COCOBOY is 2D puzzle platformer within a 3D retro gaming simulation.
The game's core mechanic are the "modcarts" which you can insert into the console to hack the platformer inside the TV. Slow down time, flip gravity, equip a gun, etc. The hacks are needed to progress through the game – since in the lore, the game was released in an unfinished state.
From there, the player can stand up from their desk, walk around, and decorate their room. You can browse a forum and buy merch on an in-game laptop, using coins collected in the platformer's levels. The scope may have gotten a little out of hand, but it serves the game well!
COCOBOY is my current solo-ish indie game project. It was originally developed in a one-week game jam, hosted by streamer Vinny Vinesauce. Development of the full game has taken longer than expected, but I ultimately just want to do the idea justice. I've never seen this type of game made before, so someone's gotta do it right!
Play Demo
My Role
Leading all things related to game design and development.
Created, animated, implemented all pixel art, 3D models and UI.
Illustrated promotional art.
Developed a custom R/G/B sprite palette recolor system, mimicking color limitations of NES games.
Designed and implemented all sound effects alongside music.
Collaborating with several art and music contributors to bring the game to life.
Using Trello to manage tasks and keep myself sane.
Articles
Credits
Cameron Werner: Co-creator (game jam partner), guitar music, on & off programmer for first year. Developed the foundations for the modcart system, save data, level loading, 2D camera system, and helped with various other tasks.
Mina Heffler: Chiptune Music
Alex Meints: VHS Cartoon Animator
... and several other contributors of smaller assets like posters, profile pictures, etc. (credited in-game)
Achievements & Stats
Presented and held playtests at the following events:
IGDA Ann Arbor (at most monthly meetings beginning in 2025)
Michigan Game Development Conference
EagleCon @ EMU
WonderFest @ EMU
Stats (as of 5/7/26)
Accumulated over 2,000 wishlists.
Managing Discord community with over 100 members.
Demo played by over 550 players.
Demo patched 10 times post-launch to optimize, polish and address feedback.
;)
