Beyond the game build: checking itch.io submission copy and image files

Exporting a Web build does not finalize a game's submission page on itch.io. Developers may still need to add instructions, decide on screenshot order, or declare which devices have been tested. Inspecting game code alone does not uncover all these issues. Treating the submission as a package containing both the game and accompanying explanations and images is crucial.

Using VOLT NOMAD's submission materials, this article examines the existing submission materials and their content. The investigation took place on September 11, 2026, using the fixed game-jam-lab commit f074703. It did not involve submitting a new build or altering publication settings.

The repository's ITCH_SUBMISSION.md file lists fields, descriptions, controls, AI-use disclosure, and screenshot order. Instead of treating it as mere text to paste into a form, map its contents to the decisions a first-time visitor will make. What kind of game is this? Short description and first image: Fight monstrous machines and spend resources on upgrades.

Can I start on my setup? Project type, display, and compatibility are specified as HTML, 1280 × 720, fullscreen. The controls include mouse and touch selection, attacks, and confirmation/actions. Language and music controls are also described. Page-setting instructions advise leaving Mobile friendly unchecked until a real-phone pass is complete.

Touch instructions are not proof that the entire game works on a phone. The inspection focused on checking the document and files without retesting the controls on each device. The listed screenshots are the title screen, combat, gear trees, ARCH SINGULARITY, the archive, and PRIME CURRENT. The final image is optional and reveals later content.

Upon inspection, the files were found to be JPEGs instead of the expected PNGs, despite their names suggesting otherwise. This mismatch does not necessarily indicate an upload failure but highlights the need to correct it before handing over the files for processing or validation.