SyntaxBomb - Indie Coders

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: therevills on November 10, 2017, 23:13:13

Title: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: therevills on November 10, 2017, 23:13:13
So we've done Halloween and Asterioids, whats next?

* Christmas?
* New Year Eve?
* Platformer
* One Screen Game
* 320x200 resolution
* RPG

and what time frame?
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Matty on November 10, 2017, 23:19:33
Selfish answer here:
I'd love a competition to be had that uses my sprites found at:
http://www.mattiesgames.com/assets/

They're all png sprites.

I'd love to see them used and enjoyed in various game styles.

It might encourage me to make more too.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 10, 2017, 23:31:54
Well Christmas is the obvious one, but that doesn't give much time to complete.

Platformer, always liked the genre - and lots of possibilities.

One Screen concentrates the game play.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 10, 2017, 23:55:36
Quote from: Steve Elliott on November 10, 2017, 23:31:54
Platformer, always liked the genre - and lots of possibilities.

I've never made a proper platformer in my whole life! I think the closest I've ever come to doing so was a very old and extra-silly PD game of mine called 'Elevator' way back in 1994: youtube.com/watch?v=_52GU4OEqYI&t=300s

So it would be quite a (welcome) challenge for me.

Incidentally, it would be fairer to Qube if those of us who can afford to chip in, could contribute something to the prize fund? I would never presume, but I think a few of us could chuck in some brass without breaking our banks. No ill-will of course towards those who can't, but I just thought it'd be fairer if some of us did.   


BasicBoy.
--
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: round157 on November 11, 2017, 00:22:40
Hi,

Theme suggestions:

Easter, Valentine's Day or April Fool's Day.

However, April Fool's Day should be better than the other two themes because many people will join because of this strange theme. In addition, very creative games will be made because of this strange theme.
:D
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: ThickO on November 11, 2017, 01:54:33
And a donate button to help Qube pay for this stuff.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Yue on November 11, 2017, 04:06:01
I'd like it in the personal 3D. Best 3d model, best 3d game.

Greetings.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 11, 2017, 04:19:31
Can modern cards even go into 320x240 fullscreen?!?!?  :)

I suggest a retro winter theme.

Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Rick Nasher on November 11, 2017, 09:31:22
I'd prefer a 3d game too,  but I have the feeling I'm not there yet as my universal framework is still 'under construction' :-) which takes up the little time I have.

Getting there slowly but surely.. Perhaps next round.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 11, 2017, 11:07:50
Doing 2D in 3D is possible, doing 3D in 2D is not possible. So enforcing 3D is limiting the list of potential participants.


If you enforce a 3D title, then the gameplay should really _need_ the 3D environment. If the same game could be done in 2D there is no need to have it 3D.


I for myself would like to see games with opponents behaving some kind of "smart". Some "AI"-stuff. And no, A-star-pathfinding is _no_ AI. And nope, no need to have neural networks, just talking about the AI weighting things here and there - so it is able to play versus another AI.
This is btw another thing a competition could be about: someone codes a "simple game" and maybe we all create some nifty assets. The competition would then be to provide an AI. The AI could either control the game via Lua (available for many platforms) or a DLL/.so (so other languages should be possible too).


When it comes to games:
- define theme ?
- define game type ?
- define control (direct movement versus indirect movement by just telling the figure "what" it should do - like "build a house")
- define ambience (dark, funny, horror, crazy)

I wanted to do a Tower Defence for ages but never even started one.
Never did a platformer but think there are some among us who are experienced there and would definitely put one together which just says "eat my dust" to us noobs.
Never did a real time strategy game (with multiple units) ... hmmm "Santa versus magma dwarfs" sounds like a "save the gifts from incoming waves of evil magma dwarve hordes" (with "Throw-A-Doll-Towers", "Freezy Elf Traps", ...)
Never did an adult game ... ok strike that, just remembered I did some strip-poker game a decade ago - but might be fun ;-)
Never completed a children game - something very young people could play and it contains something to "learn".
Maybe doing a remake of an arcade game could be fine? I mean the competition master chooses the game and others try to remake (improvements allowed) it.


bye
Ron


Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 11, 2017, 11:32:35
@ Derron
Quotedoing 3D in 2D is not possible
not strictly true. You can do any type of 3d in 2d, but you will have to be really good at maths and understand the issues it can present.

