How to Design a Successful Platforming Game

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Look before you jump.

   In real life, you wouldn't want to jump off a cliff without checking for a safe place to land.
   
   Similarly, your game shouldn't require the player to jump to a platform that can't be seen onscreen.
   
   That doesn't mean you can't surprise the player; just avoid "leaps of faith."
2. 2

   Step 2: Keep it possible.

   At no point should it be impossible to complete a level.
   
   If you want the player to fall into a "trap," make it possible to continue the level (without perishing!).
   
   That means no inescapable obstacles or enemies that can't be defeated. , Put enemies in places that fit the level design and add to the challenge in a specific way.
   
   It might seem tempting to put a bunch of enemies in one place, but don't
   - it's been done way too many times already.
   
   Instead, use enemies in clever ways, or to create a puzzle for the player to solve. , Don't put coins or bonus items in places that can't be reached or that lead the player to an inevitable death.
   
   The player should be able to theoretically collect every power-up in the level, even if it is difficult to do so.
   
   So don't put doors, coins or power-ups in arbitrary places
   - it will only make the player frustrated.
3. 3

   Step 3: Use strategic energy placement.

4. 4

   Step 4: Don't be arbitrary.

Detailed Guide

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