Inspired by the idea of exploration of human consciousness.
How Old is James is a game about humanity. Assemble memories through a variety of brain-tickling puzzles and discover a hidden life of the main character, to ultimately answer — what makes us human. Levels are situated one inside another infinitely many times. Characters are abstract representations of human consciousness, utilised by the deep narrative. The story is told through a futuristic operating system UI.
Why do we care?
In a busy day-to-day life people tend to forget the true value and meaning of their existence — its expiration date. We want to ask a profound question — what does it even mean to be human? Through a set of complex puzzles and intricate storyline, we want to take the player to the roots of their humanity and ask what is fundamentally required to constitute their existence. Is a set of memories and behaviours enough or does it require a body of flesh and meat, and if so — to what extent?
Key game features
Infinity space effect
Levels are situated inside one another infinitely many times. When transitioning from one level to another, the camera can access levels within levels within levels… After all, to move forward you have to look inward.
Multi-dimensional side scrolling
Character's movement is constrained to a 2D area. Once they get to a corner, their frame of reference rotates towards the next side. Combining simple movement mechanics with depth of field and rotations creates a stunning sense of space.
Character mechanics
Three characters. Each with its own unique movement mechanics and capabilities. Play with any one of them, or combine their abilities to progress. Built with advanced custom physics to make it extra smooth and extra fun.
Puzzles utilizing space
Each level consists of several segments, stacked on top of each other. Under specific circumstances, the player has the ability to separate these segments, and rotate them in order to create a new pathway configuration.
UI as a futuristic operating system
Because that’s how we operate. Main menu of the game is an in-game desktop operating system, set in year 2095. Deeply integrated with the story, it allows you explore the narrative in an interesting and unusual way.
Co-op all the way
Game is designed to be played as local co-op or single player, from start to finish. Play how you like, when you like, with whom you like. Designed specifically for Nintendo Switch, the game is a joy to play when controlled with Joy-Cons.
Designed primarily for Nintendo Switch with emphasis on couch co-op gameplay.
Platforms
Interested?
Has this project we are working on piqued your interest? As we are currently looking for publishers and investments, we will happily share a playable build and pitch deck. If you are serious about this, click the button below to get in touch with us 👇