COCOBOY

COCOBOY is a platformer set in an alternate-history 2005, in which a forgotten 1980s game has gained a following among an online community. The player sets up an old console and CRT television at home, then plays through the game’s levels. The game is split between the platforming itself and a bedroom space, where the player can browse online listings, read forum threads and arrange items.

In the platforming sections, the player uses Modcarts, cartridge devices made by community members. These add abilities such as slowing time, reversing gravity and equipping a weapon, and they can be combined to progress, find secrets and bypass level design. Coins collected in levels are spent on Modcarts and merchandise. New listings appear as the player advances and completes certain challenges. Each level also contains a Secret Seedling, and collecting it involves a meta puzzle linking the game to the bedroom. The game continues after the initial credits.

The in-game Cocoboy Forums have threads for each level and for special topics, covering tips, hints, rumours, theories and arguments, along with uploaded images such as photographs, maps and magazines. The bedroom also has a VHS player showing episodes of the hand-animated Coco Cartoon, produced by Autag Melocoy, including live-action Mr. Coco segments. The soundtrack combines chiptune by Cereza64 for the game with live-recorded acoustic guitar by Cameron Werner for the room. The game is not a horror game, though some moments may feel odd, tense or mildly spooky. It supports keyboard and mouse, controllers and Steam Deck. A prototype was made in one week for Vinesauce’s Shroomjam 2024 before being developed into a full game.