Games by JimD Newsletter – Part 2-2 Released!

March saw the release of Zombie Exodus; Safe Haven Part 2-2! It was a bit of a bumpy start with a few bugs, but the apps should be stable now. Though Part 2-2 took up some of my time this month away from writing, it was still productive. I’ll get into my plans for the future and discuss all games in development.

Zombie Exodus: Safe Haven

Now that part 3 is released, my plans moving forward are twofold:

• Fix lingering errors and balance issues
• Work on Part 3. Currently, I’ve written 29,000 words.

Since the majority of my time will be spent on part 3, i will use my newsletter to highlight specific features i’m working on, starting right now.

To Be (Leader) or Not To Be (Leader)

The first feature i’ll discuss is inspired by a question that came up at the Choice of Games forum. Since the game makes a huge deal out of being the group leader, is the main character forced to be leader?

The simple answer is no. Of course, I’ll explain.

When I code ZE:SH, I account for three leadership styles: Dedicated Leader, Influencer, Group member.

Dedicated Leaders have the most choices to impact the group’s survival, along with the most responsibility. You will shape the group over time, having the most influence on each member’s tasks, who goes on missions, and every other aspect of the group. You will be in on every decision. Jaime and Rachel may be utilized as co-leaders or second-in-command, but Dedicated Leaders will deal with all levels of group management.

Influencers are not the group’s leader but still want to be in on major decisions or offer advice to the leader. This is similar to the way you acted in early parts of the first Zombie Exodus. You can vote on decisions, make suggestions, and influence the leader. You may even be the behind-the-scenes leader, but you won’t have to deal with the minute details of running the group.

Group members do not want to deal with any part of leadership or managing the group. They just want to be in a group and survive. This type of player will not lack contact. They have more time and freedom to do anything in the game. Being part of a group, all members will be given tasks, asked to complete chores, and expected to go on missions. They can choose to do them or not with consequences. It is truly a different playstyle.

My hope is for all readers to try each playstyle.

Vampire Fiction

With episodes 1-3 released, i am working on episode 4. I am guessing it will be released in April. Some speed bumps slowed my writing. In addition, i receive no stats on how many users have read it. Thankfully, i have received some reader email or tweets asking for updates, so at least a few people have read it. If you have, please let me know. What do you like or dislike? If you haven’t tried it and own an iPhone or iPad, please try it. Episode 1 is free!