To illustrate, here are some (NOT 3D) all done in 2d examples:
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2016/11/screen-shot-2016-11-26-at-14-12-28.png)

(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/screen-shot-2016-07-05-at-10-43-38.png)

(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/screen-shot-2016-04-29-at-07-26-01.png)

(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/screen-shot-2014-05-16-at-07-10-24.png)

(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/screen-shot-2014-05-12-at-11-58-46.png)

Also check out a little known game called Doom. I believe it is NOT 3D either... <grin>
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 11, 2017, 11:48:01
It is "3d". as you can "rotate" in a 3d environment.

In a 2D game you cannot hide behind a wall and walk "deeper" into the screen until you see the one behind the wall. It is clear to me that you can "render" it 3D but this is not what I was talking about.
In a 2D game you need to jump over an enemy - in a 3D game you could just walk by.

Regarding the screens you posted: it does not matter how you call it - but your engine seems to be a "3D engine" as it allows "free rotation" in all 3 axis (not just 90 Degrees which allows "fake 3D" rotation). Also your screens contain an "isometric view" - without free rotation this is of course doable in 2D only - as it is then just a matter of the perspective used for the game. And no, designing graphics for every possible rotation/view is surely possible but this is not what I would call "3D" either.

bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 11, 2017, 12:19:58
mmm, but NO!
This is 2d, just drawing characters onscreen
(https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/images/15/oct/tggw.jpg)

this is also 2d. using sprites instead of characters
(https://roguetemple.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/screenshot_2016-01-24-09-50-45.png)

this is also 2d. using textured shapes as sprites. But with some maths you can make it look like 3d, but it isn't!
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/screen-shot-2014-05-12-at-11-58-46.png)

if the first image is definitely 2d then the last image is also 2d. as there is NO 3d code, just some maths. the map is the same as the first one, there are just x,y locations.

This 'could' be done in 3d, using 3d models and texturing. that WOULD be 3d, but NOT in this case, there are no 3d models, just some textures and a map.

Another thought for you. is Fez 3d or 2d?

Doom is definitely NOT 3d, it is a 2d map with some clever screen rendering, but it is NOT 3d.

similarly this:
(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mobygames.com%2Fimages%2Fshots%2Fl%2F4005-dungeon-master-dos-screenshot-mummy-attacks.jpg&hash=54fdf9479bad0499d2ab17315f3b9a686d903f21)
is also not 3d, but uses a more primitive version of using modified sprites and clever graphics to suggest 3d.

and also Diablo 1 and 2 are not 3d:


sooo.... Maybe make a game "IN THE STYLE OF xxxx" << insert a game style.

the line of what is and isn't 2d/2.5d/3d etc is a very blurred one
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 11, 2017, 12:43:52
IMO the style of game should be purely up to the individual, and it's the theme that counts.

Having prettier graphics doesn't mean you guarantee a win.  Personally (for me) it's all about game play.  :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 11, 2017, 12:49:44
Of course I know that Doom is 2D and not 3D - but as said it simulates a "3d world" - which requires a different gameplay.
Fez is also simulating a 3D world.


this is why I gave the example of a jumping run requiring you to jump _over_ an enemy/obstacle. You cannot just move a step to the left or to the right. Turning the world 90° is something similar.

Exception is, if the "obstacle" stays the same and an you just get another "view" to the scenery.

This is why gameplay for a 2D game differs from the gameplay in 3D. 3D _could_ use the gameplay limits of 2D, but 2D cannot use the extended possibilities of 3D. And nope, I am not talking about the presentation ("rendering" of a 3D-world).


game idea (I do not really like that ;-)): Mini golf.
or
game theme: be the bad boy (so you fight the heroes and Prince Charmings)


bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 11, 2017, 13:07:38
Doom is obviously 3d :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 11, 2017, 13:09:54
We are talking about the 90s Doom.


