The Void – Level 1: Ideas and Improvement Suggestions

[russell-cj]

This space is for sharing ideas to enhance the look, feel, and gameplay of Level 1.
Suggestions about sound design, lighting, or small environmental details are welcome.

Related discussion: The Void – Level 1: Bug reports and playtest observations #1424

[AlealarcViva]

Suggestion: Add Button Icons to Indicate the Game Mechanic
Since the game is a runner and the player can sprint using Shift, I suggest integrating button icons or visual cues on screen that indicate this mechanic. Right now, it’s not immediately clear to new players that pressing Shift allows them to run, so adding a simple icon or hint would make the gameplay more intuitive and accessible.

[wjt]

We already have hints like this in Fray's End (for directional input) and in the Musician LoreQuest's stealth round (for running). This worked OK when we only had 3 levels that had to be played in order but now I think we should have always-visible input hints. I'll file a task!

[russell-cj]

Adding to what was mentioned above, I think it would also be interesting to explore subtle visual indicators or contextual prompts that appear only when movement slows down. That way, we maintain immersion while still guiding the player naturally through the level.

[Gatorrante]

Suggestion: Death Sound Effect for Void Encounter

It might enhance the player experience to add a distinct death sound effect when the player is caught by the Void.
This could help reinforce the impact of the moment and improve audio feedback during gameplay.

[Gatorrante]

Suggestion: Percussion Layer During Void Chase

In runner-style games, chase sequences are often accompanied by background audio that builds tension and urgency.
We could add a rhythmic percussion layer — like drums or tribal beats — that activates whenever the Void starts chasing the player.
This would reinforce the feeling of pursuit and make the gameplay more intense and engaging.

[Gatorrante]

Suggestion: Victory Music After Talking to Matilda

After finishing the dialogue with Matilda and lighting up the level,
consider adding a short “success” or “victory” music cue.
This could reinforce the sense of relief and signal to the player that the Void is no longer a threat,
enhancing the emotional payoff and atmosphere of calm in that moment.