In this installment of Dear Developer, I have to start by saying... Sony's Concord flop didn't have to occur.
You heard me right. (Yeah... I said it!)
This guy looks like the alien version of Nathan Drake mixed w/ Yondu!
Knowing When Enough is Enough
Developers must recognize when a particular concept has reached its saturation point at a particular time. With the abundance of PvP games on the market, how was Concord going to successfully compete? Instead, it could have been a single-player experience featuring a cast of memorable, badass characters on an unforgettable adventure. The concept was there as seen in the trailer, and this can still be salvaged and flipped because the structure is still there. For $400,000,000... I would sure as heck try to flip it.
Missed Opportunities
Imagine the blockbuster single-player title with a compelling storyline that this could have been. It’s disheartening to see so much investment go down the drain when this could have been a viable alternative. While I’m being vague (unless Sony pays for more details), it’s clear that a different approach could have yielded better results. Again, it doesn't have to be over (but make it download only).
Balancing online and Single-Player Elements
There could have been an aspect of the game that allowed for competitive online play, but... a full-blown PvP game in today’s saturated market, especially with numerous solid free-to-play options, was a risky move. I would have been surprised if it succeeded. I wouldn't even add PvP personally, competition would be served up in a different way.
A Different Perspective
This isn’t coming from the angle of a hater. $400,000,000 is a lot (like aloooooottttt) of freaking money to lose. The reaction from gamers might have been different if I had been involved in the decision-making process regarding the genre and direction of the game though and I highly doubt they'd be sitting in discount bins for $1. I can say that with a straight face. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make all the difference.
Overall, Sony’s Concord game had potential, but a different approach might have led to a more successful outcome. The assets can and should be whipped up to make single player magic, everything doesn't have to be multiplayer and this didn't have to be a... PvP hero shooter. It's okay to salvage or give it away.
Now more than ever, indie developers are getting their well-deserved recognition. Without the vast resources and budgets of larger game developers, indie creators rely on creativity and hard work, hoping gamers will embrace their games. When that happens, it’s a sigh of relief, as the success of a game can change developers’ lives.
That’s why we promote affordable courses that help aspiring developers create their own games. Whether you’re a solo developer or part of a team of friends, classmates, or like-minded strangers with a solid contract, you can tap into your dreams without waiting for established game studios to open their doors. Gamers are open to great games from indie teams, and if your game is awesome, it will get the love it deserves if it doesn't fly under the radar. So, salute to the indie developers out there, and for the rest of you aspiring to take that step.. be motivated by this Indie World Showcase + Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase:
Utilize the information below, and we look forward to checking out your game one day!
Step 1: Learn the Basics with Udemy Courses
Udemy offers a variety of courses that can help you get started with game development. Here are some top recommendations:
Practice with Projects: Apply what you’ve learned by working on small projects. This hands-on experience is crucial for mastering Unreal Engine.
Step 3: Upgrade Your Hardware
Creating an indie game requires a solid hardware setup to ensure smooth development and testing. This will cost a lot less than tuition when it comes to persuing a degree related to game development, and this is actually your equipment to keep and create games on. Here are the essential hardware components you’ll need:
Processor (CPU): A powerful CPU is crucial for handling the complex tasks involved in game development, such as compiling code, rendering graphics, and running simulations.
Intel Core i7 or i9: These processors offer excellent performance for most game development tasks.
AMD Ryzen 7 or 9: Known for their multi-threading capabilities these CPUs are great for handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is essential for rendering high-quality graphics and running game engines efficiently.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 or higher: These GPUs provide excellent performance for both 2D and 3D game development.
AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT or higher: Another great option for high-performance graphics rendering.
Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM is necessary to handle large assets and complex scenes in your game.
Minimum 16GB: Suitable for smaller projects and basic game development.
We Suggest 32GB or More: Idea for larger projects and more demanding tasks. If you stay ready, you don't have to get ready.
Storage: Fast and ample storage is crucial for storing your game assets, project files, and software.
SSD (Solid State Drive): At least 512GB for the operating system and software, plus an additional 1TB or more for project storage. SSDs offer faster load times and better performance compared to traditional HDDs. They're more afforable now, so it wouldn't be a stretch to get a good one at a "solid" price. :p
Monitor: A high-resolution monitor helps you see your game in detail and makes development easier.
27-inch or larger: Provided ample screen space for multitasking. Aim for two.
4K resolution: Offers sharp and clear visuals, which is especially useful for detailed work. You want to see your 4K game if you're presenting it as a title with 4K visiuals.
Peripherals: Quality peripherals can enhance your development experience.
Graphics Tablet: Useful for artists working on game assets and textures. There are some great options that are affordable and actually rival the biggest names around, so don't sleep on options like Xencelabs.
Backup Solutions: Regular backups are essential to prevent data loss.
