Maskrave

a rhythm game built around the theme of masks, developed using Unity, drawing inspiration from the traditional Chinese art of Sichuan Opera face-changing, or Bian Lian (变脸).Category: 2D, Single Player

Genre: Rhythm

Date: 2026.1

My Role: Game Designer, 2D artist, Beatmap designer

Game Summary

Players must react with speed and precision as notes travel toward the judgment line, pressing or holding the corresponding keys in time with the music to maintain their combo and score. The performance centers on a stylized Pixiu (貔貅), a mythical creature in Chinese folklore associated with protection and prosperity. Set against a festive New Year atmosphere, the characters’ shifting masks symbolize transformation, luck, and renewal, blending cultural symbolism with high-energy rhythm gameplay.

Game Outline

• Side-scrolling rhythm adventure game

• Players perform an original track using a combination of keyboard inputs (ASDF) or the four buttons on the physical guitar.

• Notes will appear in sync with the beat, requiring players to tap and hold in rhythm. 

• Earn points based on accuracy and timing, unlocking new storylines and customizations. 

USP/Game Pillars

• Cultural Integration: The core mechanic is inspired by the mask-changing tradition of Sichuan Opera, aligning with 2026 GGJ’s theme on “Mask” while introducing players to a recognized element of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).

• Original Music Design: The original EDM soundtrack blends Chinese opera vocals and traditional Chinese percussion with dubstep-inspired electronic composition. The rhythm structure is tightly synchronized with gameplay feedback to emphasize impact, immersion, and performance intensity.

• Original Art Design: All visual assets are original, hand-illustrated works influenced by Chinese opera aesthetics, created using Procreate. The art direction emphasizes bold masks, traditional Chinese color palettes, and stage-inspired presentation to reinforce the cultural and performative theme.