Spring: A time for growth and new life.

Springtime is signified by blooming flowers, baby animals, budding trees, and other symbols of new life. One of the main symbols for springtime in Japan is the cherry blossom tree, locally known as Sakura. They only bloom for about one week every year, and people come from all around to witness the beauty these trees present. We wanted to use these initial feelings about spring and turn them on their head. The actions of the Tengu - our game’s antagonist - have caused these prized beauties to become dead and wilted. However, once the player retrieves the lantern, the trees will bloom and be restored to their natural beauty.

Boar Spirit concept

The spirit (Kami) we have chosen to represent this season is a bear-like creature that has just come out of hibernation. This fits the theme of the season and allows for some useful game mechanics to be presented. The bear’s power allows the player to push and pull certain objects to help with navigation or finding hidden areas. This power is meant to make the player feel strong and more powerful than the actual character would be. This kind of mechanic helps emphasize the idea that the spirits of the mountain are helping the player with their mission of saving the ecosystem and restoring the mountain to its former glory.

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Author: Joey Burss