SyntaxBomb - Indie Coders

General Category => Worklogs => Topic started by: STEVIE G on September 15, 2019, 17:01:16

Title: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 15, 2019, 17:01:16
Basic premise is that you are the last Elite Pilot sent to a distant world to protect them from Alien Invaders.  You've got your Gunstar, unlimited bullets and some missiles.  The Invaders have the numbers and are trying to destroy what life remains on the planet.

Progress has been pretty good over the weekend.

* Random landscape generator built.  I wanted it to be simple so it didn't distract from the action.  There's still work to be done there with some foliage and buildings for variety.
* Designed and rendered 10 enemy ships.
* Implemented particle effects.
* Implemented mini map
* Implemented ship/Ship collisions.

Plan to work on the shooting and general gameplay next. 

A few recent screenshots..

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS2.png&hash=7fbadd79932f4bd010b7ecf8df55322096cb9743)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS3.png&hash=d2df9d7c85be0c01c3ebda82cc04028316f34d36)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS4.png&hash=451715bc1822c2238a6c918dc7458e6c387dc06a)


 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on September 15, 2019, 18:55:21
Particle overload!  Marvellous.    :D

Quote
There's still work to be done there with some foliage and buildings for variety.

That would really bring it to life.  Looks good so far.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Santiago on September 16, 2019, 22:49:56
Nice!!!!!! i allways love your style!!! , i wan to try it!!!! :)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Qube on September 17, 2019, 01:16:54
Liking the look of this, always loved chunky pixel art work which you are great at.

Particle shadows too :o - Now that's just totally over the top ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on September 17, 2019, 06:58:14
Stevie chucks down the old indie coding gauntlet and everyone's thinking about raising their games..... Again. Great stuff so far
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 17, 2019, 07:25:40
Added some buildings and trees etc... to break up the landscape.  It's mean't to be a Mars Colony so a bit of work required.

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS5.png&hash=0577c1c965fea57557073cf29ee5f8ef6ace28b0)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS6.png&hash=6a55bce0452ad036a8561c96bd37d13b4419e1df)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: GaborD on September 17, 2019, 09:51:00
Looks fantastic!
Really really good stuff, love how much you get out of a few pixels.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on September 17, 2019, 10:10:53
Looks great, and I'm sure even better when you see everything moving.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 20, 2019, 07:27:24
Triple shot powerup and new enemy ship ... the Attractor (drains energy and pulls you in).  I'm thinking gameplay similar to Zarch but in 2d.

Also, testing out offscreen enemy indicators at the edge of the screen, rather than a scanner.  Not 100% sure yet.

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS10.png&hash=8c67219308b91284e8a6c77e7195fcef7890abe0)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FUntitled%2FRS7.png&hash=c5ecff9a4d45890b00297f7b4d23618565d6cff8)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 22, 2019, 16:47:02
Finished all the enemies now.  Meet the Generator (launches enemy ships), the Repulsor (can fire in any direction)  and the Mothership (refuels and repairs you).

I've decided to stick with a small radar (top left) and I'll add other GUI info in the corners where require.

I think I've done enough on the background graphics for now.  May add a few more things nearer deadline if I have time.  On to the gameplay now.  Explosions must be spectacular!

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS13.png&hash=9ccc03c453009253ad551aab053e75f43f773f52)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS12.png&hash=1a2f1add91c6e8f4a8107bb716680deea3eca852)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS11.png&hash=791659845864b5c6c1ec58e2d3f39322186a5670)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS14.png&hash=cbf7d6f1a06b6c5ba894dad199865087742f51d2)

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on September 22, 2019, 20:13:22
do not forget to add some purple rabbits jumping around (in other words: alien animals .. ;D).


Looking good - albeit the "earth tone" for Martian aliens is a bit of a ..cliché ;D


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on September 22, 2019, 22:17:48
Just the attention to detail in your Radar gets my vote  8) Attempted a Radar thing a while ago - its fair to say it eluded mr pretty well  ;)

How about incorporating a tornado - TTL style (old spectrum game) ..... sorry for the random request, Couldn't help myself! Seems a little less relevant seeing as Typhoons have replace them! 

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on September 23, 2019, 06:56:34
Some "dune"-esque worms could be some dangerous "static location"-enemy.


