Platform games have been a staple in the gaming industry for decades. From the classics like Super Mario Bros and Sonic the Hedgehog to modern hits like Celeste and Hollow Knight, platform games have captured the hearts of players of all ages. As a graphic designer and avid gamer, I've played my fair share of platformers and have come to appreciate the artistry and design that go into creating these games. In this review, I'll be sharing my thoughts on various aspects of platform games, from level design to character development, and everything in between.
So let's dive in and explore the wonderful world of platform games!
Level Design: The Backbone of Platform Games
One of the most important elements of any platform game is the level design. It's the backbone of the game and can make or break the player's experience. A well-designed level should not only be visually appealing but also challenging and rewarding. As a graphic designer, I've always been drawn to games with unique and creative level design. Take for example, Cuphead. The game's hand-drawn art style and 1930s cartoon aesthetic are simply stunning. But what makes Cuphead truly stand out is its challenging levels that are both frustrating and satisfying to beat.
Another game that has impressed me with its level design is Ori and the Blind Forest. The game's gorgeous art style and atmospheric music create a sense of wonder and adventure. But what sets Ori apart from other platformers is its level design that seamlessly combines platforming and puzzle-solving. Each level is designed to test the player's skills and requires quick thinking and precise movements. It's a game that's both challenging and emotionally engaging.
Overall, a well-designed level should not only be visually stunning but also challenging and rewarding. It should push the player to their limits and provide a sense of accomplishment when completed.
Character Development: Bringing Life to Platform Games
Another important aspect of platform games is character development. A great platform game should have characters that are not only memorable but also relatable. As a graphic designer, I've always appreciated games with unique and well-designed characters. One game that stands out in terms of character development is Hollow Knight. The game's protagonist, the Knight, is a silent protagonist that communicates through body language and actions. Despite not having any dialogue, the Knight's journey is emotionally engaging and thought-provoking.
Another game that has impressed me with its character development is Shovel Knight. The game's titular character is a charming and lovable hero on a quest to save his beloved. The game's retro-inspired art style and catchy soundtrack create a sense of nostalgia that's hard to resist. Shovel Knight's character is not only well-designed but also relatable. His quest is one that many players can empathize with, making his journey all the more rewarding.
Overall, character development is an essential part of any platform game. It's what brings the game to life and makes it memorable. A great character should be well-designed, relatable, and emotionally engaging.
Game Mechanics: Making Platform Games Fun and Engaging
The game mechanics of a platform game are what make it fun and engaging. A great platformer should have mechanics that are easy to learn but hard to master. As a graphic designer, I've always appreciated games with unique and innovative game mechanics. One game that comes to mind is A Hat in Time. The game's time manipulation mechanic adds a new level of depth to the platforming genre. It allows the player to slow down time, manipulate objects, and even rewind time. It's a mechanic that's both fun and challenging to master.
Another game that has impressed me with its game mechanics is Celeste. The game's core mechanic is simple: the player can jump and dash in any direction. However, the game's levels are designed in such a way that the player must use these mechanics in creative and innovative ways. It's a game that's easy to pick up but hard to put down.
Overall, the game mechanics of a platform game are what make it fun and engaging. A great platformer should have mechanics that are easy to learn but hard to master. It should provide a sense of challenge and reward the player's skill.
Sound Design: Creating an Immersive Experience
Sound design is an often-overlooked aspect of platform games. However, it's an essential part of creating an immersive and engaging experience. As a graphic designer, I've always appreciated games with great sound design. One game that stands out in terms of sound design is Super Meat Boy. The game's retro-inspired soundtrack and sound effects create a sense of nostalgia that's hard to resist. The sound effects are also designed in such a way that they provide feedback to the player, making it easier to understand what's happening on screen.
Another game that has impressed me with its sound design is Rayman Legends. The game's soundtrack is a mix of original and licensed music that perfectly complements the game's whimsical art style. The sound effects are also designed in such a way that they provide feedback to the player, making it easier to understand what's happening on screen.
Overall, sound design is an essential part of creating an immersive and engaging experience. A great platformer should have a soundtrack that complements the art style and sound effects that provide feedback to the player.
Storytelling: Adding Depth to Platform Games
Storytelling is another important aspect of platform games. It's what adds depth and meaning to the player's journey. As a graphic designer, I've always appreciated games with great storytelling. One game that stands out in terms of storytelling is Little Nightmares. The game's dark and eerie art style create a sense of dread and unease. The game's story is told through its environments and characters, making it a unique and engaging experience.
Another game that has impressed me with its storytelling is Inside. The game's minimalist art style and atmospheric music create a sense of tension and unease. The game's story is told through its environments and subtle details, making it a thought-provoking and emotional journey.
Overall, storytelling is an essential part of creating a memorable platform game. It's what adds depth and meaning to the player's journey. A great platformer should have a story that's engaging, thought-provoking, and emotionally impactful.
Conclusion
Platform games have been a staple in the gaming industry for decades, and for good reason. They provide a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all ages. As a graphic designer and avid gamer, I've come to appreciate the artistry and design that goes into creating these games. In this review, I've shared my thoughts on various aspects of platform games, from level design to character development, and everything in between. I hope this review has given you a greater appreciation for the wonderful world of platform games.
| Aspect | Example Games |
|---|---|
| Level Design | Cuphead, Ori and the Blind Forest |
| Character Development | Hollow Knight, Shovel Knight |
| Game Mechanics | A Hat in Time, Celeste |
| Sound Design | Super Meat Boy, Rayman Legends |
| Storytelling | Little Nightmares, Inside |