CityCat: Prowl – still one of the masterpieces of modern development

The upcoming isometric adventure game for Commodore 64, spearheaded by the renowned artist and developer Robert Ramsay.

Please note, we are developing the PC Windows version first, all graphics will be C64 ready for porting.

Unlike many C64 titles that rely on repeating character tiles, CityCat utilizes high-detail bitmap backgrounds. This allows for organic, non-repetitive scenery that captures the “twisted world” aesthetic Ramsay envisions. The protagonist cat features fluid 8-directional movement, a necessity for navigating the complex verticality of the city’s rooftops and alleys.

Development has shifted into a high-gear refinement phase. Based on the most recent builds and developer logs, several key areas have seen major progress:

• The Soundtrack: The game now features hauntingly atmospheric tracks by MAGNAR, with additional contributions from Cyborg Jeff. The music is designed to evoke a sense of mystery and melancholy, perfectly matching the “lost amnesiac” narrative.
• World Expansion: Recent work has moved beyond the initial urban rooftops. The development team is currently finalizing the Tunnels (sewers), Coastal levels, and the Subway.
• Enhanced Interactivity: The latest versions have introduced physics for breakable objects (such as urns and crates) and interactive NPCs that provide cryptic clues, deepening the RPG/Adventure hybrid elements.
• Hybrid Development Workflow: Ramsay utilizes a modern workflow where the game is prototyped in GameMaker on PC to test logic and layout, while every graphical asset is meticulously crafted within the strict hardware constraints of the C64 (using tools like McDraw and Backdrop Designer).

In CityCat, you play as a feline protagonist waking up in a “liminal” city – a place where ancient Japanese architecture clashes with futuristic, decaying urban sprawl.

The project is currently supported via itch.io under the Polytricity banner, where supporters can access “behind-the-scenes” sprite sheets, design documents, and the latest playable work-in-progress builds.