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2d-games

2D game development principles. Sprites, tilemaps, physics, camera.

Documentation

2D Game Development

Principles for 2D game systems.


1. Sprite Systems

Sprite Organization

ComponentPurpose
AtlasCombine textures, reduce draw calls
AnimationFrame sequences
PivotRotation/scale origin
LayeringZ-order control

Animation Principles

  • Frame rate: 8-24 FPS typical
  • Squash and stretch for impact
  • Anticipation before action
  • Follow-through after action

2. Tilemap Design

Tile Considerations

FactorRecommendation
Size16x16, 32x32, 64x64
Auto-tilingUse for terrain
CollisionSimplified shapes

Layers

LayerContent
BackgroundNon-interactive scenery
TerrainWalkable ground
PropsInteractive objects
ForegroundParallax overlay

3. 2D Physics

Collision Shapes

ShapeUse Case
BoxRectangular objects
CircleBalls, rounded
CapsuleCharacters
PolygonComplex shapes

Physics Considerations

  • Pixel-perfect vs physics-based
  • Fixed timestep for consistency
  • Layers for filtering

4. Camera Systems

Camera Types

TypeUse
FollowTrack player
Look-aheadAnticipate movement
Multi-targetTwo-player
Room-basedMetroidvania

Screen Shake

  • Short duration (50-200ms)
  • Diminishing intensity
  • Use sparingly

5. Genre Patterns

Platformer

  • Coyote time (leniency after edge)
  • Jump buffering
  • Variable jump height

Top-down

  • 8-directional or free movement
  • Aim-based or auto-aim
  • Consider rotation or not

6. Anti-Patterns

❌ Don't✅ Do
Separate texturesUse atlases
Complex collision shapesSimplified collision
Jittery cameraSmooth following
Pixel-perfect on physicsChoose one approach

Remember: 2D is about clarity. Every pixel should communicate.