Devlog Update: Dialogue System Progress, What I Learned & Next Steps

Thanks to @Shorty's monthly contribution, we've been making solid progress on the dialogue system for the game, focusing on the core logic and key system structure. This update serves as a checkpoint on what has been completed and what still needs to be done.

Progress So Far

• Dialogue Entries: Structured with character references, responses, and dice roll mechanics.

• Response System: Players can select choices, which either lead to new dialogue or trigger a stat-based dice roll.

• Dice Roll System: Uses a D20-based mechanic inspired by Baldur’s Gate, where stat checks determine success or failure.

• Stat Overrides: If a player has a high enough stat, they can bypass dice rolls entirely, allowing for automatic success.

• Default Balancing: The stat override threshold is set at 15, following similar RPG mechanics.

• Finalized the Dialogue Structure: we finished the raw structure.

Next Steps

• Testing Phase: Once the system is complete, we’ll test it rigorously before integrating real dialogue data.

• Filling in the Script: After testing, we’ll begin feeding the system with the actual game dialogue and fine-tuning interactions.

• UI Not Implemented Yet: This is all underlying system logic—the actual UI framework is not yet in place and will come in a later phase.

• Visual Roll Animations: While the current system handles dice rolls logically, a visual representation (like Baldur’s Gate 3) will be added later.

This is still an early-stage implementation, focusing purely on the technical side before moving to content integration.

What I Learned Today

Its not that hard to work in a new environment nowadays. While I had about a year of side development in Unreal Engine to make Transmutation Tactics I also had the last 6 months to forget what skill I gained.

Yet the advancements of AI, particularly ChatGPT's coding canvas make the coding experience more like a conversation with a machine. As it should be, since coding is really just speaking to the computer. If it can be even more seamless it might get reduced to the point where it feels like casting magic. That would be great.

If you have the luxury of freed time like I had the chance today, I believe small video game projects are now doable by anyone who has a minimum of background with coding.

This is promising but it also shows how many jobs are going to become obsolete soon. I can't get a job in coding anywhere: instant rejections. Independent work is the way, I think.

Everyone will support each other's creation, at least that's what I hope. While those are dark times filled with uncertainty for us young people, I think it is going to be filled with opportunities to express ourselves with an ease never seen before.

If you feel like there is no way out of the jobless market know that you are not alone and starting micro businesses, or going all out in what passions you, power it with AI and I think you have every chances on your side.

If you have any feedback or ideas, feel free to share. More updates coming soon. ❤️