Primal Runner

Created for Velocicode 2026, this game was inspired by the notion of parkouring through Göbekli Tepe, the enigmatic Neolithic archaeological site in Turkey that predated agriculture and showcased the first examples of monumental architecture in known human history. 

In the context of the game, you are a prehistoric member of the Neolithic tribe competing in a ritual game. The object of the game is to pick up mysterious fossils in the least amount of time. Picking up one main fossil from each of the three areas lets you complete the race, but others scattered around the site give you great power. Use the tools at your disposal to get the best time!  

Controls:

• Movement: WASD
• Jump: Space
• Air Dash: Q (only available once a certain fossil is acquired)
• Crouch: LCtrl (gotta have crouch :P)

Credits:

• James Nicholson: Game Design, Level Design, Gameplay Programming
• Jane Valentine: Art Director, 3D Environment Modeling, Prop Artist
• Joseph Moreno: UI Programming, Programming Support, Guru
• Nathan Nguyen: 3D Environment Modeling, Playtesting, Prop Artist
• Creak Games (YouTube Channel): basis for player movement script
• Eitan Epstein Music (YouTube Channel): Background Music (Track: HIGH ADRENALINE) 

AI Disclosure:  Claude Sonnet 5 was used to troubleshoot and build certain mechanics, such as air dash and mantling. No AI agents were involved, nor was it integrated into the code base. Neither of our artists used any AI to create their art, working diligently to achieve their retro PS1 aesthetic.  No AI was used in the Level Design either, just lots of coffee and working into the night.