It is using a 3D World (which I am talking about) but no 3D Graphics (everything are 2D sprites skewed/manipulated to gain that a 3D look).
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 11, 2017, 13:16:51
Quote from: Derron on November 11, 2017, 13:09:54
We are talking about the 90s Doom.

Yes, I figured that, still disagree: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=9652869

It is pretty obvious when a picture has a 3rd dimension. Whether it is using software-renderer, 2d maps, or even 1d array, or anything else is irrelevant IMHO. That's like pornography - I know it when I see it :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 11, 2017, 13:18:37
It's 3d, isn't ?

http://www.squidi.net/threep/p083/

Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: therevills on November 11, 2017, 23:13:37
Quote from: muruba on November 11, 2017, 04:19:31
Can modern cards even go into 320x240 fullscreen?!?!?  :)

The virtual resolution can be 320x240 :)

Quote from: muruba on November 11, 2017, 04:19:31
I suggest a retro winter theme.

Why winter? Its coming into Summer here :P

For me 3D would be too much work... the assets that some much to create.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 12, 2017, 01:22:11
How about...

A Commodore 64 era type game.

320x200 resolution ( virtual resolution ).
Using the same colour palette.
Sound and music in the same SID type vein too.

This gives a large scope for a game type.

*edit* - I know it wasn't 320x200 but more 160x200 ( double width pixels for 320x200 )
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 12, 2017, 01:59:48
Resolution limits limit gameplay.


Cannot imagine to create "solitaire game"/other card game in 160x200 - without looking pretty much like an Ascii-game :-)
Aside of that (with eg. a given game type - so all have the same "problems") it's ok to have this restriction.

Regarding music: I never did music myself and I doubt I am able to create something "listenable".


Edit: one thing we should consider: is this competition for "old users" or should it attract also people who are new to the forums - and maybe a bit younger (used to "00s"-games and not 80s or 90s).


bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: fairgood on November 12, 2017, 02:24:55
I like the idea of a one screen game and c64 (320 x 200)
How about a one screen c64 game ?
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 12, 2017, 12:32:58
Also keep in mind that having a "low resolution" limits especially those who are "capable" of creating high-res imagery. It is like saying: ok, guys, this is the off-road-racetrack - but all cars have a speed limit of 50mph. Of course there will be still people who steer their cars the most efficient way - but it is no longer of importance how good a driver could steer on high speed.

I understand that a limit can increase creativity but it also cuts off abilities at a certain level. You are good at creating photorealistic 3d models/renderings? Doesn't help you with 160x200. So you end up doing the same stuff someone does who is not able to create what you create. It is an artifical limitation helping the ones who exert the level of the limit but crippling those who could better.
It is like saying: only chiptunes are allowed - and those with the most thrilling voice would not be allowed to have a self-sung music track - or people playing an instrument are not allowed to use a self-recorded music track.

Regarding chiptunes: if one is experienced with this I would like to read a guide/introduction/thread about it (liked to do some music for decades now - even I am afraid of "unknowingly" copying parts from music I have heard somewhen and somewhere, there is less variation possible than with images/gfx).


bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 12, 2017, 14:06:43
oooh 320x200 pixel screen - I like it!
I've got the vic20/c64 28 color palette here which I can post if that helps?
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 12, 2017, 16:16:13
Quote from: iWasAdam on November 12, 2017, 14:06:43
oooh 320x200 pixel screen - I like it!

I like the idea as well.

To be sure, we're talking about a 320x200 'canvas' stretched up to, say, potentially full screen size?


BasicBoy.
--
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Flanker on November 12, 2017, 16:28:43
Quote from: muruba on November 11, 2017, 13:18:37
It's 3d, isn't ?

http://www.squidi.net/threep/p083/

Thanks for sharing, I gave it a try, it's fairly simple and here is what I got so far with Blitzmax :
https://youtu.be/hi8vvoUKCOQ (https://youtu.be/hi8vvoUKCOQ)

I'd like to participate in the game competition, but not a fan of 320x200 graphics, it's more like a limitation than a inspiration to creativity.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 12, 2017, 16:37:51
Quote
I'd like to participate in the game competition, but not a fan of 320x200 graphics, it's more like a limitation than a inspiration to creativity.

