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Using gravity as a gameplay tool – curious what you think of this approach
r/IndieDev
7/11/2025
Content Summary
The post introduces the game *Somnambulo* where gravity shifts allow the character to walk from floor to wall seamlessly. The author seeks feedback on this mechanic. Comments discuss the implementation quality, suggest improvements for transitions, and reference similar games. A significant portion debates whether the post was AI-generated, citing the game's disclosure of AI use in development.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream Opinions:
- Most users appreciate the gravity mechanic but suggest improvements to transition smoothness and camera work.
- Many reference existing games with similar mechanics (e.g., Gravity Rush, Mario Galaxy) as benchmarks.
Controversial Opinions:
- Significant debate occurs about whether the post was AI-generated, with users analyzing writing style and the game's disclosed AI usage.
- Some dismiss the mechanic as unoriginal ("walking on walls has been a thing ever before you were born").
Different Perspectives:
- Design-focused: Suggestions for isometric cameras to reduce confusion vs. defenders of dynamic camera angles.
- AI ethics: Arguments about AI use in game development, ranging from acceptance (as a tool) to rejection (as inauthentic).
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Gravity Management | https://store.steampowered.com/app/3024730/Department_of_Gravity_Management/ | Game | Gravity changing mechanics, level design |
| Metro Gravity | Not provided | Game | Similar gravity mechanic |
| Gravity Rush | Not provided | Game | Instant and seamless transitions |
| Kula World | Not provided | Game | Gravity mechanic |
| Mario Galaxy | Not provided | Game | Gravity mechanic |
| Penacony | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5awQeXdx30&t=2340s | Game | Gravity mechanic |
| Manifold Garden | Not provided | Game | Gravity mechanic |
| Honkai Star Rails | Not provided | Game | Smooth implementation |
| DARQ | https://store.steampowered.com/app/433550/DARQ_Complete_Edition/ | Game | Gravity mechanic |
| And Yet It Moves | Not provided | Game | Gravity mechanic, character freezes during transition |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Transition animations are too slow or abrupt
- Camera flipping can be confusing
- Mechanics can feel repetitive if not implemented well
- Players may get disoriented with constant gravity changes
Problems to Solve:
- How to make gravity transitions smoother and more intuitive
- How to avoid player confusion with camera movements
- How to innovate on existing gravity mechanics to avoid repetition
- How to effectively ramp up complexity for players
Potential Solutions:
- Implement smoother transition animations (e.g., stepping instead of floating)
- Use fixed or isometric camera views to reduce confusion
- Study successful implementations like Gravity Rush for seamless transitions
- Extensive playtesting to refine mechanics and difficulty curve
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Leveraging unique mechanics for differentiation
- Community feedback for polish and improvement
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Showcasing unique gameplay mechanics to generate interest
- Engaging with indie dev communities for feedback and visibility
Monetization & Product:
- Focusing on innovative gameplay as key selling point
- Ensuring mechanics are accessible through gradual difficulty progression
User Engagement:
- Actively seeking feedback from target audience (indie devs/players)
- Building community by referencing similar successful games