The Game
Meltdown is a casual game that players will find easy to play but challenging to master.
The unique score system and level design means that players should never find it too hard to complete a level but should always find it difficult to get a top score. Meltdown uses game features to portray the problems Gus encountered as he spiralled into alcoholism and anger.
The player must guide Gus through each level keeping his Buzz of excitement as high as possible. By controlling the game environment the player needs to clear the way for Gus to get to his next drink. Gus moves through each level on a set path while the player keeps him out of harm by getting rid of penguins and manipulating the environment in order to get the highest possible buzz. If Gus’ buzz reaches 0 he becomes too bored to carry on and the player must start the level again. The player can gain buzz by drinking beers, flicking penguins and flicking tourists while losing buzz over time or if Gus touches a geyser.
The Game is being faithful to the Meltdown Storyworld by using the same characters in similar situations. However, the game is set before Gus meets Daisy and so she is not present in the game. The Meltdown game takes the main premise of the Storyworld and translates them into game mechanics in several ways. Firstly, global warming destroying Gus’ home is shown through the ‘Dynamic Level’ mechanic. Secondly, Gus’ alcohol addiction is shown through the game’s score system. Thirdly, the comedy of the storyworld is brought to life using animation and audio. The order in which the mechanics are introduced into the game also mirrors how Gus’ world began to fall apart around him in the Storyworld.