"The Design of Neon White - Developer Breakdown" is a video published by Noclip Crew, featuring a detailed discussion with Ben Esposito, the game director for Neon White. The video explores the development process, design choices, and influences behind the creation of this unique first-person speedrunning game.
Ben Esposito has a decade of experience in the gaming industry, having worked on well-regarded titles and indie games. He explains that Neon White was inspired by his love for video games and his desire to create something that celebrates the medium. The game initially started as a card-based first-person shooter prototype in 2017, but it evolved into a speedrunning game after removing randomness and adding discard abilities.
The development team focused on refining the game's movement mechanics before committing to level design. They wanted to ensure that the jump height, distance, and gravity felt good to players. The levels were designed with a clear path but also encouraged players to find shortcuts and optimize their runs. The team iterated on the levels over the years, refining them to create a balance between challenge and accessibility.
In terms of art style, readability and efficiency were the two main priorities. The team used a limited color palette to ensure clarity and consistency throughout the game. The game's setting, a decadent and indulgent version of Heaven, was inspired by the idea of a "Cheesecake Factory version of Heaven," with gaudy and over-the-top elements.
The game's music, composed by Machine girl, complements the overall aesthetic and contributes to the cohesive experience. The developers also incorporated a visual novel aspect to provide pacing and downtime between speedrunning levels. The narrative was designed to be fun and self-indulgent, focusing on archetypal character dynamics without subverting them.
Esposito cites influences such as Cowboy Bebop, Grasshopper Manufacturer games like Killer7, and his love for movement-based gameplay in shaping Neon White. The game embraces its unique combination of first-person platforming, anime aesthetic, and narrative elements, catering to players who appreciate the weird and wonderful aspects of video gaming.
Neon White is available on Steam and the Nintendo Switch eShop for those interested in experiencing this innovative game.
