Matteo Graizzaro

Game Programmer

Nodib

Summary

Nodib is a one-finger action/puzzle game I developed as a side project to take a break from my other game Ploppem.

It took me just a couple of weeks to complete it, using various tricks to speed up the process along the way. The lack of big challenges has helped me focus on trying new things, such as the use of social media to reach potential users and gather feedback.

Gameplay

The game is not complex and the player experience is divided between 8 levels, and with the exception of the last one, created just for fun, the others offer an increasing difficulty.

The player is tasked to collect coins scattered on the screen using a small ball. By launching the ball in an Angry Birds style, the player is able to make it bounce on the walls, the movement will not stop until it has returned to its original spot or another "safe" position.

To prevent the player to easily accomplish his/her goal I developed enemies that follow a specified pattern, killing the player on touch instantly.

Development

While I look at Nodib as a temporary break, I still tried to use it to improve my skills by challenging myself on creating a puzzle game, and also its level system. But on top of technical problems I had to overcome, I also addressed a problem that was hurting my other project Ploppem.

The lack of feedback.

This time I decided to increase my social presence and I started publishing game concepts, pulls, and other messages on Twitter. The reaction has not been noticeable, but I still managed to gather opinions on my work that helped polish the game and avoid some dangerous errors along the way.

In the end, developing Nodib has reached the desired objective, and I was able to return to Ploppem recharged and with even more ideas than before.
A happy ending after all.