Home/r/IndieDev/2025-06-27/#3247
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We had a blast designing this boss. How does it look in action?

r/IndieDev
6/27/2025

SAAS TOOLS

SaaSURLCategoryFeatures/Notes
Toon BoomNot providedAnimation SoftwareUsed for creating 2D teaser animation
Spine 2DNot provided2D Animation ToolMentioned for creating motion for boss character

USER NEEDS

Pain Points:

  • Jarring transition between cutscenes and gameplay
  • Inconsistent boss size between cutscene and gameplay
  • Underwhelming attack animations (e.g., jump slash attack)
  • Lack of visual impact feedback during combat
  • Bright character appearance in gameplay vs. darker cutscene
  • Minimal shadows in gameplay environment

Problems to Solve:

  • Improve smoothness of cutscene-to-gameplay transitions
  • Maintain consistent scale/immersion between cinematic and gameplay
  • Enhance combat animations to feel more impactful
  • Create better visual feedback for attacks
  • Improve lighting/shadow consistency between cutscenes and gameplay
  • Add environmental shadows to gameplay

Potential Solutions:

  • Add fade effects or dark screens during transitions
  • Use zoomed-in camera angles at scene start
  • Add autoblock/dodge mechanics after cutscenes
  • Redesign basic attacks to be more unique/telegraphed
  • Increase screen shake or visual effects for impact
  • Adjust character lighting/shading in gameplay
  • Implement shadow rendering system

GROWTH FACTORS

Effective Strategies:

  • Soliciting and incorporating user feedback
  • Offering game customization options (difficulty settings)
  • Running discounts (current 50% off on Steam)

Marketing & Acquisition:

  • Sharing gameplay clips on social media/Reddit
  • Engaging directly with community feedback
  • Leveraging Steam platform for visibility

Monetization & Product:

  • Discount pricing strategy to drive sales
  • Multiple difficulty levels for broader appeal
  • Customizable gameplay elements (combat/platforming)
  • Strong product-market fit for animation-focused gamers

User Engagement:

  • Active developer responses to comments
  • Openness to critique and suggestions
  • Community wishlisting on Steam
  • Referencing pop culture (e.g., Ben 10, Bloodborne) for relatability