Considering that numerous individuals keep wondering what truly makes a great 2D platformer, you’ll see now a list of the most common features of various classic platforming games. Of course, there are also other aspects that make these games so great, but the ones mentioned below seem to be a shared base that pop ups again and again.
1. The Moveset
The moveset is a vague term that includes all properties and capacities of the character. They comprise the classic run and jump, as well as other mechanics like sliding and the principles of different behaviors- for example, what happens to the character when an enemy hits him or how much time does one need to accelerate to the maximum speed. Besides, everlasting modifiers such as the boss weapons of Mega Man and short-term powerups like Mario’s Starman also belong to the moveset. So what makes a good moveset?
First of all, you should know that the moveset has to be precise and clear. It’s simply awful to run over a collectible and not grab it. Or to get hit by an opponent who is obviously not touching you. These experiences can be very maddening and they make the players feel fooled by the title. Therefore, the interface has to be fast and responsive. Input must have an instant effect on the character so that it can provide a sense of control. And keep in mind that granularity and the various control techniques like pressing, holding and tapping are essential, since they offer precision to the movement.
2. The Levels
As far as the aesthetic level is concerned, each zone that is included in the game should feature a distinctive look. That distinctiveness is frequently accompanied by a plethora of interactive items that add variety and support the pacing, but the problem is that numerous game developers tend to overlook an essential aspect: the separation of backgrounds and foregrounds.
You might say this is an insignificant issue, but we’re not taking care of it, it can puzzle and annoy the player. When it comes to the environments, they’re usually packed with various kinds of bridges, ladders, slides, trampolines and so on. Basically, they represent playgrounds for the user and one of their roles is to improve the game’s flow. Smart playgrounds also encourage the player to make use of his numerous abilities. And they can encourage him in a subtle way- pointing out a path through an array of collectibles- or they can force him- demanding the player to scale a wall so that he can move forward.
For instance, a path of collectibles might guide the user to a remote place that comprises a helpful powerup. In order to get there, the player has to perform numerous wall jumps and leaps through the collectibles. On his way back, the player doesn’t have to gather collectibles anymore and the descent is way easier and more pleasant.
3. The States
States are logical denominations that include different behaviors, as well as features of “game objects”. They provide the classic end-level bosses and enemies with an elementary intelligence and invite the player to decode and make use of their patterns. Once again, this heartens the player to utilize various skills to defeat his enemies. Conveyor bells, breakable walls, springs and swinging walls flood the playground and convert the inert image into a breathing environment. What’s more, states foster improvisation and experimentation. And even though they’re completely predictable, they improve the replay value.
Last but not least, learning the patterns and mechanics of a title enables the player to get better at it. And the flow generated by wisely combining state mechanics, levels and movesets are main elements that make platformers so exciting.
Author Bio: Jason Phillips is a gaming enthusiast and tech writer. He always stays updated with new video games and gaming gadgets launched or will launch in the market. Apart he works for site Train Games 365 which is for playing Train Games online.