Why Archvale Feels Amazing
As indie game developers, we're always looking for ways to create a more immersive and enjoyable experience for our players. One key aspect of achieving this is crafting engaging gameplay that resonates with players. In this article, I am exploring the insights of Jonas, the creator of Archvale, as he shares his journey in elevating the game feel of his game.
29 April 2026 ยท 2 min read
Paying Attention to Details
According to Jonas, one of the most crucial aspects of crafting engaging gameplay is paying attention to small details. He emphasizes that this includes designing enemy knockback effects that create a sense of impact. To achieve this, Jonas experimented with different types of particles and velocities, carefully tuning each parameter to create a more realistic and satisfying experience for players. For instance, he found that by adjusting the particle size and speed, he could create a greater sense of force and momentum, making the player feel like their character is really being knocked back.
Unlocking the Power of GPU Set Fog
Jonas also shares his approach to using GameMaker's GPU set fog function to create mesmerizing visual effects. He demonstrates how carefully adjusting fog density, speed, and color can create an immersive audio experience that draws players in. For example, he shows how by setting a high fog density and slow speed, he can create a thick mist that obscures the player's view, making them feel like they're navigating through a dense forest. On the other hand, by adjusting the color of the fog to match the game's aesthetic, Jonas was able to create a visually striking effect that added to the game's atmosphere.
Learning from Others
As any developer will attest, there's no shortage of games that excel at game feel. Jonas emphasizes the importance of studying these games and analyzing what makes them enjoyable. By doing so, he was able to pick up valuable insights and techniques, such as using subtle visual cues to hint at upcoming attacks or environmental hazards. For instance, he studied how some games use flashing lights or pulsating sounds to signal an enemy's approach, and adapted this technique to create a similar effect in Archvale.
Experimentation is Key
Jonas stresses the importance of experimentation in elevating game feel. Through trial and error, he learned that what works for one game may not work for another. By continually testing different approaches and refining his techniques, Jonas was able to dial in a game feel that resonates with players. This process involved iterating on design decisions, testing player feedback, and making adjustments accordingly. For example, Jonas shares how he initially tried using a more traditional approach to enemy knockback effects, but ultimately decided to abandon it in favor of a more innovative solution.
Conclusion
By paying attention to small details, learning from others, experimenting with different approaches, and refining his techniques, Jonas was able to elevate the game feel of Archvale and create an experience that resonates with players. As developers, we can all learn from Jonas' journey and apply these insights to our own projects. By doing so, we'll be well on our way to creating engaging gameplay experiences that leave a lasting impression on our players.
Related resource
What makes a game feel good? A discussion between IDoZ, the creator of Archvale, and Jonas Tyroller about game juice and how to make your game feel incredible.
Related resources
What makes a game feel good? A discussion between IDoZ, the creator of Archvale, and Jonas Tyroller about game juice and how to make your game feel incredible.