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+# Jimmy Overdrive
+**Jimmy Overdrive** is fast-paced platformer inspired by the popular Flash game *Johnny Upgrade*. Start underpowered, collect coins, buy upgrades, and push your limits to reach the final exit.
+
+## How to Play
+- Use **A** and **D** to move; space to jump.
+- Press **W** to open doors.
+- Collect coins to use on upgrades.
+- Use the upgrades menu to improve your character's stats like speed, jump height, time limit, and more.
+- Each attempt lets you go further.
+- Reach the exit to win!
+
+## Try it out (Prebuilt JAR)
+### 1. Install [Java 17](https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase/jdk17-archive-downloads.html) or later
+### 2. Go to the GitHub repo's [Releases](https://github.com/drew18moore/platformer-java/releases) tab
+### 3. Download the latest JAR file (e.g. 'platformer-java-1.0.jar')
+Note: The JAR file's name may vary. There may be two JAR files. Use the one **not** labeled `original-` 
+### 4. Run the game (replace filename with actual filename if it differs):
+```bash
+java -jar platformer-java-1.0.jar
+```
+
+## Build and run locally
+### 1. Install [Java JDK 17](https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase/jdk17-archive-downloads.html)
+### 2. Install [Maven](https://maven.apache.org/download.cgi)
+### 3. Verify installations:
+```bash
+java -version
+mvn -version
+```
+### 4. Clone the Repository
+```bash
+git clone https://github.com/drew18moore/platformer-java.git
+```
+### 5. Build and run the project
+Note: The JAR file's name may vary. Maven may generate two JAR files. Use the one **not** labeled `original-`
+```bash
+cd platformer-java
+mvn clean package
+java -jar target/platformer-java-1.0-SNAPSHOT.jar
+```
+