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 24, 2019, 18:47:03
Quote from: Derron on September 23, 2019, 06:56:34
Some "dune"-esque worms could be some dangerous "static location"-enemy.


bye
Ron

Great idea - will leave that to closer to deadline ... maybe they jump out of these holes and attack your ship if it comes close (like the space worm in Empire Strikes Back)  ;D

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS15.png&hash=2b2989514ddf65712279ee62c19a195c7e1d124b)


Quote from: 3DzForMe on September 22, 2019, 22:17:48
Just the attention to detail in your Radar gets my vote  8) Attempted a Radar thing a while ago - its fair to say it eluded mr pretty well  ;)

How about incorporating a tornado - TTL style (old spectrum game) ..... sorry for the random request, Couldn't help myself! Seems a little less relevant seeing as Typhoons have replace them! 



The circular radar is pretty simple, the older offscreen one was a little more tricky with a little bit of linear algebra but give me a shout if you need some tips in the future.
The main ship is very like a Tornado minus the tail and took a while to get it the way I wanted so no plans to change anything.    ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on September 25, 2019, 07:04:53
I love the trailing smoke from the after burners - pixel art in stills, looking forward to playing on my big telly ;) ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on September 29, 2019, 13:43:14
Spectacular explosions (Pixel fest + screen shake) are in ... it's now pretty satisfying to blow things up. 
Added life bars to all the ships and smoke bellows out if they are under 25%.
Added points for killing different ships and points off for missed shots (encourages accuracy).

Had a decent paytest with a friend which highlighted a few things that weren't quite up to scratch:

* You can now see more of the screen in the direction you are pointing + the direction you are traveling.
* Reduced momentum and increased thrust power - handling is much better now.
* Added mouse control which is great fun ... ship turns to face the cursor, left button thrusts and right shoots.  Think 'Zarch' but without the pitching. Can add similar for analog controller at some stage but keyboard is still there.
* Added a few sound effects.
* Stole the text functionality from Vanarchy and fonts.  May change these if I get time.

The obligatory recent screenshots ...

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS16.png&hash=24a8fd4b9b61a46a1c84edd7a0a21394d8e60bcc)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS17.png&hash=768fe0b5dc1d073e602dea43727dbad6de9090e8)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS18.png&hash=f97364aeca83ff8e11c2389f540b981207511d5a)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on September 29, 2019, 13:56:22
looks lush and very tasty!  :o
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Xerra on September 29, 2019, 20:45:20
Come on, Steve. Lets have a preview video. See it in action :)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on September 29, 2019, 20:59:13
Looks awesome  8)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Qube on September 29, 2019, 21:04:44
Looks really good fun and great work on the chunky pixel work :) - I see you've nicked my quote from ExBiEn :P *cough*
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 01, 2019, 20:49:38
Quote from: Xerra on September 29, 2019, 20:45:20
Come on, Steve. Lets have a preview video. See it in action :)

Nah, made that mistake before.  Youtube always seems to make 60+ fps video's seem choppy.

Quote from: Qube on September 29, 2019, 21:04:44
Looks really good fun and great work on the chunky pixel work :) - I see you've nicked my quote from ExBiEn :P *cough*

Ah, that's where I last saw it again ;D  It's only a test so it will change at some point. 


Wanted the background to feel more alive so added some ripple particles to the water standing stones and a few animation frames for the trees and bushes.  Not 100% sure about the later so might not make it in the final build.

Been working on the AI mostly - my favourite part other than the lowres graphics of course.  The enemies are far too good now so need to work on dumbing them down otherwise you won't last 2 minutes.   I'll need to stop watching them battle it out or I'll never get this done.  ;D

The Gunstar and a few battle weary Allies gang up on an enemy Generator ...

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS19.png&hash=8045ff43611d1c6c49c8709421f99602bf20e5ad)

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 02, 2019, 06:22:11
Water ripples: yes! good idea!

AI: maybe dumber AI players do less often redecide on what to do next / where to move next. Means they move longer in the direction they decided some time ago instead of reacting to target ship position changes right in the moment of the change. Give them a different "reaction time".

Also AI could contain some kind of "frightened"-level or "stupid bravity". It defines how aggressive a AI ship goes into battles regardless of how big the chances are to finish the battle as winner.


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 06, 2019, 19:53:49
Quote from: Xerra on September 29, 2019, 20:45:20
Come on, Steve. Lets have a preview video. See it in action :)

Here's an AI stress test recorded at 640x360 and 60fps.  Not as smooth as reality but gives an idea of gameplay.

.. and yes, the ducks quack when you hit them  ;D


Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 06, 2019, 20:22:14
what is the reason for this pinkish "fountain" the circulating spaceships spit out into the air from their center? Is it some kind of "we need to pollute the planet to make it a comfortable living area for our species" thing?

Just think the whole thing might be a bit "particle overkill" already.


@ ducks
They look a bit "thick" because of their wings' vertical pixel amount (think this is because of the camera angle?).


