Nano Looper
Credits for Nano Looper:
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Dane Kubicka
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Blake Cejner
01
The map
Nano Looper—where do I even begin? You’re probably here for the level design, so let’s start there. The map is built around an arcade-style experience that blends elements of CS:GO and Rocket League. My goal was to keep the gameplay as simple as possible while still packing in plenty of fun. The objective is straightforward: hit the ball with your body and score. That’s it. You can eliminate other players, but that mechanic mainly serves as a deterrent rather than a core focus.
02
Character
The character and weapon were both designed by me in Blender and animated using Mixamo. It’s not my best work—it was made about seven years ago—but it served its purpose well. The character features a jetpack that emits flames when jumping, adding a fun bit of flair to the movement.
The movement system itself is intentionally simple: no sprinting, no crouching—just basic WASD movement and jumping. My goal was to keep the gameplay as straightforward and accessible as possible. Not every game needs complex mechanics like vaulting or ledge grabbing. If I were to revisit it now, the only addition I’d probably make is a slide mechanic.
03
The game
The goal is simple: score a goal. Shooting other players isn’t the main focus—it’s meant to be a tactical deterrent. The idea is to create openings and disrupt your opponent’s momentum. For example, if an enemy player is about to score and you’re too far away to block the shot, landing a few hits can take them out, forcing a respawn and giving you a chance to regain control of the ball.
04
Cover art
This step was a huge milestone for me. It wasn’t made with AI—this was before most AI tools were even capable of producing something like it. I hired a friend to create the artwork, which I later used for our playtest flyers. I still have that piece framed on my wall as a reminder of how far I’ve come.
05
Play testing events
Dane and I were fortunate to showcase our game at several events—even at SXSW, which was a huge honor. Hundreds of people played it, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. It was an incredible learning experience for both of us. Dane would sometimes push a new build just minutes before the event started, and I’d be downloading and testing it right up until showtime. It was chaotic, exciting, and absolutely unforgettable.
06
Lore
You play as Nano—a rising Looper on the path to becoming a professional. The maps are set in massive arenas surrounded by cheering crowds and towering grandstands, creating an electric, competitive atmosphere.
One exciting feature we’re developing is the ability to spectate multiplayer matches by sitting in the stands alongside other real players. It’s designed as a fun way to relax between matches—showing off new emotes, gear, or cosmetics you’ve earned along the way while watching others compete.
There’s much more to come, with new creative characters and features on the horizon. The game is still in slow development, but it remains my personal passion project—something I continue to build and refine on the side.
