Cat Gem Rise
A rising merge-puzzle prototype with a compact 5×6 board, cat-themed presentation, boosters, and a 30-level progression concept.
Cat Gem Rise is a compact puzzle-game exploration with a clear mechanical identity: merge strategically before the board rises. It is included as an honest prototype with test evidence, while polished runtime capture remains the next portfolio asset to create.
What needed solving
A merge puzzle needs immediate readability but also escalating pressure; without a clear board rhythm it becomes either repetitive or frustrating.
What I built
I explored a small board with rising-row mechanics, gem-merging decisions, and progression features that create short, legible sessions.
Why it matters
The available Gradle test task completes locally. The project is shown as a prototype because it still needs polished runtime capture and playtest evidence.
How I approached it
I designed around one clear decision loop: merge gems before the board rises, then use boosts and level goals to control pressure. The visual direction is intentionally playful, but the structure comes from board state, difficulty rhythm, and player feedback.
Tools & Workflow
Developed as a Kotlin and LibGDX prototype, with Gradle-based validation. The portfolio uses a custom visual illustration until a polished runtime capture is prepared.
How this work wasvalidated.
- Core puzzle mechanics
- Progression concept
- Game prototype structure
From intention toimplementation.
Define the pressure loop
Combined merging with rising rows so every move affects the next board state.
Build a readable theme
Used cats and gems to make the puzzle identity distinct without obscuring the mechanics.
Architecture at a Glance
Kotlin and LibGDX prototype structure.
Levels, boosters, and board-state rules.
What this case study does not claim
- Runtime visual capture has not yet been produced for this portfolio.