'Way Home' is a captivating narrative-driven adventure prototype game that immerses players in a unique top-down puzzle-solving experience, which I worked as the environment designer, co-level designer, camera artist, narrative producer, and sound designer. We draw inspiration from various forms of media, including but not limited to collage art, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Joaquim Dos Santos, 2023), and the adventure video game Planet of Lana (Wishfully, 2023). 

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The journey in 'Way Home' begins in the first level with the desolate ambiance of a city ruin, set against the backdrop of a raging thunderstorm. This environment, aimed to provide a stark, immersive setting that mirrors the protagonist's inner turmoil. Players solve puzzles that reflect the character's quest for clarity amidst chaos. Consequently, take the player back to a few hours ago, entailling the beginning of the narrative through a non-linear plotline. Moving on to the second level, players are now on a space station. This setting is a significant departure from the ruins and presents a new challenge. Players must navigate through the technologically advanced yet confining space while under time pressure. This level not only intensifies the gameplay but also represents the protagonist's growing internal conflict and sense of urgency. The journey ends on the third level, a fantasy forest with colours of dusk. This environment is in contrast to the earlier levels and is full of mystery and wonder, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Players are encouraged to explore and solve puzzles intuitively, seamlessly integrated into the natural environment. This level represents not just a physical journey through a mystical forest but also a metaphorical exploration of the protagonist's innermost thoughts and desires.

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In "Way Home," each level transcends traditional gaming backdrops, evolving into a canvas where the protagonist's emotions are articulated through environmental aesthetics. This synergy of artistic expression and narrative storytelling immerses players in a realm where puzzles stimulate cognition and unveil a deeper story. The game becomes an introspective journey, blurring the lines between player and virtual avatar, showcasing the power of environmental design in creating a resonant, personal narrative experience.