
You?AvailableContact me for more information!