From the Feedback Pairing:

The Speed of Light was a very powerful storytelling game wrapped up into an entertaining rhythm runner. The cutscenes and visualization of grief/love really transformed the way I perceive the theme of the jam. The gameplay incorporates the theme very well and the rhythm runner game loop was well polished. I enjoyed the twisting of the path because it added a level of difficulty to keeping track of positioning and collecting the hearts. I do wish there was a progression bar or UI element that tracked current out of total gates and hearts so that I know how much is left in the game.

Visuals were consistent and polished in addition to the game loop. The use of bright colors and high contrast fit the music and amplified the scenes. The models used and the shader/materials went together seamlessly and gave off a very unique look that worked in its advantage.

The audio and music of the game were well selected and fit in with the gameloop. The only critique I have for the audio is having some sort of audio slider/adjuster to make it easier to adjust the levels. Some sound effects were ear piercing at times and loud. 

The UI/UX is another example of the high polish this game had and I didn't have any issue with it at all. Subtitling for the narrative/cutscene sections were good. Indicators of the buttons and actionable moments were also well organized and executed.

Overall, this game’s storytelling was impactful and the gameplay that followed was a lot of fun and enjoyable. Awesome submission!

Wow this game is awesome.

I like the story, especially after seeing that it was dedicated to your dad. That was very heartfelt and I'm sure he'd be very proud of your game.

I like the music and the visuals a lot, just have a few things with the gameplay I'd like to point out: the level feels a little too bumpy, I felt like I was starting to get motion sick lol, it's also a bit long and I feel like it overstays its welcome a little. Also the game doesn't really give you enough incentive to shatter the gates other than "go do it", which for collecting coins feels pretty intuitive but you could try to make them a more engaging mechanic. I wasn't even sure what they were doing till halfway through the level.

But overall tho the game is very fun, I liked it a lot.

Condolences on the passing of your father. You created a beautiful tribute to him. I understand the goal was less to make a game than to craft an experience, and you succeeded remarkably.

A few minor notes:

• I question the choice of all-caps in annotations; it felt at odds with the intimate nature of the experience.
• I appreciated the “don’t worry about perfection” tip, as I did feel a slight lack of control. As I played, I was scoring points, but I wasn’t sure how much my skill or decision-making contributed.
• I missed options for controlling music and SFX—not a big deal. Of course, the game wouldn’t be what it is without sound.
• I liked being able to move back and forward.

Overall, masterfully done, with great taste and style. Thank you.

The gameplay is very intuitive and the music is catchy and beautiful. 

I liked how the intro story length wasn't too long. It doesn't overstay its welcome.