That was my initial thought too.

But it would mean less time producing graphics, more time for coding the game and working on the game play - so I also vote for a 320 x 200 resolution limited game.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 12, 2017, 17:01:43
Many of us will have played them old 8-bit games with their chunky graphics in our youth, and were absolutely absorbed by them for hours on end because the gameplay was great despite the limitations of the hardware. I grew up with an Acorn Electron (I can hear some ex-C64 users laughing already!), and brilliant games like Citadel, Repton, Elite (white, flickery wireframe graphcs!) and many others, consumed thousands of hours of my early teenage life. The BBC Micro game Exile (a product of two extreme talents) was deep and rich, had only 7 colours, and chunkier graphics than most C64 games. Yet the graphics resolution simply wasn't a distraction for most because the gameplay and immersive atmosphere (largely due to the realistic physics) was incredible. The beautiful game Imogen is another case in point.


BasicBoy.
--
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 12, 2017, 18:06:17
I have an Amstrad 6128, I still love it even after all these years! :)

I've also got one of these beauties plugged into the back for a bit of Wifi action:-

http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/amstrad-cpc-wifi/
(http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/amstrad-cpc-wifi/)

The networking capability of the expansion card and its features is a joy, best thing I've ever bought for it!

I digress though, yeah, if its a retro'y compo setup, I might have a play! :)

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 12, 2017, 20:17:55
Well I'm not in charge of the comps but my thoughts on an outline could be :

1.. Commodore 64 style game.
2.. Using a virtual res of 320x200 - You don't have to be forced to 2 pixel width if you don't want.
3.. Sound effects and music in the 8-bit SID vein. It doesn't have to be resampled 8-bit sounds but has to represent the sound of a C64.
4.. You use the C64 colour palette of 16 colours. (https://www.syntaxbomb.com/images/C64ColourPalette.png)
5.. Game style can be anything you want.

I think it would force us to get creative having limits to work in and put more emphasis back into gameplay.

Just my thought :P
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 12, 2017, 20:27:21
I like the idea of a reduced resolution game at 320 x 200.

But why does it have to use a c64 palette and game look?  I know some here owned a c64.  I wasn't one of them.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 12, 2017, 20:34:41
Just an idea is all. At this rate you lot will still be discussing what do next month :P
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 12, 2017, 20:38:45
lol the consensus seems to be retro 320 x 200  8)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 12, 2017, 20:43:50
Quote from: Steve Elliott on November 12, 2017, 20:38:45
lol the consensus seems to be retro 320 x 200  8)
Jolly good, so..

Theme : retro style game using a virtual resolution of 320 x 200

Now, time scale and rules need sorting out.. Come on you lot, Christmas is coming ;D
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 12, 2017, 20:52:18
I don't know what everyone else thinks, but January 1st seems like a good start to the new year with the new game entries.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 13, 2017, 06:32:29
heres the vic20 28 color palette - a nicer one to work with than the c64 16 color one:
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2017/11/screen-shot-2017-11-13-at-06-30-45.png)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: TomToad on November 13, 2017, 10:40:40
I don't think that is a vic 20 palette.  The vic 20 had only 16 colors like the C64.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_8-bit_computer_hardware_palettes#VIC-20
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 13, 2017, 12:17:42
Qube could provide a list of random colours that must be used in the game, obviously a limited amount (8 maybe, maybe less) to see how we use them:-

https://www.randomlists.com/random-color (https://www.randomlists.com/random-color)

Dabz

Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 13, 2017, 12:20:42
Not random please, even zx-spectrum 's 8-colors are gonna shine comparing to a random palette :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 13, 2017, 12:35:02
Awwwwwww it'll be fun! :D

And I'll be honest, I'm not a fan of 8-bit commodore micro palettes, they look washed out and drab when compared to the outstandingly gloriously vibrant selection we Amstrad'ers had! :P

*Dabz pulls on his tin hat*

;)

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 13, 2017, 12:39:04
Qube already said retro 320 x 200.  Now we're back fumbling about over palettes again!   :o

Best leave colors upto the person producing the game really.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: TomToad on November 13, 2017, 12:56:35
We could set a limit on the number of colors and let the programmer decide which ones.  Maybe 320x200x16 colors.  So you can use C64 colors, ZX spectrum, EGA, or your own palette.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 13, 2017, 12:57:31
+1

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 13, 2017, 13:08:54
16 simultaneously shown colors
or
16 colors at all?

bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 13, 2017, 13:19:04
Quote
We could set a limit on the number of colors and let the programmer decide which ones.  Maybe 320x200x16 colors.  So you can use C64 colors, ZX spectrum, EGA, or your own palette.

