Introducing Magnetroid: A Puzzle Adventure Game Concept

 Hey everyone!

I’m excited to share an update on a game concept I’ve been working on. The game is called Magnetroid, and while it’s still in its early conceptual stages, I’m thrilled to give you a sneak peek into what I’ve been working on.

The Journey So Far: The Pitch and Feedback

A week ago, I had the chance to pitch this concept to my mentor during a presentation for my G2M course. I was given two minutes to present my game pitch. It was an exciting but nerve-wracking experience! I walked through my idea with a mockup screen showcasing the concept, mainly focusing on the central mechanic: magnetic gameplay.

After the pitch, my game design mentor, Rahul Sehgal, asked me a bunch of insightful questions about the gameplay based on the mockup. I did my best to answer, but honestly, I found myself saying, "Yeah, it could be that. Or that. Or even that. I still haven’t decided on it yet." I was certain about the magnetic mechanics, but I hadn’t fully fleshed out the details on how the mechanics would come together in levels or how they would work in harmony.

He was quite unforgiving in his remarks, but I truly appreciate it. I know it wasn’t to criticize me, but rather to push me to be more thorough, precise, and knowledgeable about my game. His tough questions made me realize that as a designer, I need to be confident and clear about how all the elements fit together.

He gave me some valuable advice:

Even though this is just a concept pitch, as a designer, you should have a clear vision. Don’t just think about the mechanics in isolation—think about how different mechanics work together. Imagine a level and play it in your head. See if it works. Keep changing it until it feels right. Be as knowledgeable about your game as possible so that you can answer any question without hesitation.

(Note: This is a paraphrase of the advice I received.)

Fleshing Out Magnetroid

Taking my mentor's advice to heart, I went back to the drawing board and started fleshing out Magnetroid in greater detail. I imagined how the different magnetic mechanics would interact with each other, how the player would move through levels, and how obstacles and enemies would challenge the player.

The core of Magnetroid revolves around magnetism—you’ll move through environments and solve challenges by strategically using attractors, repellers, and other magnetic machines.

The concept remained intact, but I began focusing on how things like timing, precision, and strategy would come into play. I also started thinking about the game world and the obstacles that would make this mechanic really shine. What would a level look like? How would I combine machines, enemies, and environments to create challenges that require both critical thinking and skillful gameplay?

I’m still working out the details, but I feel much more confident now about how these elements will come together.

What is Magnetroid?

Magnetroid is a puzzle adventure game where the player uses magnetism as the primary means of interacting with the world. You’ll move through environments, and solve challenges by strategically using attractors, repellers, and other magnetic machines.

While the game will emphasize puzzle-solving, it also introduces elements of timing and precision as the player must carefully manage their magnetic powers to navigate obstacles, avoid enemies, and unlock new areas.

Where I’m at Now

After reflecting on my mentor's advice, I’ve worked on expanding the concept to include new gameplay elements such as:

• Multiple Interactions: Machines and enemies that interact with your magnetic powers, requiring you to think about how each mechanic works together.
• Timing Challenges: Introducing obstacles like pistons or magnetic fields that require precise timing and positioning.
• Enemy Behaviors: Adding enemies like surveillance drones and patrolling thugs that create additional tension and force players to think ahead.

I’ve made progress, but there’s still a lot of work ahead. Now that I’ve fleshed out the concept more, I’m excited to see what my mentor thinks of the updated design. His advice has been invaluable in helping me think deeper about the game and its mechanics, and I’m eager to continue developing this idea further.

Why Share This Journey?

I’m documenting this process not only to track my progress but also to share the learning experience. As a solo developer or with a small team, it’s easy to get caught up in the mechanics, but it’s crucial to step back and think about the bigger picture. This blog is a way for me to reflect on my growth and share the challenges I face along the way.

It’s also a great way to engage with other game designers and enthusiasts. If you have any thoughts, suggestions, or questions, feel free to leave a comment! I’m always open to feedback.

Stay Tuned!

That’s all for now, but I’m excited to share more as Magnetroid evolves. If you’re interested in following along, be sure to check back for updates as the game’s concept continues to take shape.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, or questions—what would you like to see in a game like Magnetroid? Drop a comment below or reach out! Your feedback can help shape this journey, and I’d be thrilled to share insights from the development process that might inspire you, too.

Stay tuned, and let’s build something magnetic together!