Hey everyone!

So I finally did it – node playground is live in the App Store!

What the heck is this thing anyway?

This app is something I have been thinking about for a while but never tried to actually make. I wanted an app where I could poke around, create patterns, and just zone out for a bit when my brain needed a break.

node playground is basically a physics sandbox where you can create these glowing nodes that connect to each other and respond to your touch. Tap the screen to create a node, hold and drag to push them around, or add special nodes like attractors and repellers that change how everything moves.

The cool stuff you can do

I ended up adding a bunch of features as I went:

• Different node types (the blackhole is my personal favorite)
• Musical feedback when nodes interact (surprisingly addictive)
• Motion controls so you can tilt your phone to move everything around
• A bunch of settings to tweak the experience just how you want it

Oh, and you can double-tap to create these explosion effects that send shockwaves through the whole system. I definitely spent too much time just doing that over and over.

My accidental fidget toy

Here’s a little confession – I originally made this for myself. I have a hard time focusing sometimes, and I found that having something to do with my hands actually helps me pay attention during meetings or when listening to podcasts.

node playground turned into my go-to digital fidget. It’s subtle enough that I can use it while on a call without getting completely distracted, but engaging enough to keep my hands busy so my brain can focus.

Want to try it?

You can grab node playground on the App Store now. It’s a one-time purchase (no subscription nonsense) because I hate that stuff too.

Download node playground on the App Store →

If you do check it out, I’d love to hear what you think! Drop a review, send me an email, or hit me up here.

Thanks for reading, and happy node-ing! (Is that a word? It is now.)