Short update that we are proceeding on the Events system.
We’re mostly done the tech. Now Michel and I are filling in the content and what I mentioned last time: trying to make it fun.
I had a realization today as I was working on an Event “Worg Pups”. The event in essence is happening upon a Worg mother which has just given birth. The mom could still be alive or dead. If still alive you could help it or slay it. Then there is the question of what to do with the pups. I know it sounds very opening of Game of Thrones. I didn’t start from there, but can’t avoid the similarity.
This question of what to do with the pups brought up design questions.
Can you gift them to others?
Does the game support that?
We have a relationship system with NPCs and the ability to gift anything (items, money).
'“Nothing says ‘I love you’ like the gift of a spatula.” (Only a few of you will get that reference!)
This is where I realized, at a high level, there are only 2 outcomes to an event:
Get a resource (money, xp, item, etc)
Enter combat
Get another event which gives you 1,2
Writing events where those are the only two outcomes is quite constraining. Of course good design works within the constraints. Often it is the constraints that spur on the creative solutions.
What if you can get an item that creates new interactions with NPCs, like if I got a worg pup.
I could give it to the mayor or a child I know.
I could sell it to an animal trainer.
I could stick it in my tower and forget about it.
(I’m not interested in simulating pets at this time. I am tempted to add an ‘aging’ mechanic to inventory items so the pup could become a full worg I could then have as a mount).
What I really like about this is the event ends in a new 3rd way which isn’t closed or constrained by me the designer. The conclusion is wide open to whatever the player can think of. it is open to as many people they know. It allows Events to tie into existing systems. It allows another way to roleplay.
I’m sure with some more time and thought better uses will arise.
I’m sure you will have some good ideas on how to utilize this!
Which brings me to my final point:
I need help on the community management side of the game. I would like a volunteer community manager who can help read feedback and bring my attention to things. Message me on the Discord if you are interested.
Here are a couple more wolf pup pictures I found. Sharing them for no other reason than they are cute:
