Gameplay Genre - Music and Beats

We’ll be honest, the Music and Beats genre is not something that had us hugely excited. We wouldn’t really consider making a music based game and, on the surface, it all seemed somewhat meh.

However, this is one of the reasons we love doing these live sessions, when doing our research for the show it soon became apparent that there are a couple of key takeaways that cross over to all games and especially in level design.

The first is what we’re calling “Rhythm Arcs”.

These exist in all these music based games and are a powerful component in creating flow in level design. Think of these as a natural, repeating pulse that feels inherently satisfying.

Let us try and explain further with this example and why this differs a bit from what could be classed as a game loop.

Run Collect  >>  Jump  >>  Run Collect  >>  Jump >>  Run Collect  >>  Jump

Rhthym Arc in Level Design

Games that do this exceptionally well are Color Switch and the original Flappy Bird which was removed from the store.

When you play these, and even if you don’t realise it, you’re put into a rhythmic flow by the repeating core mechanic and level structure.

It’s a great way to self check your levels and see if you can build this repeating rhythmic sensation to increase your level play flow.

The next major takeaway comes from the game we played which is probably my all time favourite mobile game, Dancing Line.

This has gone through many iterations since its release in December 2016 but is still the best game I’ve seen when it comes to utilising dynamic camera changes.

Now, it has to be said, that it does show its age somewhat in terms of the “rage game” aspect and non-punitive nature, however the build quality is still superb.

Not all the camera switches work well and often it’s confusing as you double back onto yourself or seem just a bit too far away, but, if you want a relatively cheap way to elevate production value to your games and turn your “Auto-Walker” into something a bit more special we’d highly recommend experimenting with your cameras.

With some clever camera switches, especially timed with the “Rhythm Arcs” you can transform your game and, perhaps most importantly, make some super fresh CPI video’s and make you stand out from the crowd.

Gameplay examples

6ix9ine Runner - Gamejam co

6ix9ine Runner

Publisher: 
6ix9ine Runner - Gamejam co
Beat Racer - Zplay

Beat Racer

Publisher: 
Beat Racer - Zplay