Another key element that’s present in this early build is Spelunky’s “theme,” which, in game design terms, refers to the setting, story, and imagery that we wrap around the abstract rules and systems. The name Spelunky is a reference to caving, also known as “spelunking.” Originally, it wasn’t intended to be the game’s final name—I just needed a more interesting filename than “explorer” for a preview screenshot I posted online. It was another indie developer, Phil Fish, who made me consider it again when he replied, “Spelunky, huh? I like it.” Looking back, it’s uncertain whether he meant that
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