Game Development -
INSTRUCTION
Task 1 Game Evaluation/Critical Analysis:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YsYWXFdXfsFzQrooemQgck9TFxkUXZBYWTAtdiXOrno/edit?usp=sharing
Introduction:
Zapper Snapper is a 2D platform game developed by one of Taylor's student. This action-packed title tasks players with stopping a virus outbreak and destroying the source of the infestation.
Gameplay Mechanics:
Players navigate through levels while battling enemies and obstacles, with a health bar displayed in the top-right corner. The primary objective is to eliminate the virus and progress through the game world. While the attack animations are well-executed, the controls suffer from responsiveness issues. The jump mechanic, in particular, feels exaggerated and disruptive, negatively impacting the overall gameplay experience. This imbalance between challenge and accessibility poses a significant hurdle for players.
Story and Narrative:
The game's storyline revolves around a failed experiment that has unleashed a virus outbreak. Players take on the role of a protagonist tasked with eradicating the virus from its source, an abandoned laboratory. The setting is a familiar one, reminiscent of a retro arcade game, with the action unfolding in a city backdrop with back-alley buildings.
Graphics and Art Style:
Zapper Snapper features a retro-inspired pixel art style, evoking nostalgia for classic arcade games. The art direction is consistent, with a cohesive visual aesthetic throughout the game world. Character models, environments, and interactive objects are well-designed, with foreground elements appearing brighter and more vibrant. The animations, particularly those involving character actions and effects, are noteworthy and contribute to the overall immersive atmosphere.
Sound Design:
The game's soundtrack and sound effects effectively complement the action and enhance the overall ambiance. Sound cues for jumping, attacking, and falling help create a sense of realism and immersion. While the audio elements are well-executed, they do not necessarily stand out as particularly memorable or groundbreaking.
Critical Reception and Player Feedback:
While the game's art style and narrative premise have been generally well-received, the core gameplay mechanics, particularly the exaggerated jump and run mechanics, have drawn criticism from players. These issues with the controls and overall responsiveness have been cited as significant flaws, detracting from the overall gaming experience.
Conclusion:
Although Zapper Snapper boasts a cohesive art style and an intriguing premise, the game's primary weakness lies in its gameplay mechanics. The unbalanced jump mechanic and responsiveness issues with the controls significantly hinder the overall enjoyment and accessibility of the game. While the visuals and sound design are commendable, the flawed gameplay experience ultimately overshadows these positive aspects, resulting in a less-than-stellar overall impression.
Game 2 : Reaper Test
Introduction:
Reaper Test is a 2D platform game developed by another Taylor's student. In this game players take on the role of a character tasked with completing a series of challenges to become the next Grim Reaper.
Gameplay Mechanics:
The core gameplay mechanics revolve around running, jumping, and attacking obstacles and enemies. Players have a life bar (XP) displayed on the left side of the screen, accompanied by an energy bar below it. The objective is to navigate through levels and overcome various challenges to progress and ultimately reach the top of a floating tower known as "Hells Points." The controls are simple and intuitive, with straightforward mechanics for running, jumping, and using right-click and left-click for different attack options. The game strikes a balance between presenting a challenge and remaining accessible, even for newcomers to the genre, with obstacles designed to be both fun and thrilling.
Story and Narrative:
The game's narrative follows the journey of Kuro, a human who has died in a car accident and has been chosen by the gods to become the next Grim Reaper. To earn this role, Kuro must complete a series of tests set forth by the gods, which involve reaching the summit of the Hells Points tower without fail. The backstory is well-explained through pop-up text conversations, providing context and depth to the gameplay experience.
Graphics and Art Style:
Reaper Test features a simple visual style, with the developer aiming to create an underground environment. While the graphics are adequate for the game's production scale (being developed by a single person), there is room for improvement in terms of artistic direction and cohesiveness with the narrative. The overall visual experience can feel somewhat bland at times, lacking the contrast and vibrancy that could enhance the game's atmosphere.
Sound Design:
The game includes a soundtrack and sound effects that complement the game's ambiance. While the audio elements are functional and contribute to the overall experience, they do not necessarily stand out as particularly memorable or noteworthy.
Critical Reception and Player Feedback:
One common criticism from players and critics alike is the lack of contrast and visual appeal in the game's graphics. However, the game has received praise for its clear explanation of objectives and directions, making it easy for players to understand the game's mechanics and progression.
Conclusion:
Reaper Test excels in its simplicity, offering an accessible and enjoyable gameplay experience for both newcomers and seasoned gamers alike. The straightforward mechanics and well-explained objectives contribute to the game's strengths, while the overall visual presentation could benefit from further refinement to better align with the narrative and create a more immersive atmosphere. Despite its shortcomings in the graphics department, the game's balance of challenge and accessibility makes it a fun and thrilling addition to the 2D platform genre.