Cliffhanger
Overview
Cliffhanger is a high-octane bullet hell action game featuring a structured level sequence set within an open-world map layout. Players have the agency to choose their progression path through various mystical worlds, each culminating in high-complexity boss encounters. A point of pride for this project: every single asset—from mechanics to art—was handcrafted without the use of artificial intelligence, ensuring a pure, artistically driven experience.
Development Time: 6 Months (Ideation to Release)
The Design Challenge
The technical crux of development was the implementation of a robust state-saving and teleportation system. Orchestrating seamless transitions between distinct game scenes while accurately preserving the game state—including projectile trajectories, temporary object positions, and precise player health data—at specific checkpoints presented a significant architectural challenge in GML.
Post-Mortem
In retrospect, I would prioritize a complete overhaul of the dialogue system. While functional for narrative delivery at the time, the UI/UX lacks the visual polish of contemporary standards. Additionally, I would invest more time into bespoke ambient soundscapes to deepen the player’s immersion within the game’s unique atmosphere.