(16 colours on-screen Darron) sounds fair enough too me.   :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 13, 2017, 14:40:59
so 320x200, 16 Color Max.
How about a minor limit: Whatever the 16 color palette, it is shown on the start screen, so we can all see the palette used and how it was interpreted?
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 13, 2017, 15:31:09
lol man you are obsessed by palettes haha.

No because you'd get Derron saying we should have used a different shade of blue that would better complement the scene!  :P

You guys are over complicating this.  320 x 200, 16 colours on screen and any palette that suits the game or scene within the game.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 13, 2017, 16:17:10
Cor, have we settled on a 320x200 virtual resolution with a 16 colour palette of your choice? 8)

Quote16 simultaneously shown colors
or
16 colors at all?
I assume you pick 16 colours as your palette and that is all you can use for your graphics.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Rooster on November 13, 2017, 17:56:59
I'd say 16 colors max.

The rule sets looking interesting, you might pull me away from real life stuff to enter this one.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 13, 2017, 18:06:14
Thank heavens we ain't required to use the palette from the 8-bit machine I grew up with:

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proggies.uk%2Fimg%2Fbeeb_cols.gif&hash=dfeeb8686451dad92915bbdd6daa0b2f68edb6cc)

;D


Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 13, 2017, 18:24:12
lol ZX Spectrum.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 13, 2017, 19:08:44
Progress ;D

OK, so now someone needs to whip up the whole shebang.

Game comp outline
Game comp rules
Submissions in by X date
Prize fund tier
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 13, 2017, 22:37:29
Closing date people??
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 14, 2017, 04:11:23
QuoteClosing date people??

With the Christmas period approaching I reckon we either go for :

1.. December 23rd by midnight GMT ( would be good to have all entries in before the new year and it gives us something to play over Christmas :P )
2.. January 6th by midnight GMT ( gives a little more time due to the festive merriness for users to sober up and remember how to use a keyboard )

Personally I think option 1 as 5 weeks is enough to code a retro game. Plus this then leads us into the new year for the next round which can be a longer time period.

I think most are all happy with a retro 320x200 virtual resolution and a 16 colour palette of your choice as a game theme. I love the idea and think it's gonna be a lot of fun especially on the creativity side of things.

We just need a date for all submissions to be in and the usual set of rules. I suggest we also stick to having the top three winners. I'm not sure if the proposed forum crowd funding of the winners pot is still an option but there will be at least £500 split between the top three winners guaranteed by yours truly. If members are still wanting to do this then this can be sorted during the comp but at least £500 will in the prize fund.

Lets get this finalised today, posted as a comp and then those who are entering can get them keys a tapping ;D
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 14, 2017, 07:43:53
QuoteI think most are all happy with a retro 320x200 virtual resolution and a 16 colour palette of your choice as a game theme. I love the idea and think it's gonna be a lot of fun especially on the creativity side of things.

I'm for:-

Theme:-

Anything, but christmassy would be nice.

Rules:-

320x200 virtual Resolution
16 colour palette of choice

Submission:-

23rd December (Midnight GMT)

Prize fund tier:-

1st : £200
2nd : £75
3rd : £25

That's me, and yes, I know I'm biting into the tier money there, but, £500 is a little bit too much IMO for such a short competition, and, the potential of not getting many entries is immense, due to it being the busiest time of year for people anyway... I think that's fair really!

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: therevills on November 14, 2017, 07:52:16
January 6th would suit me better, Christmas is a very busy time of the year! :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 14, 2017, 08:14:27
I'm game for the 6th then!

