GameDev Class: Super Jump

This README is also available in: Español (README.es.md)

Designing the “classic jump” in a 2D platformer

Overview

In this class we focus on how to design and implement the jump in a classic old-school 2D platformer. We’ll start by analyzing what makes this jump unique and explain the theory behind it.
Then we’ll try the included POC, showing how the implemented jump achieves a classic feel. We’ll tweak parameters and see how small adjustments change the gameplay and player experience.
Finally, we’ll take a code tour: states, quirks, challenges, wins, and a reflection on viability in Unity.

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Class goals

• Understand why the classic jump isn’t about realism, but about control and expressiveness.
• Master key concepts: Coyote Time, Jump Buffer, variable height, asymmetric gravity, and jump cut.
• Learn to parameterize and fine-tune the jump to match the desired feel.
• Review a practical Unity implementation (scripts and states).

What you’ll find in this repo

• A proof of concept with a jump state machine (Ground → Ascend → Apex → Fall).
• Editable parameters to experiment with feel.
• A custom collision system because we don’t use Unity’s physics engine for movement.
• GameAnalysis/: materials and utilities for frame-by-frame and curve analysis (see the folder for details).

GameAnalysis/ contains info and scripts for frame/data analysis of the jump.

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Requirements

• Unity 6000.2.6f2 or higher.
• New Input System enabled (Project Settings → Player → Active Input Handling → Input System Package).

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▶️ Quick start

1. Clone the repo and open it in Unity.
2. Enable the Input System if needed.
3. Open Scenes/Sandbox.unity.
4. On the Player object, check these components:
   • Move (choose instant or accelerated movement).
   • Jump (load the BaseProfile in /Assets/ScriptableObjects).
5. Press Play and try:
   • Holding/releasing the jump button at different times.
   • Edge jumps (Coyote Time).
   • Pressing jump just before landing (Buffer).
   • Tweaking ascent/descent gravity and terminal velocity.

Turn on Gizmos to see on-scene metrics and visual guides.

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📜 License

MIT — see LICENSE in the repo.