save as - a platformer

Save As - A Platformer: Disease Representation Through Game Design

Save As translates the clinical stages of Alzheimer's disease into 50 distinct platforming levels. This is not a traditional platformer—it is one of Scratch's first titles to formally represent a neurological condition through interactive mechanics. Each phase intentionally degrades readability, color accuracy, and spatial logic to mirror cognitive decline.

Level Structure & Symbolic Progression

Levels 1-4: Mild fuzziness, repetitive design shows intact memory function
Levels 5-10: Gradual forgetting begins, increased effort to recognize spikes and obstacles
Levels 11-14: Color fade activates, objects identifiable but indescribable
Levels 15-20: Cognitive confusion, familiar figures unrecognized despite deep familiarity
Levels 21-27: Fragmented memory, failed recollection attempts
Levels 28-32: Sight without comprehension—seeing but not understanding
Levels 33-37: Barely alive, minimal cognition, automatic function only
Levels 38-50: Complete loss—the brain forgets how to sustain life

Controls & Accessibility

Desktop: Arrow keys to move
Mobile: Touch anywhere to navigate
Backgrounds progressively distort throughout the experience. Spikes gradually lose visual clarity. The soundtrack is provided by The Noise Experiment. Heavily inspired by Pahc.

⚠️ Content Advisory: This platformer may not be suitable for all ages. It depicts the effects and progression of Alzheimer's disease. Read the level descriptions and play at your own discretion.