Supernova

🚀 Supernova: Vector Velocity and Reflex Evasion

Supernova serves as a modern homage to the vector-graphic arcade shooters of the 80s (like Tempest), updated with fluid 60FPS browser rendering. The game places the player in a starship hurtling through a geometric void. The objective is twofold: evade incoming asteroids/debris and destroy enemy entities. It is a pure test of reaction time and peripheral vision, stripping away narrative to focus entirely on the kinetic loop.

The game is characterized by its increasing velocity. As you survive longer, the speed of the tunnel increases, reducing the window of opportunity for identifying safe paths. This creates a high-intensity "Flow State" experience.

🧠 Cognitive & Visual Training

Surviving the Supernova requires specific visual processing:

• Optical Flow Processing: The brain must interpret the radial expansion of objects (moving from the center to the edge) to judge their distance and time-to-impact.
• Peripheral Threat Detection: Hazards spawn from the center. Players must focus on the center while using peripheral vision to track the edges of the screen where enemies might flank.
• Fine Motor Precision: At high speeds, a large movement causes a crash. The game demands micro-adjustments of the controls to weave through tight gaps.

🎮 Mechanics & Aesthetic

The engine utilizes vector geometry for clarity:

• Hitbox Visibility: The neon wireframe graphics are not just a style choice; they provide high contrast. The player can clearly see the edges of their ship and the obstacles, removing ambiguity from collisions.
• Procedural Generation: The tunnel layout is generated on the fly. No two runs are the same. This prevents pattern memorization and forces reliance on raw reflex.
• Shield/Health Systems: Depending on the version, you may have a shield buffer. Managing this resource—knowing when you can tank a hit to grab a power-up—is a key strategic element.

🏆 Survival Tactics

1. Stay Centered (Usually)

In tunnel shooters, the center often offers the best vantage point to react to any direction. Drifting too far to the edge limits your escape options to only one direction.

2. Prioritize Evasion over Kills

Your score increases by survival time. Shooting enemies helps, but crashing ends the run. If you have to choose between dodging a rock and shooting an enemy, always choose the dodge. Survival is the primary scoring metric.

🛡️ Technical Info

Lightweight and fast:

• Performance: Vector graphics are computationally cheap, allowing the game to run at high framerates even on older school computers.
• Audio: A thumping electronic soundtrack syncs with the speed of the game, aiding in rhythmic focus.

❓ FAQ