Hello there!
We’re excited to share a new update on the development of Locomochi, our wholesome puzzle game where you control a tiny toy locomotive 🚂🧩✨
This month has been all about making the game feel more cohesive as we continue building our Vertical Slice.
We've integrated the new locomotive into the game and started working on the whistle mechanic.
It's still early, but having the new train in-engine already makes Locomochi feel much closer to its final identity.
We've completed the environment blocking for the first three levels.
Even without final art, this has completely changed the atmosphere of the game and helped us better visualize the toy world we're building.
We've started integrating visual and audio feedback across many gameplay systems.
Most effects are still placeholders, but they already make the world feel more responsive and easier to understand.
Jose has also implemented input buffering, making interactions feel smoother and more forgiving.
The moving and rotating platforms now have their first art integration.
We deliberately postponed texturing while we continue validating the mechanics and improving controls based on playtesting feedback.
We've started concepting, prototyping, and blocking the HUB.
This system will connect all levels into a more cohesive world and provide a clearer structure for progression and optional content.
Yes, we've changed the camera again.
The new setup focuses on three key views: close-up locomotive shots, environmental views, and strategic puzzle-solving views.
We're also exploring "Camera Beacons" that would allow players to get an overview of the level. We're still deciding whether this should be a special building or a button available at any time.
We've made good progress defining the overall UX structure of the game, including game states and interface behaviours.
Meanwhile, Carla has continued working on the new UI mockups, helping us establish a much clearer visual direction.
Next up, we'll be focusing on:
🌳 Environment development and visual polish
🏡 HUB progression
🚂 Locomotive customization validation
📷 Camera iteration and player guidance
🎨 UI implementation
✨ More VFX, SFX, and game feel improvements
Thanks for being part of this journey with us 💛
Every day our project is becoming more real, and your feedback keeps us pushing forward!
See you in the next update!
Jon Gomez
Producer & Game Designer
Little Lantern Games