Theme: Conflict
Sub-Themes: Internal Conflict, Self-Reflection, Identity
High Road is a game where players embark on a journey where they encountering two sides of their identity: Desire and Doubt. As they progress, players choose paths aligned with either two of the reflections, unlocking fragmented memories by completing levels on said paths that reveal the protagonist’s motivations or regrets. Each choice subtly shapes the protagonist’s story, leading to an ending that reflects their journey of self-discovery.
When choosing between paths influenced by Desire and Doubt, each completed level rewards players with a memory that offers a look into the protagonist's past or what they want to achieve the most. Depending on the chosen path, these memories reveal themes of ambition or acceptance. This will build an understanding of the protagonist's identity.
The game neither rewards nor punishes choosing ‘Desire’ or ‘Doubt’. Instead, each path shapes the landscape, navigation difficulty and the protagonist’s perception of their journey. There’s no right or wrong choice, as this truly allows players to freely explore both sides and form their own understanding based on what route they resonate with more.
This was one of the CORE mechanics that I was debating on whether or not to add to this concept. However, with some feedback that I received from our Guest Lecturer (Week 6), I decided to add it as it was evident that other players favoured more freedom and less linearity, especially in a self-reflective game
Audio Log of short game idea pitch to our Week VI Guest Speaker (Sorry for unequal volume in some areas)
The protagonist is wrestling with internal conflict and are set on this journey to find clarity, acceptance, or purpose.
The protagonist’s identity remains intentionally vague at first, with details revealed only through memories and interactions.
The goal could represent something unique for each player, leaving room for interpretation. Are they climbing to escape something, to reach new heights, or to reconcile a past regret? This keeps the protagonist’s journey relatable, allowing players to project their own meaning onto the ascent.
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Desire Route:
Path Characteristics: Desire’s route is mainly more appealing and seems to lead directly toward the goal.
Navigational Benefits and Challenges: Desire’s path offers physical obstacles. For example: Spinning turbines or moving platforms. In a way, its very straightforward and the player only needs to consider how good they are with precision, landing, jumping and overall timing.
Gameplay Feel: Desire’s path is exciting but requires careful judgment. It’s easy to feel overconfident, which can lead to the protagonist falling off a platform. This is meant to reflect how easy it is for individuals to overestimate themselves while planning ahead.
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