Creating video games is an intricate process that demands extensive hours, exceptional technical and artistic skills, as well as cross-disciplinary collaboration. Despite the potential for catastrophic errors, the release of any game is a marvel in itself. Fulcrum Defender, crafted by Jay Ma, co-founder of Subset Games, exemplifies this miracle. It marks the studio's first release since the critically acclaimed Into the Breach in 2018. Following a life-altering bout with Covid-19, which significantly impacted her quality of life, Ma embarked on creating this exclusive Playdate game. Her journey involved overcoming personal health challenges while innovating within the gaming world.

The Birth of Fulcrum Defender Amidst Challenges

Jay Ma’s creative journey began after a trip to Vancouver in August 2023. There, she met Subset co-founder Matt Davis and other team members. During this time, the team was engaged in multiple projects, one of which faced significant hurdles. However, the visit inspired breakthroughs, though it was soon overshadowed by Ma catching Covid-19. This infection led to long-term symptoms, drastically altering her daily life and work capabilities.

Initially, Ma's experience with the coronavirus seemed similar to previous encounters. Returning to Kyoto, Japan, she quarantined and eventually recovered from acute symptoms but never fully regained her former strength. Realizing she had developed long-term effects from the virus, Ma struggled with mobility issues and mental fatigue. For months, she couldn't engage in any work-related activities, fearing she might never create games again. Yet, Fulcrum Defender became a beacon of hope, proving to herself that she could still pursue her passion despite these challenges.

Fulcrum Defender: A Game Beyond Personal Struggles

Despite her struggles, Fulcrum Defender doesn’t reflect Jay Ma’s personal battles with chronic health or memory loss. Instead, it focuses on engaging gameplay mechanics. With assistance from Subset’s Mauro López and composer Aaron Cherof, the game showcases a balance between relaxation and intense chaos, reminiscent of Subset’s previous works. This project has been pivotal in helping Ma regain confidence in her abilities, even if her current capacity is reduced compared to before her illness.

Ma acknowledges the limitations imposed by her condition, noting how much she once took for granted in managing complex game dependencies. Without a conclusive diagnosis in Japan, she relies on frequent dementia tests to monitor her cognitive state. Embracing the possibility that her condition may not improve, Ma operates in the present moment, likening her situation to monastic training. Regarding Subset’s future, she emphasizes maintaining flexibility and not committing to projects unless certain of their completion. While Davis remains productive, adapting his schedule due to family commitments, both recognize the need for additional help if they are to tackle larger-scale games in the future. Fulcrum Defender, alongside eleven others, will debut as part of Playdate’s second season starting May 29, offering players a unique experience without revealing the challenging context of its creation.