I want to take a moment to talk a bit about the high-level design concept behind Memory’s Reach, and what I’m trying to achieve with the game. I’m aiming to build what you might call a “Puzzlevania” - a blending of the genres of adventure-puzzle (defined by a focus on exploration, narrative, and puzzle solving) and metroidvania (notable for their focus on expansive, interconnected worlds and ability-gated progression). I believe these two genres are well suited for mashing together into something new.
Game Structure
In Memory’s Reach the primary gameplay comes in the form of interacting with and solving puzzles, while the overarching structure of the game is one of an interconnected world that gradually reveals its secrets as you solve puzzles and acquire new abilities.
It’s a structure built around the concept of ability-gated progression. While exploring the world you will inevitably come across locked or obstructed pathways and other inaccessible areas. But by solving key puzzles in certain areas you will acquire power ups that grant new abilities.
I’ll talk a bit more about abilities in a future dev diary, but some examples include things like a Range Finder, that allows you to measure distances and interact with distant objects; a Translocator, that allows teleportation across wide gaps and to hard-to-reach places; and Radiation Shields, which allow safe passage through zones of deadly radiation.
Returning to the previously inaccessible area with this new ability in hand, you can bypass the obstacle and access more of the game’s world. This loop repeats, and gradually over time you will amass an assortment of powerful abilities and unravel an ever increasing world to explore.
Always More to Explore
In addition to progressing through the main story, these abilities will also allow you to access a range of secondary and hidden areas off the main path. It’s here that you will find optional collectible items (tied into the game’s story), and even some bonus optional abilities!
I want the world to feel like it continues to grow - there’s always more to explore, more puzzles to solve, and more secrets to find.
If you’re a fan of exploration based games, puzzles, and metroidvanias (as I am), then I’m aiming for Memory’s Reach to be exactly the game for you ːsteamhappyː