About

What I Do

I build software for the web, with particular expertise in:

• Full-Stack Web Development: React, Node.js, TypeScript, Express
• Real-Time Applications: WebSocket systems, multiplayer gaming, live updates
• Game Development: Browser-based games, AI opponents, game logic implementation
• Database Design: MongoDB, data modeling, optimization
• Testing: Jest, Playwright, accessibility testing, TDD

I believe in writing clean, well-tested code that prioritizes both functionality and user experience. Every project I work on is built with accessibility and performance in mind.

The Games Platform

My most substantial personal project is the browser games platform at games.stephenharlow.com. I grew up playing Gin Rummy with my grandmother and mother, and I wanted to recreate that experience online so I could play with family no matter where we are.

The project was also an experiment in "vibe coding" - every single line of code in the entire codebase was written through a combination of Claude and Gemini. Over 230,000 lines, all AI-assisted. It's been a fascinating way to learn how to collaborate with AI tools effectively, and the result is a platform I'm genuinely proud of.

What started as a simple Gin Rummy game grew into a full-featured gaming platform:

• 10 Different Games: Gin Rummy, Scrabble, Texas Hold'em, UNO, Cribbage, Trash, War, Solitaire, and Pong
• Real-Time Multiplayer: Play with friends anywhere in the world with instant synchronization
• AI Opponents: Three difficulty levels with game-specific strategies
• League System: Competitive rankings with ELO ratings
• Accessibility: WCAG-compliant design with keyboard navigation and screen reader support

The platform represents over 230,000 lines of code, ~1,500 automated tests, and countless hours of refinement. It's free to play with no ads interrupting gameplay.

My personal favorite is the 2-minute Quick Scrabble mode. There's no time for overthinking, no time to sneak a peek at a word finder, no time for any tomfoolery - just fast, chaotic wordplay. It completely changes the dynamic of the game.

Read more about the available games or explore the technical architecture behind the platform.

Development Philosophy

I approach software development with a few core principles:

Test Everything

Thorough testing catches bugs before users do. I maintain strict test coverage and never skip tests to ship faster.

Accessibility First

Good software works for everyone. I build with keyboard navigation, screen readers, and WCAG compliance from the start, not as an afterthought.

Keep It Simple

The best solution is usually the simplest one that works. I avoid over-engineering and unnecessary complexity.

User Experience Matters

Technical excellence means nothing if users can't figure out how to use the software. Every feature should feel intuitive.

This Website

Here you'll find:

• Game documentation with detailed rules and house rule options
• Technical deep-dives into how things are built
• Game history articles exploring the origins of classic games
• A glossary of gaming terminology
• Guides like how to host the perfect game night

Get in Touch

I'm always happy to hear from fellow developers, gamers, or anyone interested in my work.

Email: srhdeveloper@gmail.com

You can also visit the contact page for more details on what I can help with.