Prototype – Organism


Above you find a prototype, below you find the expanded concept.

The prototype features original scripted logic, such as:

Attachment Controller – Handles molecule pickup using Raycast2D. At the time I used tags, but this approach wouldn’t scale well. It integrates with cursor, player, and molecule systems.

Cursor Logic – The cursor became the main interaction hub. It selects molecules (like a radial menu) using raycasts, Unity’s vectors, and LINQ. It also handles ejection, explosion initiation, and even UI for force feedback, which in hindsight might be too much responsibility.

Door System – Lets the player pass only when holding a specific set of attachments. The condition check is hardcoded and runs every frame, though it should really use events.

Enemy Logic – Very basic: collision detection, health, and simple animation.

Explosion – Combines input control, AoE detection, VFX, and object cleanup.

Player – Standard movement plus integration with the rest of the systems.

Tutorial – Onboards the player through a sequence of condition checks.

Here you find the project repo

Organism: A Microscopic Odyssey

Concept Overview: Embark on a captivating journey inside the microcosm of life with Organism, a game that marries the intrigue of biological exploration with the thrill of strategic gameplay. In this thought-provoking adventure, players navigate a microscopic subspace through the intricate landscape of a host body, battling against a mysterious entity living inside the organism. The game’s narrative unfolds with each level, revealing the complex interplay between the host and ‘alien’ entities, reminiscent of a virus or some complex lifeform. Players must harness the power of various molecules, each acting as a key to unlock new areas and overcome enemies inside the body, reflecting the delicate balance of intervention and harmony within living systems.

Gameplay Essence: Organism is a unique blend of 2D Action-Adventure and Arcade Side-Scrolling Shooter genres, presenting a reimagined Metroidvania experience. It appeals to core fans, offering a deep dive into game mechanics and inciting cultural discussions. The game stands out with its meticulously designed levels, each themed after different body parts, and requires players to engage in strategic battles and puzzles. The atmospheric design and innovative mechanics make for a compelling gameplay experience.

Unique Selling Points:

  • Distinctive level themes based on various organs and tissues
  • Strategic gameplay that combines puzzle-solving with dynamic combat
  • Engrossing level design and a captivating moody atmosphere

Mechanics and Features:

  • Innovative molecule attachment system for character enhancement
  • Physics-based interactions, including molecule ejection and ricochet mechanics
  • Varied interactables and items, such as Save Cells, Membrane Doors, and Spawners
  • Diverse enemy types, including adaptive immune cells and the enigmatic final entity

Development and Resources:

  • Built on Unity, leveraging various built in features such as Cinemachine for dynamic camera control
  • Intuitive controls designed for seamless navigation and combat
  • A rich narrative unfolding through the levels, from the blood vessels to the heart, and ultimately to the womb

Vision: Organism is not just a game; it’s a journey into the unseen battles within us, inspired by real-world biological and health challenges. It invites players to ponder the delicate balance of life, intervention, and survival, wrapped in an engaging, strategic gameplay experience. Join us in this microscopic odyssey and uncover the mysteries lying within the very fabric of life.

Generic Level Entities

Specifically: how the Molecule Selector works
Some design notes and ideas
Some planning notes