SuperTime: A Browser-Based Time Manipulation Shooter

Introduction

SuperTime is a high-octane, minimalist shooter game inspired by the mechanics of the indie hit Superhot. Built entirely in HTML5 and JavaScript, this game brings the core concept of “Time Moves Only When You Move” directly to your browser.

In a world where reflexes are secondary to tactical planning, SuperTime challenges players to dodge bullets and eliminate enemies in a highly stylized, abstract environment. The stark contrast of red enemies against a white background ensures that gameplay remains the focus, creating a hypnotic blend of strategy and action.

How to Play

The controls are designed to be intuitive for any PC gamer:

Movement:** Use *W, A, S, D to move your character (the black triangle).
Aiming:** Move your *Mouse to look around.
Shooting:** *Click the Left Mouse Button to fire a projectile.

The Core Mechanic

The most important rule is the time mechanic. If you stand perfectly still, time slows down to a near-halt (roughly 3% speed). Enemies will freeze in their tracks, giving you time to assess the situation, plan your exit route, or line up the perfect shot. As soon as you press a movement key or fire your weapon, time accelerates to 100% speed.

Game Features

1. Dynamic Time Dilation

This is not just a slow-motion effect; it is a gameplay controller. The game engine calculates a `timeFactor` based on your input state. This allows for “Matrix-like” moments where you can watch an enemy approach you inch-by-inch, only to sidestep at the last second and counter-attack.

2. Minimalist Aesthetic

The game utilizes a clean, high-contrast art style. The background features a subtle moving grid that reacts to the speed of time, providing visual feedback on the game’s current speed state. Enemies are rendered in bright red (`#e74c3c`), making threats instantly identifiable, while the player and bullets are sharp black shapes.

3. Infinite Wave Survival

There are no levels or loading screens. Enemies spawn procedurally around the edges of the arena. As your score increases, maintaining control of the chaos becomes increasingly difficult. The goal is simple: achieve the highest score possible before you are overwhelmed.

4. Instant Restart Loop

Designed for the “just one more try” mentality, the game features instant restart capabilities. When you are hit, the game over screen allows you to jump immediately back into the action without delay.

Strategy Tips

* Stop to Think: Never panic. If you are surrounded, release all keys. The game will virtually pause, allowing you to find the gap in the enemy line.
* Lead Your Targets: While your bullets are fast, enemies are moving targets. When time is moving at full speed, you need to predict where the enemy will be.
* Don’t Corner Yourself: Since enemies spawn from all sides, staying in the center allows you more room to maneuver, but exposes you to more angles of attack. Sticking to edges can limit enemy approaches but reduces your escape routes.

Technical Overview

This game is a single-file HTML application using the HTML5 `` element. It requires no external libraries or assets. The physics engine uses a custom loop where entity position updates are multiplied by the variable `timeFactor`, ensuring that physics (velocity) is inextricably linked to player agency.