Once you have a solid understanding of Unreal Engine, it’s time to start developing your game:
Pre-Production: Plan your game. Define the concept, story, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Create a game design document to guide your development process.
Prototyping: Build a prototype of your game. Focus on core gameplay mechanics and test them to ensure they are fun and engaging.
Production: Develop the full game. Create assets, implement gameplay features, and continuously test and refine your game.
Polishing: Focus on polishing your game. Improve graphics, fix bugs, and optimize performance to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Step 5: Launch and Market Your Game
After developing your game, the next step is to launch and market it:
Create a Marketing Plan: Define your target audience and create a marketing plan to reach them. Use social media, gaming forums, and other platforms to promote your game.
Launch on Platforms: Choose the right platforms to launch your game, such as Steam, Epic Games Store, or itch.io.
Engage with the Community: Build a community around your game. Engage with players, gather feedback, and continuously improve your game based on their input.
Creating an indie game is a challenging but rewarding journey. By following these steps and utilizing resources like Udemy courses and Unreal Engine, you can turn your game development dreams into reality. Just know that challenges are real, but luck favors the prepared. Remember, the indie game community is supportive, and gamers are always on the lookout for great games, regardless of their humble beginnings.
So, plan and proceed, and we look forward to playing your game one day!
Fight Evil Together in Miraculous: Paris Under Siege, Launching on Consoles & PC This October
Ladybug and Cat Noir leap into their most daring adventure yet in this solo and co-op action-adventure platformer!
MINNEAPOLIS – Aug. 16, 2024 – Announced today, Miraculous: Paris Under Siege is an all-new third-person action-adventure platformer inspired by the beloved animated television series Miraculous™ - Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir, launching later this year on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. Embark on a thrilling adventure where heroism, acrobatic combat, and stunning parkour collide as Shadow Moth unleashes a wave of villains across the city. It’s up to Ladybug and Cat Noir to save the day!
My Thoughts:
As we gear up to rescue Paris once again from the clutches of Shadow Moth, who this time controls the ruthless... Stormy Weather with ancient Egyptian powers, my fingers are crossed. You’ll battle akumatized villains from the series as the heroic Ladybug and Cat Noir in an all-new original story. Use unique abilities, master epic combos, and traverse the city of Paris with parkour finesse on your own or with seamless drop-in, "drop-out" local co-op with a friend. Yes, I quoted "drop-out". If you know... you know, and it has everything to do with the first installment.
While the description sounds exciting, I have some reservations. Miraculous: Rise of the Sphinx was clunky and lacked split-screen functionality when players split up, making it easy to fall off rooftops when off-screen... a lot (ahhhhhhhhh!). This shouldn’t have to be an issue; they should show the other player’s icon on the opposite side and teleport or respawn the player to their partner when the time is right. This could bring them back into the full screen (tada!). Additionally, I hope the long, drawn-out character scripts are replaced with more appealing content like... cutscenes or at least add in voiceovers!
I want Miraculous: Paris Under Siege to feel like a true 2024 release with significant improvements over Miraculous: Rise of the Sphinx. Developers need to fix the camera issues and ensure co-op gameplay is smooth, with both players respawning correctly. Kids might tolerate some flaws, but everyone appreciates effort and quality. Hopefully, the dev team has researched other 3D platforming titles to get a solid idea of how to excel, especially with couch co-op in mind.
The goal is to get people excited for the next release, not to brace themselves in hopes that it’s better. That’s a fair expectation... right? Fingers... still crossed.
Key Features:
Legendary Heroes Unite: Play as Ladybug and Cat Noir, each with their own stylish combat moves, and switch seamlessly between them. Call upon your fellow heroes like Rena Rouge, Carapace, and others during battle to turn the tide with coordinated attacks!
Master the Martial Arts: Execute agile combos on the ground and in mid-air, harnessing the full spectrum of Ladybug and Cat Noir’s abilities to defeat your enemies in high-flying style.
Fight Fearsome Foes: Face off against classic villains from the series, each posing unique challenges. From The Bubbler and Lady WiFi to Truth and Sole Crusher, you’ll need to adapt your tactics to counter their powers and save Paris.
Stylish Acrobatics: Use amazing parkour moves such as swinging, rail slides, and wall jumps to navigate the Parisian landscape, uncover secrets and outmaneuver enemies!
Customize Your Playstyle: Enhance your heroes’ abilities by earning experience to upgrade your traits: Life, Speed, Damage, Assist Energy, and Evade. Tailor your abilities to your preferred style and maximize your impact in battles.
Save the Day: Liberate Paris one district at a time, choosing your path through non-linear gameplay that encourages exploration and strategy. Restore light and hope to each corner of the city besieged by Shadow Moth’s dark influence.
Couch Co-op Adventures: Battle alongside a friend with seamless drop-in, drop-out local co-op and experience the thrill of saving Paris together.
