Maskonauts: TAP' TAP' Trouble! is a casual arcade game made with Godot to experiment with a lightweight workflow (details below).

Building the game

• Core Mechanics: I used this Zenva tutorial as a starting point to implement the core "Flappy Bird-like" concept.

• Game Feel & Polish: I implemented character and SFX feedback, then fine-tuned the physics and gravity to enhance the overall game feel.

• Asset Repurposing: I reused assets previously created for Maskonauts: Chat'Attack, including 2D sprites, animations, SFX, musics, and fonts, and adapted them to fit and enhance the new game setting.

• New Game Mechanics: I added a High Score system with the specific constraint of saving data within the web browser. I also introduced New Collectibles with varying effects, a Victory Screen with its own music theme and visuals, and a new Bounce Mechanic. This allows the player to use the top and bottom of the screen to bounce at a tight angle to collect special coins and destroy enemies. Lastly, I added the possibility to unlock an Infinite Mode after completing the game for the first time.

• New Rules: I redesigned the health system so that it declines with every jump. This creates a perfect balance between energy management and risk-taking. Hovering allows for precise control at the cost of higher energy consumption, while bouncing enables travel with minimal energy loss, though it proves trickier and riskier if an enemy or obstacle spawns in your path. By mastering these mechanics, players will find that progression feels more natural, rewarding both skill and perseverance.

• Enemies: I introduced 5 unique enemy types, each featuring distinct behaviors: stationary, patrolling on various axes, and pursuing the player on sight. To ensure a smooth difficulty curve, I implemented a dynamic spawning system. Each enemy is governed by specific rules, including minimum spawn times, probability rates, and customized attributes such as speed, field of view, and designated spawn zones.

• Environment: I created new assets (backgrounds, obstacles, stars, and clouds) and implemented systems to handle their spawning logic, movement speed, and animations. I also added particle effects for cloud and boundary interactions to enhance the game feel. Finally, I integrated a subtle Day & Night cycle that dynamically shifts the background as the player progresses through the level.

• UX/UI Design: I designed the UI to be self-explanatory, using icons and colors to ensure goals and gameplay elements are immediately clear at a glance. I also added visuals and sound effects to every button and action. Additionally, I implemented multiple control schemes for both menus and in-game play, including keyboard, mouse, and controller support.

• Options Menu: I added an options menu with sound settings (music and SFX). I also created a theme split into two tracks, each assigned to a specific slider so the player can immediately hear the result of their changes. Additionally, I added an option to reset progression (high scores and settings).