Darkless

Get ready for an adventure as Nameless, a clever spirit trapped in a lamp by a curse. Regain your form by exploring the Silent Mansion. Uncover secrets in this platform and puzzle game.

Role

Gameplay programmer

ENGINE

Unity

Year

2023

STATUS

Released

Platform

PC (WINDOWS)

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overview

overview

A 2D puzzle platformer where players use light as the core mechanic to navigate, solve puzzles and overcome platforming challenges.
The game features four levels, each introducing a unique interaction with light to create varied gameplay experiences.

core gameplay

core gameplay

Players use light to interact with the environment and progress through platforming and puzzle challenges.
Each level introduces a new way light behaves, requiring players to adapt and understand different mechanics.

  • In Level 1, light reveals hidden elements within the fog

  • In Level 2, light is used to capture photos and interact with the environment

  • In Level 3, light enables photosynthesis, activating plants and opening new paths

  • In Level 4, light beams can be redirected using mirrors to solve puzzles

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SYSTEMS and MECHANICS

SYSTEMS and MECHANICS

The game is built around a light-based system that drives all interactions and puzzle mechanics.

  • Light Interaction System
    Core system that affects the environment in different ways depending on the level

  • Level Based Mechanics
    Each level introduces a unique rule set tied to light behavior

  • Environmental Interaction
    Objects react dynamically to light (fog, plants, mirrors, etc.)

  • Player Mechanics

    • Use light to reveal or activate elements

    • Navigate platforming sections with timing and precision

    • Solve puzzles by understanding light behavior

    • Adapt to new mechanics in each level

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CHALLENGES

CHALLENGES

One of the main challenges was handling shaders and performance optimization while working with dynamic light based mechanics.

  • Shader complexity
    Creating visual effects for light required custom shaders that were difficult to balance visually and technically

  • Performance optimization
    Realtime light interactions and multiple active elements caused performance issues if not properly optimized

  • Consistency between levels
    Designing different mechanics per level while keeping a cohesive gameplay experience

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