# How we turned a creative’s tribute into a rhythm RPG with heart

**URL:** <https://forums.unrealengine.com/t/how-we-turned-a-creative-s-tribute-into-a-rhythm-rpg-with-heart/2550156>\
**Category:** Showcase\
**Tags:** development, developer, unreal-engine, staff-pick-ind, pixel, custom, epic-for-indies\
**Created:** [June 10, 2025, 4:01pm UTC](https://forums.unrealengine.com/t/how-we-turned-a-creative-s-tribute-into-a-rhythm-rpg-with-heart/2550156 "2025-06-10T16:01:05Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Mythcarver\_Games](https://d1ap1mz92jnks1.cloudfront.net/user_avatar/forums.unrealengine.com/mythcarver_games/32/1066025_2.png) [@Mythcarver\_Games](https://forums.unrealengine.com/u/Mythcarver_Games)\
**Post date:** [June 10, 2025, 4:01pm UTC](https://forums.unrealengine.com/t/how-we-turned-a-creative-s-tribute-into-a-rhythm-rpg-with-heart/2550156/1 "2025-06-10T16:01:05Z")

</div>

[![](https://d3kjluh73b9h9o.cloudfront.net/original/4X/e/0/4/e0468581432cfc919be4b5875143846e19c55a80.jpeg "A Frog's Tale - Kickstarter Trailer") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKTSe1hpkU0)

When AJ Norman presented us “_ **A Frog’s Tale** _” idea, it felt like something rare. A game that knows what it wants you to feel. We LOVED it!

The game is a tribute to AJ’s dad. This was intentionally woven into everything: the heartwarming story, hand-animated pixel art, the unique rhythm combat system, puzzles, and platforming.

**//When the creator’s vision meets the right team**

AJ is a creative force. He knew he couldn’t do it alone, and an average dev team could NOT deliver on his vision. That’s when he found Mythcarver.

From our first call, it clicked. We bounced ideas and dove deep into what made the game _feel_ right. It felt like one team from the start. So much so, Mythcarver was instrumental in the game’s successful Kickstarter campaign!

**//Tech that brings the magic**

Using our proprietary Unity toolkit, we built a hybrid 2D/3D pipeline that’s quick to iterate on. It lets you create 3D levels and layer on pixel art, unlocking elevation and depth changes for that HD-2D-ish feel. We built a custom rhythm battle system, syncing combat animations and inputs to music, supporting multi-button inputs, any tempo, dynamic audio layers + FX that harmonize with the beat.

An auteur’s vision made manifest. And Mythcarver was the team that made it real.

**//The result**

The demo is now in the backers’ hands, and the community is excited for what’s next!

In AJ’s words:

> “Mythcarver Games understands the game I want to make and will stop at nothing to make it happen. Their approach is unique but incredibly thorough and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with and learn from them. The video games industry can be intimidating to a newcomer but Mythcarver Games has the experience and connections to turn any project into something great.”

This is the kind of work we love doing! 🤟

If you’re a creative with a big vision, and are looking for a team that can help deliver it, do as AJ and come say hi! We don’t bite =]

💬 Discord: samgomes ||| [bizdev@mythcarvergames.com](mailto:bizdev@mythcarvergames.com)
