Not A Vania

Not A Vania is a 2D action‑platformer developed using GDevelop. Inspired by classic Metroidvania-style games (and intentionally poking fun at them), the game blends fast-paced platforming, combat, and exploration with a self-aware tone.

Table of Contents

1. Overview

2. Gameplay

3. Controls

4. Mechanics

5. Levels & Environments

6. Enemies

7. Bosses

8. Player Character

9. Items & Power-Ups

10. Story & Lore

11. Development

12. Version History

13. Trivia

1. Overview

• Genre: 2D Platformer / Action

• Engine: GDevelop

• Platform(s): PC (others TBD)

• Perspective: Side-scrolling

• Tone: Humorous, self-aware

Despite the name, Not A Vania focuses on tight movement and level-based progression rather than a traditional open-ended Metroidvania structure.

2. Gameplay

The core gameplay revolves around:

• Precision platforming

• Enemy encounters

• Environmental hazards

• Learning level patterns through trial and error

Levels are designed to challenge player timing and positioning rather than grinding or RPG-style stat progression.

3. Controls

(Default – customizable depending on build)

• Move Left / Right: A / D or Arrow Keys

• Jump: Space

• Attack: Left Mouse / Z

• Dash / Ability: Shift / X

• Pause: Esc

4. Mechanics

• Jumping: Tight jump arcs with mid-air control

• Combat: Simple but responsive melee or projectile attacks

• Checkpoints: Placed throughout levels to reduce frustration

• Damage System: Player takes damage on contact or hazards

5. Levels & Environments

Levels are separated into distinct stages rather than a fully connected map.

Example environments:

• Ruined Castles

• Underground Caverns

• Trap-Filled Towers

• Glitchy / Meta Levels

Each environment introduces new mechanics or hazards.

6. Enemies

Enemies are designed around movement patterns and positioning.

Common enemy types:

• Walking enemies

• Flying enemies

• Projectile shooters

• Trap-based enemies

7. Bosses

Boss fights emphasize pattern recognition and movement.

Typical boss traits:

• Multiple attack phases

• Increasing difficulty as health lowers

• Unique mechanics not seen in regular levels

8. Player Character

The protagonist is a deliberately unnamed or loosely defined character, reinforcing the parody aspect of the game.

Abilities may include:

• Jump

• Attack

• Dash (unlockable or default)

• Special abilities (TBD)

9. Items & Power-Ups

• Health pickups

• Temporary buffs

• Ability unlocks

Some power-ups may be temporary, while others permanently alter gameplay.

10. Story & Lore

The story is minimal and intentionally vague.

General themes:

• Parody of classic gothic heroes

• Breaking the fourth wall

• Humor through expectation subversion

Lore is often delivered through environmental clues or joke dialogue rather than cutscenes.

11. Development

• Engine: GDevelop

• Developer: Waffle

• Development Style: Indie / Solo Dev Friendly

The game is built using event-based logic, making rapid iteration and experimentation a core part of development.

12. Version History

• v0.1: Core movement and first test level

• v0.2: Enemy AI and combat

• v0.3: First boss and polish pass

(Expand as development continues)

13. Trivia

• The title Not A Vania is a direct joke about Metroidvania naming conventions.

• Despite the name, players often still call it a Metroidvania.