Help me build my game
Help me build my game
So a few buddies and I are crafting a challenge, essentially a spin-off of Burnout with some modding features from older NFS titles. We’re aiming for about 80 vehicles right now—some are realistic, others not. Budget is tight as we’re still teens, and we can’t afford licenses. We also considered blending the addictive Burnout vibe with the customization options from past NFS games. We’re thinking it could launch in Q4 this year, though no official date exists yet (still lots of placeholders, making it look pretty rough).
Anyway, I’ve got a few questions we’ve asked racing communities to gauge what they like or dislike.
basically I want to know your thoughts:
Q1. Each vehicle should come with standard skins—metallic, matte, glossy tones like blue, green, red. We’re exploring a marketplace where players can purchase loot crates with varying rarity or find items in-game and pay a small fee (like 10p) to unlock them. You’d get rewarded with a win or a dramatic failure. What do you think?
Q2. Another idea was adopting the loot system from MMOs like Borderlands, but expanding it. Imagine thousands of cars—six manufacturers, three base models, plus tons of customizations like reduced damage or faster gear shifts. You’d earn these enhanced vehicles by winning events, completing challenges, defeating NPCs, or attacking boss cars. Would you be interested in such a system?
Q3. Regarding off-road racing, we’re currently limited to tarmac and dirt tracks. We were thinking of adding varied terrains—gravel, snow, slush, black ice, etc.—and adjusting vehicle performance based on the surface. What do you think?
Q4. Realism versus fun: We’ve considered natural events like rain. While it could make the game more immersive, the current visuals are lacking due to texture issues. A hailstorm that causes red mist and makes cars faster but harder to control? Would that be appealing in a racing context?
Q5. Cockpit perspective: We’re not aiming for a simulator, so we’re curious about this. Do you prefer seeing the car inside, just from the outside, or through rear/side views? Interior details would be tough to model—hard to imagine.
Q6. Old vs new cars: We’ve built around 17 models, mostly modern (post-2000). Should we focus on all eras or stick to a specific time period like the 60s, 70s, 80s, or the current era?
Q7. Mod support: Honestly, I don’t need to ask—just let me know. Thanks for your time!
A marketplace could be appealing, especially with rare skins available as special drops. A2 notes that loot mechanics in car games often succeed or fail depending on execution (look at the team). A3 suggests embracing variety and asks if dynamic weather has been considered—how would rain impact gameplay? A4 recommends making it extra challenging if aiming for a paradise-style experience, since Paradise was enjoyable but could benefit from a strong successor. A5 expresses enthusiasm for cockpit perspectives but advises adding the feature later if you're the sole developer. A6 feels this project aligns with your vision but respects your creative control. A7 playfully asks about testers if needed.
Q1: If it costs 10p in real money—like app purchases—it feels really frustrating. But if it’s part of the game currency you can earn or win, then it makes sense.
Q2: A boss car in a racing game? It could work nicely if done right.
Q3: More effort is needed, but I think variety in track design would be better than just changing surfaces.
Q4: You have to choose between realism and wildness. There’s no middle ground here. Maybe add cheat codes or an option menu for this. If you go with the red rain, don’t ruin the steering completely.
Q5: Decide if you want to proceed fully or not at all.
Q6: I’m not concerned about it, but if you’re into it, go for it.
Q7: Yeah, definitely!
I considered it but no one will believe us without solid proof. Most Kickstarter projects start with flashy visuals, but after chatting with several development teams, we realized mechanics should come first. This approach helps avoid last-minute chaos from bugs. For example, we're building physics for all cars using just one model with around 200 parameters—way simpler than PS1 stuff. It's a tough process, but it adds real value.
Based on the game's condition, I'll share codes during the summer. It's not too far off yet. This community has helped me, and I'll repay the kindness.
I strongly dislike those kinds of things. It reminds me of Blur, but I’d really prefer a realistic sandbox racing game if it existed. All the yeses feel a bit forced. A3. That sounds intriguing, especially in specific environments like deserts to add an eerie atmosphere. A4. Personally, I enjoy seeing the cars from a third-person perspective for aesthetic appeal, though others might favor cockpit views. But modeling that would be extremely challenging. A5. I find it more appealing when presented in third person to appreciate the vehicles, but some might prefer first-person experiences. A6. It’s great to have a variety of cars spanning different eras. *clears throat*
It would be beneficial to have distinct appearances for each model or to design unique skins for every character. This detail might become a secondary consideration once the main game is complete. According to ThyFeared, incorporating skin drops could enhance the experience, though I remain opposed to randomizing rare items. It would detract from the challenge of grinding for exclusive skins over extended periods.
Adding this feature would be great if it helps players maximize their creations and offers diverse options. Allowing certain items to be purchased or earned could appeal to players who invest significant time in the game.
Including random events, like floods or rock slides, could add excitement depending on the game's theme. These ideas are just suggestions from my perspective.
The decision ultimately depends on your vision and team goals. Focusing on one style might be more practical, as few games successfully blend both realism and extreme gameplay. Still, you could be the one to nail it.
A cockpit view is always appreciated, as it enhances immersion. However, since you're the sole modeler, you have the freedom to skip this feature if needed.
Incorporating era-specific vehicles would be nice, but it might be simpler to start with modern cars and introduce older models later. This approach gives you more time to test and fine-tune settings.
Embracing mods expands possibilities and lets players contribute creatively. Wishing you success on your project!