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Derron on November 14, 2017, 08:47:04
I would suggest that every entry must also submit 3-4 "work shots". So we see a picture/screenshot of how music was composed, or sketches were drawn or ...
Why? Just because I am interested in such "little details" of the game creation process. And we are here on a coder forum - so that fits well (I think).
Regarding Colors: ok so I understood "static 16 colors for the whole game (not per screen)". Right?


@ Theme:
Is "anti-christmas" = "not christmassy"?


@ Timeframe
If you are busy during christmas: the competition ends _before_ christmas ;-). I thought about the "Santa versus the magma dwarves" theme :)


@ music
as asked already: provide some tuts on how to efficiently create some "simple" music (fitting to the competition rules - "SID like").


bye
Ron
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 09:17:04
Quote
January 6th would suit me better, Christmas is a very busy time of the year! :)

I'm game for the 6th then!

I vote for January 6th too.

Prizes:

1st   £250
2nd  £150
3rd  £100

Retro game, any theme in 320 x 200 with a fixed palette of 16 colours.

Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 14, 2017, 10:30:56
320x240 wow this is really depressing :) 320x240 virtual will be a crazy blurred mess. Let's do 640x480 instead I mean i believe cards can still do fullscreen 640x480 - nice crispy image :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 14, 2017, 10:53:50
Quote from: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 09:17:04
Retro game, any theme in 320 x 200 with a fixed palette of 16 colours.

I love the 320x200 + limited palette idea, but I hope we're all willing to be a bit flexible on the "retro" requirement!? I'm definitely aiming for the C64 'look' in terms of palette and screen res (160x200 stretched to 320x200 for those double-width pixels), perhaps along with some fake CRT effects, and I intend to download some SID samples for the tune(s), but I suspect that the game mechanics & visuals would stretch a real C64 beyond its technical capabilities. If I do develop my idea into a game, complaints of "but a real C64 couldn't do that!" might be levelled at me  >:(

Anyway, I'll take the risk!  ;D
   
I would opt for the January 6th deadline, but I think I can get something finished by 23rd December if that's the one we go with.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 11:06:36
It doesn't have to be a C64 game.  It's just retro because of the 320 x 200 resolution and 16 colour palette.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Flanker on November 14, 2017, 14:40:30
After watching some C64 gameplay, I like the idea of 320x200 with 16 colors palette. Some tech demos are quite impressive compared to the Amstrad I grew up with.

I vote for the 23rd of december as a deadline, I prefer to work continously on the game rather than take the christmas/new year break, and have to remember what I did.

For the prize, if it's 500£, 250-150-100 split seems fair. How is it funded ? Maybe each participant could give a fixed amount to submit its game ?

And BTW, regarding the rules, do graphics and music have to be done by us ?
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: iWasAdam on November 14, 2017, 15:25:48
Got a palette, working on some graphics and also trying things out in the map editor...
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 14, 2017, 17:17:54
Quote320x240 wow this is really depressing :) 320x240 virtual will be a crazy blurred mess. Let's do 640x480 instead I mean i believe cards can still do fullscreen 640x480 - nice crispy image
Just turn off filtering so you don't get the blurred mess but nice big chunky pixels.

QuoteIf I do develop my idea into a game, complaints of "but a real C64 couldn't do that!" might be levelled at me
From what I can tell the comp is just a retro 320x200 virtual resolution with a 16 colour palette of your choice. Music and sound effects I guess should be in the retro vein. Also no one is going to be judging based on if a real retro computer could do the same thing.

QuoteAnd BTW, regarding the rules, do graphics and music have to be done by us ?
No one has said either way. I'm trying to push for a full comp outline but you lot debate more than a group of politicians :P
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 14, 2017, 17:19:31
Lets get a full comp outline sorted tonight so I can post it and then those entering can get on :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 14, 2017, 17:33:29
Quote
And BTW, regarding the rules, do graphics and music have to be done by us ?

I dont really do music, it's just another thing that grinds my goat, so I'd rather it be a choice personally! :)

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 14, 2017, 17:48:40
QuoteI dont really do music, it's just another thing that grinds my goat, so I'd rather it be a choice personally! :)
Based on previous comps I would set the rules as per below. But I'm not in charge so....

