PORT
Solo project
OVERVIEW
Port is a 2D platformer, built around the core mechanic of teleporting. Inspired by Celeste, Port is designed to be a challenging but rewarding experience. Balance is achieved through single screen level design and little delay between failure and trying again.
Development process
CASE STUDY
As Celeste was a key influence on this game, development begun by reverse engineering its movement mechanics. This helped me to understand why the movement was so satisfying and how it was tuned.
Prototype
To move the project forward, the dash of Celeste was swapped for a teleport. This allows players to move through solid platforms, resulting in a new player experience.
Whitebox
After testing and iteration of the core mechanics, levels were blocked out. These were design introduce the player to key concepts gradually while presenting an escalating challenge.
Visual Assets
Final tweaks were made to level design and the core mechanics, informed by playtest feedback. Once locked, visual assets were applied to complete the vertical slice.
Level DESIGN
Final tweaks were made to level design and the core mechanics, informed by playtest feedback. Once locked, visual assets were applied to complete the vertical slice.
Player path
Jump
Teleport
Introduces run and jump mechanics.
Introduces teleport mechanic.
Introduces teleport mechanic as double jump.
Reinforces teleport mechanic as double jump with additional challenge
Introduces coins, these need to be collected before the exit appears.
Introduces wall slides
Introduces lightening barriers, these cannot be teleported through.
Escalates challenge.
Escalates challenge.
Escalates challenge. Can be completed via more than one path.