Aside of the particle overkill it looks like some enjoyable frenzy ;)


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 06, 2019, 20:27:57
QuoteJust think the whole thing might be a bit "particle overkill" already.

Nope, I think its a visual feast and makes you struggle (only a little) to keep up your spatial awareness. I likes it - a lot! As ever, Mr G's work has me transfixed, relishing playing it ;)

QuoteAside of the particle overkill it looks like some enjoyable frenzy ;)

Vote +1  ^-^ ^-^

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 06, 2019, 20:58:07
Quote from: Derron on October 06, 2019, 20:22:14
what is the reason for this pinkish "fountain" the circulating spaceships spit out into the air from their center? Is it some kind of "we need to pollute the planet to make it a comfortable living area for our species" thing?

Just think the whole thing might be a bit "particle overkill" already.


@ ducks
They look a bit "thick" because of their wings' vertical pixel amount (think this is because of the camera angle?).


Aside of the particle overkill it looks like some enjoyable frenzy ;)


bye
Ron

Yip, polluting the planet to kill the existing species and their germs.

The duck is chunky but it's a space duck and that's what they look like.  :P

It is a bit of a particle fest but that was the plan.  I like particles.

Quote from: 3DzForMe on October 06, 2019, 20:27:57
QuoteJust think the whole thing might be a bit "particle overkill" already.

Nope, I think its a visual feast and makes you struggle (only a little) to keep up your spatial awareness. I likes it - a lot! As ever, Mr G's work has me transfixed, relishing playing it ;)

QuoteAside of the particle overkill it looks like some enjoyable frenzy ;)

Vote +1  ^-^ ^-^



Cheers!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: chalky on October 06, 2019, 21:09:17
Looks absolutely incredible - loving the particles - brilliant work!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 07, 2019, 06:00:46
SPAAACE DUUUCK! ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 07, 2019, 07:39:39
Quote
It is a bit of a particle fest but that was the plan.  I like particles.

I never would have guessed  ;)  Me too.  It definitely has a Zarch-look, but also reminds me of a Jeff minter game regards the over-the-top visuals (which overwhelm at first, until you get used to them).  So you must also add an appropriate sound track to match the fast gameplay and particle mayhem.  The water particle effects are a really nice touch.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Coder Apprentice on October 07, 2019, 07:59:45
This looks awesome! Please make this a commercial product after the compo. After buying POLYMANIACS I would be happy to be your customer again. Take my money Stevie!

:D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 07, 2019, 11:52:21
Quote
Please make this a commercial product after the compo. After buying POLYMANIACS I would be happy to be your customer again.

Good idea.  However I did notice you only accept Paypal Stevie, is it a hassle to set-up Pay by Card?  I ask because I've let my Paypal Account die and only use Pay by Card for online software these days.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 14, 2019, 13:43:17
With the deadline fast approaching I've got the gameplay as far as I can take it.  Plan to add loads of other ideas post comp.

A few new enemies in, the Turret (mounted on plinths with dual barrels) the Destroyer (fires lasers and missiles), the Manufacturer (launches all manner of ships), the Bloomer (spits mines at you) and Asteroids (can be broken apart and used as cover ).

I've got music and effects in which seem to fit quite nice.  Managed to get a pack of loopable spaceship sounds for $1 - enough decent ones for my purposes   ;D

The landscapes become more corrupted as the waves progress (see below).

Added very subtle/see through outlines to all the flying objects to make them stand out from the background a little.

I also got a bit carried away with particles - the ducks even drop a crap now and again which can splash the water below.  Amused me  :))

The main part left to do is the menu's but I'll keep it simple with just PLAY, OPTIONS, HOW TO PLAY and TOP GUNS and maybe difficulty options.

One final teaser (the last level)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS23.png&hash=a8042fe24a1ee0480a9c004ad86a2acf2eb80b99)

Caption Comp ....

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS20.png&hash=4cc74e6f802d558f879578c3a81976e427e1c1f6)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 14, 2019, 13:46:17
Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 07, 2019, 11:52:21
Quote
Please make this a commercial product after the compo. After buying POLYMANIACS I would be happy to be your customer again.

Good idea.  However I did notice you only accept Paypal Stevie, is it a hassle to set-up Pay by Card?  I ask because I've let my Paypal Account die and only use Pay by Card for online software these days.