Theme :
Any game style using a retro virtual resolution of 320x200 and up to a 16 colour palette of your choice.

Rules :
1.. Must be all your own ( or teams ) work. I.E. no copyright media or available modified pre-built game templates.
2.. Game frameworks are allowed as are free / purchased media.
3.. Provide a Zip download with at least a Windows exe ( or link if an browser based game ). You can include other OS's too if you want.
4.. Syntaxbomb has zero rights to any work posted here. You / your team hold total control.
5.. Choice of language is totally up to you.
6.. All entries must be in by < this date > GMT.
7.. Your retro style game does not have to fall within the capabilities of retro hardware. If you want to do a full on 3D game in a 320x200 res with 16 colours, then good luck.
8.. Prize to the winners payable via PayPal only.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 17:48:54
Well if we're setting the palette, it goes without saying we're producing the graphics.  Music/sounds are more specialised I feel, so music/sound could be used from Internet sources.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Dabz on November 14, 2017, 18:02:20
Sounds good to moi... I'm for the 6th Jan...

LET US VOTE!!! \o/

1) 23rd December 2017
2) 6th January 2018

When the clock strikes midnight tonight (GMT, because, yeah, we're English and complete yorkshire puddings with anything else), we'll count who voted what, and clock up to see what is the most popular!

Like I said, I vote for number 2

Dabz
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 14, 2017, 18:33:03
I vote for Jan 6th 2018 too. I think most of us will of sobered up by then and returned to normal life :)

QuoteWhen the clock strikes midnight tonight (GMT, because, yeah, we're English and complete yorkshire puddings with anything else), we'll count who voted what, and clock up to see what is the most popular!
Yup. I don't do international time zoney stuff. I look at my clock and that's the time ;D

QuoteWell if we're setting the palette, it goes without saying we're producing the graphics.  Music/sounds are more specialised I feel, so music/sound could be used from Internet sources.
More than likely but it still gives scope for people to use free / bought media, resize, recolour etc. No copyright stuff though, so no grabbing sprites out of your favourite old retro game unless you have specific permission to do so. Plus none of that abandonware excuse either :P
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 18:33:24
Yeah, number 2.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: BasicBoy on November 14, 2017, 19:24:48
I like how my laptop's full-screen dimensions (1280x800) are in the exact same ratio as the 320x200 compo requirement  :)
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 14, 2017, 21:19:00
I vote for the date in Dec.
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: fairgood on November 14, 2017, 22:51:54
I vote for 6th jan as Christmas will be busy

What's the criteria for judging, Is it mostly gameplay ?
cos I'm crap at drawing and rubbish at music and come
to to think of it my programming skills aren't great either  :P

Gonna try out Bosca ceoil for sounds and music http://boscaceoil.net/
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 23:06:04
You supply a game, and the community votes for the game they liked the best.  The one with the highest number of votes - wins.  Simples.   ;D
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Qube on November 15, 2017, 04:07:42
Quote from: Steve Elliott on November 14, 2017, 23:06:04
You supply a game, and the community votes for the game they liked the best.  The one with the highest number of votes - wins.  Simples.   ;D
LOL! - I couldn't have put it better myself :P
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: muruba on November 15, 2017, 05:07:12
Quote from: Flanker on November 12, 2017, 16:28:43
Quote from: muruba on November 11, 2017, 13:18:37
It's 3d, isn't ?

http://www.squidi.net/threep/p083/

Thanks for sharing, I gave it a try, it's fairly simple and here is what I got so far with Blitzmax :
https://youtu.be/hi8vvoUKCOQ (https://youtu.be/hi8vvoUKCOQ)

I'd like to participate in the game competition, but not a fan of 320x200 graphics, it's more like a limitation than a inspiration to creativity.

Nice!!!
Title: Re: Next game competition ideas...
Post by: Flanker on November 17, 2017, 11:40:29
Quote from: muruba on November 15, 2017, 05:07:12
Nice!!!

Added in the code archive if you want to test: http://www.syntaxbomb.com/index.php/topic,3668.0.html