A Short Hike, July 2019
Medium: Game
Creators: Adam Robinson-Yu
A Short Hike is another game that abides from the chaotic mechanics of both the games above. This game is an explorative and narrative-driven cozy game where the player who is a bird character must walk, run and fly to the top of the mountain. During the player’s journey they can witness the beauty of the environment, talk to other inhabitants, and solve puzzles to keep you engaged for every moment of time. You as the player can collect feathers which act as like stamina in order to fly around the island. The game has a built in story that takes you through this journey up, without knowing what is instore for you at the top. As you venture your way to the top things begin to be revealed.
Why I chose this: I chose this as one of my precedents because of its amazing use of the pixelation shader. While having a pixel shader does help with hiding detail in some assets, it creates a unique art aesthetic. A Short Hike makes great use of it showing the charm of the shader, but also uses vibrant colors to embody a healthy, adorable, and cozy atmosphere for players to embark upon. Similarly to the game I want to create, players will unknowingly make their way up this challenging mountain in order to discover things about themselves and achieve their greatest accomplishments.
Baby Steps, TBD
Medium: Game
Creators: Bennett Foddy, Max Boch, Gabe Cuzzillo
Published by Devolver Digital
Baby Steps is yet another game where physics matters. Wet mud, slipper rocks, strong winds, and nature’s obstacles will become the main antagonist as you play this game, causing you to lose grip, slide, or fall flat. The game also embodies the sense of humor as the character complains and talks throughout every failure. This is a game where everything your feet touch matters.