I think I'll do a hidden URL for the comp and try to punt it for a few quid once the final game is done.  Doubt I'll retire but worth a shot.  There are card options to will look into.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 14, 2019, 20:21:06
Fun fact for those who don't know, Stevie calling this a 2D Zarch/Virus.  He also wrote a 3D Zarch/Virus game called Z-Virus in Blitz3D.   :D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: RemiD on October 14, 2019, 20:21:38
the gameplay looks fast and fun, i like that, and also lot of particles, very nice.

i have noticed what you did with the fake shadows (projected only on the terrain layer) ;)

is it pure 2d ? (2d space and images) or 3d ? (3d space and meshes/textures)

if it is pure 2d, i have no idea how to reproduce that... ???
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 14, 2019, 20:37:53
Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 14, 2019, 20:21:06
Fun fact for those who don't know, Stevie calling this a 2D Zarch/Virus.  He also wrote a 3D Zarch/Virus game called Z-Virus in Blitz3D.   :D

That was the first thing I did in Blitz in 2002!!  :o   I think this is better but the proof is in the pudding.

Quote from: RemiD on October 14, 2019, 20:21:38
the gameplay looks fast and fun, i like that, and also lot of particles, very nice.

i have noticed what you did with the fake shadows (projected only on the terrain layer) ;)

is it pure 2d ? (2d space and images) or 3d ? (3d space and meshes/textures)

if it is pure 2d, i have no idea how to reproduce that... ???


This is 2d in 3d.  All the graphics were built as models from primitives, vertex coloured, fake lit and stored in textures (32 rotations for most ships).  This makes shadows pretty easy as I just create a shadow version of each using the same model, coloring it just off white and moving the vertices based on heights, then store the shadow version in another texture. 

There was not a chance I'd be creating all the pixel art by hand  ;D


The beauty of using 2d in 3d is that you can set the render depth using the z coord so the GFX card takes care of z ordering and no need for manual depth sorting. 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 14, 2019, 21:35:57
(https://i.imgur.com/uUqzmPI.png)

You promised some poop - so tell, which of the pixels it it!


Looks good - I just wonder in which compo you will experient with a different visual style/look (unknown terrain you know? ;D). Don't want to say that it does not look stunning (see begin of the paragraph) - just want to motivate you to improve/try things out. Think that vertex-color approach could be used for different visual styles too - did you try (next to polymaniacs)?


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 14, 2019, 22:05:08
Quote from: Derron on October 14, 2019, 21:35:57
(https://i.imgur.com/uUqzmPI.png)

You promised some poop - so tell, which of the pixels it it!


Looks good - I just wonder in which compo you will experient with a different visual style/look (unknown terrain you know? ;D). Don't want to say that it does not look stunning (see begin of the paragraph) - just want to motivate you to improve/try things out. Think that vertex-color approach could be used for different visual styles too - did you try (next to polymaniacs)?


bye
Ron

Sounds like you're suggesting that I'm taking the easy route with the low res design or that I don't know anything else now?  I can assure you that while the assets are low res I've spent around half the comp time designing and rendering them - it was a lot of work.  I'd like to think it is my style now but it has evolved/improved since Van Tourisimo (which was entirely 2d).  2d in 3d is still relatively new to me and a dig from the infamous Derron isn't going to put me off I'm afraid.  It's a Retro Shooter.

That said, I'm more than capable of try different styles and if future comps give me that opportunity then that's what I'll do.

No poop in that picture, see below - the small green pixels ...

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGSsh.png&hash=21aed70d225762a4fd930e31433514d5968a57bc)




Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 15, 2019, 07:06:08
Just wanted to nag you to try a different "style" the next time. I am sure the resulting game would still look fantastic ...
I am just talking about the looks ... Not of the code you write for the gameplay or how many days you spent for asset creation (these is the big part in all of our games I think).

Maybe the next compo will require you to adopt your skills to something as your currently favoured look is then not feasible. I am also not keen to do so but hey, I created a pixel game while I prefer vectors or renderings these days.

So please do not get me wrong. Do what you like as the results are most probably stunning nontheless. Just want to make you leave your comfort zone of known lands ;-)

Of course this should not affect this compo game here. People will enjoy the frenzyness regardless of the visual approach.


Edit: Would you mind posting some WIP-shots of the 3d-models in their natural habitat (the 3DCC tool) ?


PS: What happens if a duck crosses the flight curve of a space ship? Who wins?


Bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 08:55:40
Quote from: Derron on October 15, 2019, 07:06:08
Just wanted to nag you to try a different "style" the next time. I am sure the resulting game would still look fantastic ...
I am just talking about the looks ... Not of the code you write for the gameplay or how many days you spent for asset creation (these is the big part in all of our games I think).

Maybe the next compo will require you to adopt your skills to something as your currently favoured look is then not feasible. I am also not keen to do so but hey, I created a pixel game while I prefer vectors or renderings these days.

