SNAKES Dx (Alpha)

Classic Snake. New Dimensions.
Status: Alpha • Windows / macOS • Steam Deck Ready • Controller Enabled

Snakes Dx is a modern reimagining of the classic Snake formula, built around one core idea:
what happens when the space itself becomes part of the challenge?

This isn’t just about turning left or right.
It’s about understanding how the grid behaves — and how your decisions echo across it.

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What “Dx” Means

In Snakes Dx, Dx stands for Dimensions.

The grid is no longer just a flat plane.

• Movement can wrap around the edges of the board
• Paths can reconnect through the underside of the grid
• Familiar layouts behave differently depending on how you approach them

The rules stay simple. The space does not.

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Core Gameplay

Surviving in Snakes Dx isn't just about avoiding walls — it's about managing your Length as a resource.

• Navigate the grid as a continuous snake
• Energy Pickups increase your length and survivability
• Self-Collision ends the run immediately
• Critical Length: If your length drops below the critical threshold, the run ends

Obstacles & Damage

Not all walls are the same.

• Light Walls (Breakable): Break on impact, costing a small amount of length
• Heavy Walls (Unbreakable): Do not break. Hitting them forces a turn and causes a much larger length loss

Length is both protection and pressure. Every move commits you to a future position.

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Grid Shapes & Spatial Variety

Snakes Dx currently features two grid shapes, each changing how movement and planning feel.

Square Grid	Hex Grid
• Precise, 90-degree turns • Tight corridors • Requires careful exit planning	• Six-directional movement • Fluid navigation paths • Emphasizes spatial awareness

The same rules apply — but the grid changes how those rules behave.

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Wrap-Around & Underside Traversal

The grid does not end at its borders.

Moving off one edge of the board can bring you back from another — including transitions to the underside of the grid. Paths that seem safe can reappear in unexpected places.

Learning how the board folds back onto itself is a key part of mastering the game.

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Gameplay Modes

Currently Available

Objective Mode (Timed)
Complete the level objectives within the given time limit.

• Focuses on efficient path completion and risk management
• Requires mastering wrap-around traversal to beat the clock

Planned Gameplay Modes

Length-Limited Mode (No Timer)
A more deliberate mode focused on spatial control rather than speed.

• Energy pickups do not increase length
• Snake length is capped; failure comes purely from poor routing and self-collision

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Controls & Platforms

Snakes Dx is designed to feel good across desktop and handheld setups.

• Input: Keyboard and full controller support
• Controller Enabled: Designed with analog input in mind
• Steam Deck Ready: Tested and playable on the Deck
• Platforms: Native builds for Windows and macOS

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Development Status

Status: Alpha

The core gameplay systems are implemented and playable. Development is currently focused on depth, clarity, and feel.

Planned Before Launch:

• More Levels: Expanded level sets across both square and hex grids
• Improved Snake Movement: Refinement of turning, acceleration, and responsiveness
• FTUE (Onboarding): A lightweight flow to teach grid behavior and wrap-around rules
• Speed Control: Ability to manually speed up/slow down for strategic layering
• More Pickups: New types to introduce risk–reward decisions
• Soundtracks: Additional music to support pacing
• More Gameplay Modes

Features are added only if they meaningfully improve decision-making and game feel.

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Feedback

This alpha build is released to gather feedback.

If something feels unclear, unfair, or unexpectedly fun — I want to know.
Bug reports and design feedback are welcome in the comments.