Kharkovchanka

Second game prototype for my CART 315 class

Game features

• Infinite and procedurally generated levels
• Dynamic vehicle controls
• Snow physics

Journal

Design hypothesis

• Task-based research game

• Semi-historical setting

• Procedurally-generated, but with a consistent through-line story (future development)

• Energy / power use system (implemented, but not used)

• Research mechanics

  • Star tracking
  • Meteorite discovery
  • Ice core drilling

• Rogue-like in its iterative gameplay (more future development)

Development

Entry 1

• Started with a very simple idea
• Messed around with snow physics and vehicle controls

Entry 2

• Added basic textures, models, and lighting
• Focusing mainly on the mechanics rather than a story just yet

Entry 3

• Finished snow physics
• Added terrain effects
• Made terrain modular and chunk-loading-based

Entry 4

• Started work on title screen
• A lot of small tweaks and optimization

Entry 5

• Added points of interest mechanics and models
• Created minimap

Entry 6

• Final cleanup
• Added info scene

Questions for playtesters

Make sure to open the Start scene first

1. How do the vehicle controls feel? Too slide-y? Too fast/slow?
2. Would something like an energy system (would deplete with each task completed) work well here, to create consequences and/or resource management?
3. If a story were to be added, would a large, complex narrative, or a small character-based one be better?
4. In reference to the above question, I think a dating sim set between various researchers on the Kharkovchanka might be hilarious. Would this be a bad idea to pursue?
5. Should this game have music? Or is the quiet rumbling of the engine actually enjoyable on its own?

Results from playtesting

Main issues

• Possible lag issues and/or shader performance
• Too much maneuverability
• Movement was a bit jerky
• Sound was a bit too quiet
• Lack of clear objective

Main enjoyments

• Sound effects are good (don't necessarily need music)
• Good base for further gameplay and story development
• Movement is good, for the most part
• Snow shader is appreciated

Improvements to be made

• Add narrative (this will help a lot)
  • Smaller rather than larger
• Radio system would be neat to implement
• Add consequences for depleting energy
• Make points of interest more interesting