So please do not get me wrong. Do what you like as the results are most probably stunning nontheless. Just want to make you leave your comfort zone of known lands ;-)

Of course this should not affect this compo game here. People will enjoy the frenzyness regardless of the visual approach.


Edit: Would you mind posting some WIP-shots of the 3d-models in their natural habitat (the 3DCC tool) ?


PS: What happens if a duck crosses the flight curve of a space ship? Who wins?


Bye
Ron

The duck always loses no matter what it hits or what hit's it (see video) ;D

All models are created in code, not using a modeller but here are a few screenshots of the models in all their low poly glory (scaled x 5), the final shot is the scale used in game.  The final render also is from overhead but with extrusion on the z-axis based on the vertex height.  I find that this skewed view looks best in low res. 

The Gunstar
(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS3D01.png&hash=eea856c380b91d3c2157d553cb751e6db3f0b4e8)

The Destroyer
(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS3D02.png&hash=e6f03d62b03363377f8901e2e69fd136b3b8c875)

The Bloomer
(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS3D03.png&hash=7a9c04daba64ded8bf6a70eec986c9eea59f1944)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS3D04.png&hash=bf493f7ef3899c39ba6eae311092a7269d70f7d2)

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: RemiD on October 15, 2019, 10:30:38
@StevieG >> your graphics style is unique and uniform, this is a good thing imo, nowadays many games seem to be made of stuff from the unity assets store or unreal assets store...
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 15, 2019, 11:14:17
Why "in code" rather than using some polygon-modeller? Especially leaving out "wysiwyg" would be a problem for me (not imaginative but "productiveness-wise").
Do the tools not offer the features/functionality you need?


@ shots
Thanks .. of course I prefer the unscaled result at the end - these "magnified" once remind me too much to the attempts of 3D games in the early 90s (low poly, untextured - jaggy lines) :)
Pixel-game-size is forgiving.

bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 12:21:23
Quote from: Derron on October 15, 2019, 11:14:17
Why "in code" rather than using some polygon-modeller? Especially leaving out "wysiwyg" would be a problem for me (not imaginative but "productiveness-wise").
Do the tools not offer the features/functionality you need?


@ shots
Thanks .. of course I prefer the unscaled result at the end - these "magnified" once remind me too much to the attempts of 3D games in the early 90s (low poly, untextured - jaggy lines) :)
Pixel-game-size is forgiving.

bye
Ron

To be honest I've never used a modeller.  I don't really have the time to start learning these things.  I've gotten so used to manipulating primitives in code and created loads of functions for culling/combining/lighting and what not that this will be quicker.  When you also consider the jiggery-pokery that goes on to get the final render and shadows etc... this pipeline would be much less painful imo. 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 15, 2019, 14:09:14
Got to say Stevie, I'm really looking forward to this :)

I'm super interested in the mechanisms you are explaining for how you did it all.
As a quick test I knocked this up:
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/screenshot-2019-10-15-at-14.01.58.png) - about 10 mins work

What I found interesting is my vertex and poly count is about a quarter smaller than yours.
I do have a highly optimised lowpoly editor though  :-X
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 15, 2019, 15:32:17
The rendering could still be done in your engine - you just need to load the 3d vertex data (.obj, .x, ...) and then render it out.

Of course you could also fiddle out how it all works in your 3DCC and write a script doing all this (rendering shadow layers, camera rotation, ...) but this is a hassle not everyone likes. But once you did it, it becomes just a matter of executing a script to get a new spritesheet of your current model.
Maybe your workflow is more streamlined - as centric to your visual style - but if you want a more generic approach with especially more detailled objects the use of a modeller will speed up things at the end.

And even if you still favor the "coding approach" - where do you design the prototype / basic shape idea? only in your mind? 


@ Adam
I see six objects mirrored on the x-axis:
- create the right sided 6 cubes (the one behind the cockpit I would keep a qube)
- mirror it
- delete center vertices
Thanks to mirror modifier you can more easily adjust form and shape - and do not have to do all steps twice for the wings. Another mirror modifier and you can create these mother ships etc.

Stuff would become nasty if it all must be a single mesh object.



Seems we all have our favour approaches to things ;)




bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 15:33:06
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 15, 2019, 14:09:14
Got to say Stevie, I'm really looking forward to this :)

I'm super interested in the mechanisms you are explaining for how you did it all.
As a quick test I knocked this up:
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/screenshot-2019-10-15-at-14.01.58.png) - about 10 mins work

What I found interesting is my vertex and poly count is about a quarter smaller than yours.
I do have a highly optimised lowpoly editor though  :-X

Haha - excellent - not quite correct on the cockpit but close enough.  Took me about 1/2 day to get the main ship looking good when rendered in low res. 

