Are you a programmer looking for a unique game concept to build? I have the design, but I need you to bring it to life.
Hi everyone, I'm Poleaxe. I am a creator passionate about game design mechanics and lore.
I have designed and authored a complete game proposal—STRAIN, a survival game that combines "Reverse Horror" with a "Pacifist's Burden."
This project is released under CC BY 4.0. I am "open sourcing" this concept because I want to see it come to life.
📂 What is inside this GDD?
This is not just a rough idea. I have completed a detailed Game Design Document (GDD) ready for prototyping, which includes:
- Unique Mechanics: A dynamic "Strain Gauge" system (replacing the traditional HP bar) that balances power vs. sanity.
- Tactical AI Logic: Detailed behavior trees and state machines transforming enemies from passive guards into tactical special forces.
- The "Double Death" Dilemma: You possess the power to destroy the world, but to prove your humanity, you must not kill.
- Complete World Building: Tragic backstories, unique abilities for 3 playable characters, and boss fight puzzle mechanics.
🚀 Why am I sharing this?
I currently lack the time and resources to develop the programming and art assets independently. However, I believe this mechanic has huge potential.
This project is perfect for you if you are:
- A Beginner in Godot/Unity/Unreal Engine looking for a solid practice project.
- A Developer with coding skills but struggling to find a unique game script.
- A Team looking to challenge themselves with "non-lethal combat" systems.
🤝 How to Use & Collaborate
You are free to use these concepts to develop a game. Simply credit the original author (Original Concept: Poleaxe) in your project.
If you have any questions about the mechanics, lore, or logic during development, please feel free to reach out! I would be happy to act as a consultant to help you optimize the game logic or solve design problems.
🔗 Portfolio / Project Links
- GDD Preview (PDF): https://poleaxe0224.itch.io/strain-gdd
- GitHub Repository (Markdown Source): https://github.com/poleaxe0224/STRAIN-Game-Design-Document
Let’s bring this tragic hero to life, together.


