Slalom Hero

🎿 Slalom Hero: Optimization of the Racing Line

Slalom Hero deconstructs the winter sport of Alpine Skiing into a game of Trajectory Optimization. Visually presented in classic pixel art, the gameplay is a serious examination of the "Racing Line." The objective is to pass through gates (Red and Blue flags) while maintaining maximum velocity. The challenge lies in the physics of turning: turning creates friction, which scrubs off speed. Therefore, the perfect run involves the minimal amount of turning necessary to clear the gate.

📐 Gate Mechanics and Penalties

The scoring system punishes deviation.

• The Optimal Path: Passing close to the inner pole of the gate (tight line) minimizes distance traveled. However, this increases the risk of collision (crashing).
• The Safety Line: Taking a wide turn ensures you clear the gate but increases the total distance and friction time, resulting in a slower finish.
• Missed Gates: Missing a gate incurs a massive time penalty, effectively ruining the run. This binary pass/fail mechanic forces players to prioritize accuracy over raw speed.

🌨️ Dynamic Weather and Surface

The game introduces variability through weather conditions.

• Powder vs. Ice: Different tracks have different friction coefficients. Ice tracks are faster but offer less grip for turning, leading to "drifting." Powder tracks are slower but allow for sharp, precise carving.
• Visibility: Fog or snowstorms reduce the "Draw Distance," limiting the player's ability to plan ahead. This forces a reactive playstyle.

🏆 Character Stats

Choosing a hero matters. Characters have stats for Speed, Turn, and Boost. A high-turn character is better for technical courses with tight gates. A high-speed character dominates on linear courses with long straights.

❓ FAQ