The reason for you having less poly's will be that I don't cull unseen polys (under the cockpit for example) as they make no difference to the finished render for the Gunstar - it's just a pile of cubes really.  I have to cull for some other models to avoid unwanted artifacts.

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 15:38:44
Quote from: Derron on October 15, 2019, 15:32:17
The rendering could still be done in your engine - you just need to load the 3d vertex data (.obj, .x, ...) and then render it out.

Of course you could also fiddle out how it all works in your 3DCC and write a script doing all this (rendering shadow layers, camera rotation, ...) but this is a hassle not everyone likes. But once you did it, it becomes just a matter of executing a script to get a new spritesheet of your current model.
Maybe your workflow is more streamlined - as centric to your visual style - but if you want a more generic approach with especially more detailled objects the use of a modeller will speed up things at the end.

And even if you still favor the "coding approach" - where do you design the prototype / basic shape idea? only in your mind? 


@ Adam
I see six objects mirrored on the x-axis:
- create the right sided 6 cubes (the one behind the cockpit I would keep a qube)
- mirror it
- delete center vertices
Thanks to mirror modifier you can more easily adjust form and shape - and do not have to do all steps twice for the wings. Another mirror modifier and you can create these mother ships etc.

Stuff would become nasty if it all must be a single mesh object.



Seems we all have our favour approaches to things ;)




bye
Ron

I think I'll stick to what I'm doing as it works for me.  I generally have an idea in my mind and can quickly put it together in a way that will look good in a low res render. 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 18:53:22
Had another idea for another enemy and couldn't resist getting it in ... meet the Spinner.  It has multiple spinning sawing blades that cut through Gunstars like a knife through butter  :P

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS24.png&hash=6810ac96632f734d636c9dba6b71f46f08c67f13)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 15, 2019, 19:22:06
Sandworms are in already?

Dust storms (particle frenzy!!) could make it hard to identify enemy ships approaching - but it could help to hide from enemies too.

The "Pollution ship" could have a "water soaker" compagnon which stops over water and soaks some of it up.


@ screenshot
Tower element right top of the "star ship" (spinner) looks a bit as if the bottom is "cut". Think it is because it is too narrow to justify an additional row of 2 pixels in the bottom center to make it look "round". Maybe it is as quad-shaped as the top of the tower.


Particle mayhem incoming.


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 20:11:45
Quote from: Derron on October 15, 2019, 19:22:06
Sandworms are in already?

Dust storms (particle frenzy!!) could make it hard to identify enemy ships approaching - but it could help to hide from enemies too.

The "Pollution ship" could have a "water soaker" compagnon which stops over water and soaks some of it up.


@ screenshot
Tower element right top of the "star ship" (spinner) looks a bit as if the bottom is "cut". Think it is because it is too narrow to justify an additional row of 2 pixels in the bottom center to make it look "round". Maybe it is as quad-shaped as the top of the tower.


Particle mayhem incoming.


bye
Ron

I like the idea of the ship extracting the water although it would be too much overhead to actually recede the water - probably just (another) particle effect  ;D
Thought about how I would do the Sandworm so will add if I have time - want it to eat the birds if they stray too close to it's crater home and attack your ship too. 
I did think about sandstorms - maybe some tornado's which can cause a bit of mayhem.

Menu's are almost in (just need a main splash screen) so may have some time at the weekend so do some of this, otherwise post comp.

Keep the idea's coming!

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 16, 2019, 04:49:05
Quote from: STEVIE G on October 15, 2019, 15:33:06
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 15, 2019, 14:09:14
Got to say Stevie, I'm really looking forward to this :)

I'm super interested in the mechanisms you are explaining for how you did it all.
As a quick test I knocked this up:
(https://vjointeractive.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/screenshot-2019-10-15-at-14.01.58.png) - about 10 mins work

What I found interesting is my vertex and poly count is about a quarter smaller than yours.
I do have a highly optimised lowpoly editor though  :-X

Haha - excellent - not quite correct on the cockpit but close enough.  Took me about 1/2 day to get the main ship looking good when rendered in low res.  .....

Also looking forward to this - more so than finishing my own little western at the mo;) ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 18, 2019, 15:29:02
Got my menu's working  ;D

I wanted it to be fancier - especially the title but the minimalist look is kinda sci-fi esque and I can't spend any more time on it.  Yes I know it's almost the same as Vanarchy but hey-ho!
I am pretty pleased with the scene at the top.  It took a couple of hours and has 128 frames of animation as it rotates around ... not perfect but might revisit after the comp.  You can see 3 x Gunstars + the dropship, trees and buildings as it slowly spins.

