Badeline

Lore & Background

Badeline was conceived by creator Maddy Thorson as a direct representation of Madeline's depression and anxiety. Thorson noted that the premise of taking care of one's self, exemplified by Madeline's interaction with Mr. Oshiro where she sacrifices self-care for others, informed this character design. The story arc was framed around Thorson understanding how to manage their own anxiety: Madeline initially tries to fight Badeline, but over time learns to function with her presence. Thorson explicitly wanted players aware that Madeline was still grappling with internal conflict at the end of the story, emphasizing that acceptance is a process. This evolution reflects Thorson's realization that they did not know how to frame the scene until they better managed their own anxiety.

In Their Own Story

As Madeline climbs Mount Celeste, she encounters Badeline, who attempts to deter her progress through various obstacles. During an anxiety attack on a broken gondola with Theo, Madeline is told to imagine a feather floating up and down. Later, when Badeline tries to discourage her further using this method, Badeline sends her down the mountain. The narrative culminates in a turning point where Madeline makes peace with Badeline. Instead of destroying this shadow version of herself, they make up and work together to reach the summit. After reaching the top, they return to the base, and Madeline uses her collectable strawberries to make a pie for all the other characters, signifying their integrated relationship.

Reader's Guide

Badeline acts as the central antagonist who mimics Madeline's movements to sabotage her climb, representing the voice of self-doubt. She forces emotional confrontations alongside physical platforming challenges. The guide to overcoming Badeline is not victory through combat but integration through acceptance. Players must navigate levels where Badeline interferes, eventually leading to the realization that she cannot be defeated in a traditional sense. The defining moment occurs when Madeline stops fighting and accepts this part of herself. This shift transforms Badeline from a paralyzing force into a companion, allowing them to ascend together. The game emphasizes that this is an ongoing process where the character continues to grapple with internal conflict even after the main story concludes.

Did You Know?

• Badeline is referred to as "Part of Me" within the game.
• Creator Maddy Thorson based Badeline on their own experiences with depression and anxiety.
• The story was designed so Madeline learns to function with her anxiety rather than fighting it.
• After making up, Madeline and Badeline work together to reach the summit of Mount Celeste.
• Madeline makes a pie using collectable strawberries for other characters after returning from the mountain.