World’s Easiest Platformer

*The video above is from a reviewer. TWEP is the first game he is reviewing in his video.

In 48 hours, I conceptualized, design and prototyped <<The World’s Easiest Platformer>>, a browser game based around the theme of “Out of Control” for the GMTK Game Jam 2020. TWEP secured overall 75th out of 5400 games. Play the game here!

The Concept
When I saw the theme “Out of Control”, I brainstormed a number of ideas. It was only 18 hours into the game jam that I was set on the idea of a playing as a person playing a game where his environment gets increasingly absurd - but he’s playing the easiest game. How can he not clear it? The concept felt strong with a core game loop and plenty of unique, hilarious scenarios to explore, and I loved the idiosyncratic and meta nature of not taking things too seriously.

Design
Given the short amount of time left, I focused on designing 4 levels, each further showcasing the potential of the concept. The first level is a basic, tutorial level. The second level introduces the first absurd annoyance, a coffee spill that locks the left arrow key. The third level introduces a bird that decides to peck at your space key. Finally, the fourth level is night time, and your player’s sleepy eyes keep blinking, blocking your game view. Unfortunately, I ran out of time to implement the eye blinking mechanic.

Experience
Initially I started the game jam with my 3D designer friend and and audio designer I met through the game jam Discord, but as time went on I grabbed my friends who happen to visit to help me out in sprite designs. While I am no stranger to hackathons, this was my first game jam and it was eye opening.

For more details, please contact me at mail@alanng.me for more details.