Now I just need to finish off another 20 waves and do some testing so should make the deadline .... I think.

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_MENU.png&hash=623f5a2095150233703bb2e7ede19bb0abe8e0a1)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_MENU2.png&hash=870a35782ca767317ac256bf7ee09c6fc6fc76ac)

EDIT .. now with 256 frames and a bit more detail ..

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 18, 2019, 17:05:04
Nice colour tones and I like the rotation idea, perhaps some twinking/shooting stars?
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Coder Apprentice on October 18, 2019, 19:52:30
Gevie Stee! Looks awesome! As I said before I hope this will evolve into a commercial game. By the way is this a Blitz3D project? I can't see you mentioned anywhere what tool you're using this time around.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 18, 2019, 20:11:13
Quote from: Kris on October 18, 2019, 19:52:30
Gevie Stee! Looks awesome! As I said before I hope this will evolve into a commercial game. By the way is this a Blitz3D project? I can't see you mentioned anywhere what tool you're using this time around.

Yip, still good old B3D.  ;D Depending on the feedback I get from whoever plays it - I might try to sell

Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 18, 2019, 17:05:04
Nice colour tones and I like the rotation idea, perhaps some twinking/shooting stars?
with a load of other features and enhancements.   

I tried putting in some star particles blinking on and off but didn't look good.  Did anyone notice the car parked beside the Dropship ... stolen from Vanarchy  ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Qube on October 18, 2019, 20:15:27
He he, love the spinning scene at the top of the menu, nice touch ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: GaborD on October 18, 2019, 20:57:53
Haha yep, agree to that!

Looks great!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 19, 2019, 07:34:37
Love the rotating scene on loading menu, most awesome stuff sir Stevie  :o ;D ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Xerra on October 19, 2019, 10:36:20
Fuck, that rotation thing is well clever. How did you do the 128 frame sprite? Actual manual editing or some clever conversion process?

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 19, 2019, 10:58:59
Quote from: Xerra on October 19, 2019, 10:36:20
Fuck, that rotation thing is well clever. How did you do the 128 frame sprite? Actual manual editing or some clever conversion process?

Manual editing ... behave  ;)    I'm sticking with the 256 frames as it's smoother.

It was actually very easy and turned out exactly as I'd hoped. Here's the process:

* I create one large 2048x1024 texture to contain 256 individual frames of 256x32. 
* The base scene is just a cylinder 128x2x128 units.
* The various models were just placed and combined to form one scene mesh.
* The scene mesh was then re-coloured to be greyscale.  I darkened it and added fake lighting in the cyan colour.
* To get the final frames I just rotate the final scene mesh for 256 frames, render it in 3D and copyrect to the final texture.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 20, 2019, 10:20:37
Almost there .... now have 6 zones for 30 waves.  A little bit of testing to be finished then I'm done  ;D

Updated the menu title - it's a bit better I think.
Might even have time to add a new enemy in there .. we'll see.

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_MENU4.png&hash=77ab4195bdeeedabe1f7619ae61606c6c9591f0d)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 20, 2019, 19:11:58
Yeah menu is better - it needed more than just a black background.  I suggested animated stars, but colour is also an option (as you went with).

'Gunstar' name is kinda large and over-powering though.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 20, 2019, 19:40:32
I think the title raises memories from 80s arcade games ... or maybe even early 90s.

Maybe you need to be "top notch" to survive. And "Top Gun" might be already taken :)



bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 20, 2019, 20:05:34
That's me done ... hopefully no major bugs.  ;D

All feedback welcome.

Link
https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k (https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k)

A couple of final screenshots...

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_MENU5.png&hash=7491e698284dc9e4ff64bd218ff9024b187f6093)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS25.png&hash=1f8db935505907446686e514960f017e69553df6)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS26.png&hash=591fd9d72a64bb2bcb1041f6f2bb0bcef1657547)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 20, 2019, 21:27:13
Quote
I think the title raises memories from 80s arcade games ... or maybe even early 90s.

The title looks 80's, the game looks 90's - that's my problem with it...Game looks amazing though!   :o
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 08:26:19
Steve what are the min specs for the game?
Win 7 and Win 10 + surface are giving me memory errors. I can run the game to the main screen, but no to the actual game - look brill so far though :)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 08:34:23
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 08:26:19
Steve what are the min specs for the game?
Win 7 and Win 10 + surface are giving me memory errors. I can run the game to the main screen, but no to the actual game - look brill so far though :)

Strange, Mr Strange.  You get a memory access error when you start a game from the main menu?  Does the screen fade or is it immediate? 

