STU, the first AI was always planned to take place inside the digital world. Similar to the Grid in Tron, STU and Bit exist in a world called the Stack. The Stack is a global network connecting the computers and humans of the world. Using 2.5d graphics allows me to be creative in the artistic style while supplying the foundation to expand upon classic 2d Metroidvania gameplay.

Artistic Style: When looking at a circuit board, you see a lot of primitive shapes. Lines, squares, rectangles, cylinders, and right angles. I want the player to feel like they exist on that circuit board. Having these primitive shapes exist in a 3d space instead of 2d, makes them pop and feel more dynamic. Every shape inside the Stack is simple, which means less clutter and a cleaner athstetic.

Gameplay: I love classic Metroidvanias, and if you're reading this, you probably do too. But I want to build upon the classic formula, and creating a 2.5d world allows me to play with foreground, background, and depth. Shifting environments and enemies back and forth gives an extra element of magic to the digital world. It's a subtle reminder that this is not the world of humans. It also allows for interesting level design and puzzle elements; now you get to explore a classic style Metroidvania in all dimensions.