YummyTiger

Chapter 1 Maps completed

Added 2015-07-22 08:02:49 +0000 UTC

Chapter 1 will feature about 90% of the Zalran area. If my quick tally is correct, there are 22 maps (not including house interiors). I'm sure you all will have fun exploring the new stuff, but don't neglect the old stuff as I've added a few things to find.

Next up on my list is inputting all the events into these new maps. I've got the chapter 1 script completed, but I have to add each event and dialogue portraits. This is a somewhat tedious and time consuming process. I also need to make sure that a neat quest feature is input correctly. It is pretty cool, I promise. I'm really hoping that this weekend I can post "Chapter 1 eventing complete." If so, that would mean that all I have left to do is configure the new enemy AI script (which I've already learned how to do) and finish the remaining CGs! Woohoo!

Now, for some map related game information:

First, Aylia's Story will feature "areas" and Chapter 1 takes place in the Zalran area. One game I loved was Sangeki of Gear by ScaleGarden, but I hated running across all those damn maps. I understand the necessity to make the player realize that these areas are some distance away, but it is damn tedious. So, in Aylia's Story, I'm attempting to improve on that mechanic by using a system similar to Vitamin Quest. When traveling around inside "areas," you move through maps transitions like normal, but when you hit an "area" border (which will be indicated by a blinking map icon), you'll actually set yourself up to travel long distances. This will be done via a large world map (drawn in fantasy style) and you'll select your destination along that route. This will come into effect in Chapter 2, but will be quite cool I think. In addition, events will randomly occur during these travels (ranging from battles, to campfire conversations, etc.) and you'll have to bring provisions for the journey.

Second, things will change as time passes between chapters. The game is sectioned into chapters because I want the world to change dynamically based on your in-game actions. So, time will pass in between chapters and these maps will change. While this is not a fully open world experience, as you're limited to areas that Aylia would realistically travel given the circumstances, it is not a linear experience either. There actually will be reasons to visit old areas and find new scenes as the game progresses. One of the coolest features, and I'm super excited to start working on it, will be seeing Zalran itself come back to life. Seeing those shops open back up, and the hot springs. Seeing the newcomers moving to Zalran. Will be very cool.

Finally, you can expect the same level of detail in the new maps as what you saw in the prologue. In fact, I've improved my parallaxing skills, and I think things are looking even better. Don't neglect exploring, as I plan to have a number of secrets hidden throughout the game. Many events/scenes will be straightforward and quest-related, but I want to have a few sneaky scenes for those overachievers who scour every nook and cranny. It'll probably be a bit hard to find them all without the scene gallery in place, but that will just make playing through the final release more refreshing.

Well, that's that. As it is 3am, it is probably time for me to sleep. I'm pretty stoked though as the finish line gets closer and closer. I'm pretty sure that everything left on my list are things I already have the know-how to complete. When I get the eventing done, I think I should be able to give you guys a realistic release date. I really do appreciate everyone's patience through this process!

Thanks!

YummyTiger