Quote:Should I add time to the release date in order to add a lot more visual variety to the cities?

In my opinion, you should focus more on the gameplay elements and mechanics rather then the visuals. If you have a fun game, it's a fun game and no one can deny that. Visuals are usually there just to lure in the audience (think Crysis). You have a fantastic graphics engine and you've proved that it's extremely easy to add in new buildings and variety to the city; now show how the game will play, the story, some of the alternative game modes available, etc.

Quote:Original post by Rob Loach

Quote:Should I add time to the release date in order to add a lot more visual variety to the cities?

In my opinion, you should focus more on the gameplay elements and mechanics rather then the visuals. If you have a fun game, it's a fun game and no one can deny that. Visuals are usually there just to lure in the audience (think Crysis). You have a fantastic graphics engine and you've proved that it's extremely easy to add in new buildings and variety to the city; now show how the game will play, the story, some of the alternative game modes available, etc.

Well I guess I think of visuals not only as a 'lure' to potential customers, but also as a replayability add. Visuals really are half of the equation in my mind.

I'm still really looking for a SOLID gameplay mode that I'm really happy with. I've come up with a number of things, but right now...getting the gameplay up to my standards is a primary concern. I guess I'm going to keep remaining "secretive" about the gameplay until I find a real hit.

I've got several modes integrated/tested...but I'm still not happy. I want something more, and I'm continuously serching for it.

I'll have a gameplay related update later on....I see some interesting things for this game, I just need more time to code it all up and do an initial test.

- Dan

Even though I love great visuals you definitely have to make the gameplay rock solid first. I'd say take as long as you want for the graphics, but you shouldn't start before you haven't finished making it playable (and enjoyable).

seems I would have to register to vote... sorry to be difficult, but I'm too lazy to do that [smile]. My thoughts though:

Quote:1. Yes, take as much time as you want!

This is just a cheap clause to have it run on and on and on and on and on... you need to have either a time or quality deadline - a line that once you've crossed you know its done. Disagree [smile]

Quote:2. No, I want it now! I don't care what it looks like.

This seems to suggest that visuals aren't important, whilst I agree that gameplay should be important I think a lack of visual polish can be just as bad a thing.

Quote:3. If you spend a day creating each new tile, a month should be good right?
4. Do what you can in a week or two, I don't want to wait long.

Either of these would get my vote.

Adding some more variety is a definite plus point, but you want to put a limit on it. I wouldn't like to comment on a time limit as I don't know how fast you can work (or, rather, translate an arbitrary amount of time into how the game might end up looking).

Another aspect beyond replayability is that a city with unique buildings/areas is easier to navigate. I found it in a lot of the GTA games - after enough playtime you'd stop needing the map because you could recognise where you were and thus know how to get to the next location. All of that is by looking at the buildings/landmarks (and a few other clues such as the type of people etc..)

That is, more variety will probably make the initial/original gameplay better.

hth
Jack