If you've owned a Windows 3.0 desktop computer before, chances are you've tried Microsoft SkiFree! Skimoji is a less than faithful recreation of SkiFree, using emojis! Play Skimoji here
I grew up playing retro computer games and I really enjoyed the mechanics of SkiFree.
Also, I wanted to have mobile support because skiing on your phone while on the toilet is peak 2025.
Prior to making Skimoji, I played the original SkiFree and got curious to see if Claude could figure out a clone in React. It started to produce an emoji version of the game. I thought, why not make it for real?
It wasn't straightforward though, if you look closely at the Skier (when facing front) they are built using 🥢 and 🧍. The Snow Monster is made with 👹 and ☃️
You'd also be surprised to know that Windows OS is relatively backward in emoji supports. For example, I had to use a 🗿 instead of a rock because Windows does not have a rock emoji but MacOS does.
I've yet to try it out in Linux or other OS-es. If there's a missing emoji, please report in Issues.
Yes and No. While Claude gave a foundation, I still had to piece together the entire puzzle. Claude is definitely helpful here, figuring out the physics, world and other important mechanics that made it possible.
Of course, that's why it's called Skimoji, not a Skifree clone. However, I do have some interest in trying to get some of the original features into Skimoji, such as "The Dog", "The Chair Lift", "The Moving Tree" (sorry I don't know the official names)
Some Skimoji features are also not in the original SkiFree, and that's intentional. If you have a problem with it, feel free to your own clone with Claude or ChatGPT. I made this because I want to play it on a phone.
BTW, there's already an ongoing recreation of SkiFree called SkiFree JS, you can try it there.
Let me say it again: Skimoji is a less than faithful recreation of SkiFree. In case you're unsure, SkiFree is a rage game. There are ways to win, but I'm not gona tell you that. Figure it out yourself. You need a tip? Learn more about SkiFree.
Congrats, you've figured out the trick! Please don't share it to others. You can let me know what I can do better in Issues. I'm still trying to replicate SkiFree's mechanics as close as I can.
Check if someone already reported it in Issues, and if not, make a new one. Read the Contributing Guidelines first. This is a solo project, so be patient!
Sure, tell me about it in Issues. I can't promise I'll add everything (I have a job), but I love hearing ideas. Especially if you have good emoji suggestions for new obstacles.
- Original SkiFree by Chris Pirih (1991) - the GOAT
- Built by @charlestehio
- Inspired by nostalgia
- Claude, my intern developer
That's it. Go ski some slopes and try not to get eaten. 🎿👹