Unique Business Model - Backstory Included
by Carl Van Ostrand · in Game Design and Creative Issues · 05/18/2007 (2:31 pm) · 1 replies
I will keep this short. Email me/post if you inspired by this and have ideas to execute.
Several years ago I helped develop a game (not a video game). I wrote lore, designed rule sets, worked with the artists, etc. Best time of my life. The game was highly praised on the fronts I was involved in. I have a knack for organizing and developing concepts, and knowing what will work and what will not. I am successful in my "real life" but like many of you here, I am always pulled in by the video game vortex.
World:
Fantasy combat, fictional planet. A dominant race arrived on a planet where 3 lesser-minded races co-exist peacefully (for the most part). The alien race has spurred on a bloodsport of organized arena combat, pitting fighters against each other, much to the pleasure and entertainment of the masses. The real question is, why? Sure, the usual money and power, but is there something more?
Focus:
This is a character focused game - even more specifically, this is a combat item-focused game. The build of your character and what he/she brings to the arena, is the backbone and the fun. The game will not be built on the usual aspirations of "expansive explorable universe" and "realistic explosions!" etc.
Business Model:
Remember what I said about "combat item-focused" game? We give you everything you need to compete in these arenas. You use your spoils (in-game or out-of-game) to change/upgrade/define your character. Some of you will understand and recognize other markets where this "collectible" concept made millions. It's not evil, it's cool - and I think people are ready for it.
Something else to think about:
Enough with the "Strength, Mana/Magic, Intelligence" etc. What really defines a fighter? How about Muscle, Technique, Reflexes - see where I am going with this? Redefining you're hero's traits will translate in to a fresh feel and new twists on "character stats" and "item bonuses." The words "stats" annoys me a bit. =)
Have a good one,
Carl
Several years ago I helped develop a game (not a video game). I wrote lore, designed rule sets, worked with the artists, etc. Best time of my life. The game was highly praised on the fronts I was involved in. I have a knack for organizing and developing concepts, and knowing what will work and what will not. I am successful in my "real life" but like many of you here, I am always pulled in by the video game vortex.
World:
Fantasy combat, fictional planet. A dominant race arrived on a planet where 3 lesser-minded races co-exist peacefully (for the most part). The alien race has spurred on a bloodsport of organized arena combat, pitting fighters against each other, much to the pleasure and entertainment of the masses. The real question is, why? Sure, the usual money and power, but is there something more?
Focus:
This is a character focused game - even more specifically, this is a combat item-focused game. The build of your character and what he/she brings to the arena, is the backbone and the fun. The game will not be built on the usual aspirations of "expansive explorable universe" and "realistic explosions!" etc.
Business Model:
Remember what I said about "combat item-focused" game? We give you everything you need to compete in these arenas. You use your spoils (in-game or out-of-game) to change/upgrade/define your character. Some of you will understand and recognize other markets where this "collectible" concept made millions. It's not evil, it's cool - and I think people are ready for it.
Something else to think about:
Enough with the "Strength, Mana/Magic, Intelligence" etc. What really defines a fighter? How about Muscle, Technique, Reflexes - see where I am going with this? Redefining you're hero's traits will translate in to a fresh feel and new twists on "character stats" and "item bonuses." The words "stats" annoys me a bit. =)
Have a good one,
Carl
Torque Owner JD