How do you decide?
by Andrew Coleman · in General Discussion · 05/17/2001 (9:09 pm) · 5 replies
How do you decide if a game should focus on single or multiplay? For example, I've got an idea that *should* work well in either format ( At least I think so). Some on my team feels differently. Any ideas on what criteria I should use to determine which aspect to focus on?
#2
05/17/2001 (9:35 pm)
That's the problem. I envisioned it more as a MOG. You create a character and roleplay it as much or little as you want within the games contraints. There never really was much of a "plot". It was more of a chatroom/gaming area. The main emphasis was on just playing a large assortment of games and interacting with others. My team wants to make it a single player game with a central character and an engaging plot. I *think* I can do that, but that was never the original intent so my design may not work. My only concern is that it won't be as much fun or have legs like I think my original idea does. How do I decide if their idea or mine is best for the game? Bear in mind we can only afford to work on one approach, not both.
#3
If you cant convince the others - chalenge them to come up with a synopsis and characters - if what you get back is anything less than brilliant - go with multiplayer.
Another thing is - do any of you have film training or experiance - because as soon as you go for 'compelling story' a good part of your visual portrayel of that story requires a high level of understanding of narrative techniques (and I dont mean your residant Fanboy either).
05/17/2001 (9:51 pm)
I think you've said it yourself - the idea that you can just turn around and 'hey presto' come up with an engaging storyline is remote (well - lets face it - unless any of you are experianced writers you got no chance) - I dont mean this harshly - and Im not denying that there may be some hidden writing talent in your team - but at the end of the day anyone with a brain can string a story together - but people that can write compelling stories that people actually like are worth allot of money - because they're rare.If you cant convince the others - chalenge them to come up with a synopsis and characters - if what you get back is anything less than brilliant - go with multiplayer.
Another thing is - do any of you have film training or experiance - because as soon as you go for 'compelling story' a good part of your visual portrayel of that story requires a high level of understanding of narrative techniques (and I dont mean your residant Fanboy either).
#4
05/18/2001 (2:56 pm)
Well, I have a brilliant RPG idea centered around single player. We(my team) are looking for a coder and most likely some more artists, so if you are interested in it, just tell me...
#5
05/21/2001 (8:52 pm)
Sounds interesting. There's 3 of us available. Email me @ guybrush123@hotmail.com and we'll talk more. 
Etienne Jabbour
is allot of the dynamics in your narrative set up around character interaction?
If yes to these then I personally would say you're looking at a single player game - just my thoughts anyway.