Here is some random gameplay from the work-in-progress version of Nodes of Yesod on the Spectrum Next. Still many rough edges, but the core game is pretty much there. This isn't meant to be a polished video by any means, as you can tell, since I keep forgetting where the munchable walls are. :)
Things currently in the build but not evident from the video:
- Edge jumping. Back in 1985, it was kind of expected that platform games would require pixel-perfect jump timing. And 1985 me was OK with that. 2026 me just wants to play and explore without trying 10 times for that one jump and losing all my lives in the process. So, edge jumps. Hold down as you approach the edge of a platform, and Astro Charlie jumps from the last possible point on the platform.
- Jump control. In addition to edge jumping, which isn't always what you want, I've added jump control. It is not quite Mario-level fly-around-in-the-air jump control, but you can accelerate or decelerate while airborne to make the jump a little bit longer, or a little bit shorter.
In practice, these two additions make the game much more enjoyable.
You might spot a couple of other easter eggs in here too, which I'll say nothing about for now.
I'm thinking about what to do with this. Obviously, it is for the Spectrum Next, and I promised during KS1 to make a version of Nodes. I'll provide a digital copy to KS1 backers as and when it is done. Shhh, etc.
I wonder if people would be interested in a physical release?
