Update! + Enhanced Edition Info!

Hey Handshakers!

Since the end of the game jam we've been super happy with the reception of Handshakes, and we're excited to share some info on what's going on. We wanted to keep updating this version of the game a bit more and give new players and older players a reason to hang out a bit longer, challenge their brain a little bit more and shake some hands!

Thanks again to everyone who's played the game! A big thank you to those who took the time to comment and rate the game, we really appreciate it, and we're sure you're a big part of the reason why Handshakes has been occasionally appearing on the front page of itch!

Update

This devlog is paired with an update for the Jam/Demo/(this) version of the game, so what's in it?

• 14 new levels, bringing the total count up to 30
• A new level complete jingle
• Many old levels have been reworked
• Speedrun Timer (findable in the menu)
• Progress saving
• A few mechanical changes
• Analytics (to help us assess which levels work well and which don't)
• Bug fixes

You said something about a new game??

We're working hard on the next version of Handshakes, Handshakes - Hands on Edition, if you will, a more fleshed out, "full" experience.  Coming to Itch, aiming for a Steam release and who knows, maybe even Switch?! There's going to be a level editor, new mechanics, new thematic areas to progress through and all new music. We've got lots of ideas in the melting pot!

So, how's progress so far?

We've decided due to the "game jam-y" nature of the code and project structure, *cough* spaghetti *cough*, to rebuild the game from scratch. Handshakes itself isn't that big of a game, but we're taking our time this time to make sure the foundations are strong and that it's built with the future in mind.

Level Editor

First things first, the level editor, there's still a lot to do, but the plan is to build it up enough that it's usable for us in house, then through using it ourselves, we'll kink out the issues and make it a more pleasurable experience so that by the time it reaches your hands, it'll be a smooth experience. We're SUPER excited to see what people come up with!

Sounds

Trumpetguy, our composer, has been working hard making new musical tracks too! There will be a new music track bundled with each new theme!

Art

We want there to be more of a sense of progression as you play through the game. One way we want to do this is by themed areas. New mechanics will be introduced and you'll be treated to some new visuals.

We don't want to reveal too much yet, but here's a sneak peek of a theme idea we've got in mind ^_~

Let's do it!

Time to put our heads down and get back to work. We'll be releasing devlogs periodically as development progresses so keep your eyes out if you'd like to stay in the loop.

If you've got any ideas for what you'd like to see in the new Handshakes, let us know in the comments!