You should be able to run it on any win o/s.  I've got the worst GFX card here (GT710) and have no issues.  Did you have any issues with Vanarchy or any of my other entries?
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 08:54:04
Main menu with full sound comes up. When I click how to play or play it didn't fade just went to black (Miss Winehouse)
Options works fine.

Erm. can't remember, but I did play vanarchy so can't think what's going on.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: chalky on October 21, 2019, 08:57:24
Brilliant game (runs fine here on Windows 10 [1903]) - though I'm totally pants at playing it using the mouse (it doesn't seem to store 'Default Control' setting in the INI file - I have to change it from 'Mouse' to 'Keyboard' each time I launch the program).  :D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 21, 2019, 09:31:48
Works fine here, splattering ducks is strangely gratifying.... ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Derron on October 21, 2019, 09:38:24
Works on HP Elitebook Windows 10 - so I5 with intel IGP.
During startup windows played the sound of newly attached hardware.

Linux + Wine gave an EAV, think that is a Blitz3D-Wine-thing, no worries - this is what we have the native OS install for :).

To narrow it down what happens on Adams computer: maybe you could write a .log file stating what is loaded now, what is tried to get played now ... so maybe some file case issue (dunno how DualBoot or what Adam uses on his Mac requires). Might be the reason for Wine to fail too (seeing you use Uppercase in your filenames - which on case sensitive file systems matters).


bye
Ron
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 12:53:47
The surface is a MS product with win10 on it. 2gb ram (I think) and smallish screen.
Wont even run - just get a complete black screen with nothing and freezes the system!

The win7 and win10 are both VMWare hosts

win7 will load, run main menu, change options, goto start level. When the level is clicked it fades then goes black and 'Memory access violation" dialog appears.
If it is running fullscreen then this prangs the system!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 13:03:10
No problems running here.  I'm enjoying playing this.   8)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 13:28:33
...I don't know why ducks need to be powered up by the Dropship though!  :))
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 21, 2019, 16:13:27
Blitz3D sonetimes needsa gfx  card
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 17:06:33
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 08:54:04
Main menu with full sound comes up. When I click how to play or play it didn't fade just went to black (Miss Winehouse)
Options works fine.

Erm. can't remember, but I did play vanarchy so can't think what's going on.

Cheers.  It might be a case sensitive file issue Derron mentions as on start it loads the zone data.  I'll look into it and report back and worst case add a log.

Quote from: chalky on October 21, 2019, 08:57:24
Brilliant game (runs fine here on Windows 10 [1903]) - though I'm totally pants at playing it using the mouse (it doesn't seem to store 'Default Control' setting in the INI file - I have to change it from 'Mouse' to 'Keyboard' each time I launch the program).  :D

I'll get that sorted - I think it count as a bug .. although not a showstopper.

Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 13:28:33
...I don't know why ducks need to be powered up by the Dropship though!  :))

The dropship's green beam just pushes anything other than the Gunstar away - only the blue gives power.  ;)   I was going to get it to ignore the duck but liked how daft it looked.

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 17:28:47
Quote
...I don't know why ducks need to be powered up by the Dropship though!  :))

...only the blue gives power.  ;)   I was going to get it to ignore the duck but liked how daft it looked.

lol so a feature not a bug.   :D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 17:58:45
Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 17:28:47
Quote
...I don't know why ducks need to be powered up by the Dropship though!  :))

...only the blue gives power.  ;)   I was going to get it to ignore the duck but liked how daft it looked.

lol so a feature not a bug.   :D

Indeed.  I wasn't sure about the difficulty so curious to know how far you got?

Quote from: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 17:06:33
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 08:54:04
Main menu with full sound comes up. When I click how to play or play it didn't fade just went to black (Miss Winehouse)
Options works fine.

Erm. can't remember, but I did play vanarchy so can't think what's going on.

Cheers.  It might be a case sensitive file issue Derron mentions as on start it loads the zone data.  I'll look into it and report back and worst case add a log.


There's nothing wrong with the texture, data, sound and music filenames I'm afraid - they all match the names I use in the code.
Sounds like something is going wrong in the GAMEreset function as that's where the post menu fade out happens.  Shame you can't create an .exe with debug on.  I'll see about writing some form of log and report back.

Cheers
Stevie 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 19:23:42
@ Mr Strange,

I've uploaded a GUNSTAR_LOG.exe in the same location as the original link.  If you download and dump into the same folder as the original and run this instead ... a log will be created in the Data folder.

Can you e-mail me this log file please .... stevie@steviegoodwin.plus.com

Cheers,
Stevie
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 20:08:18
No probs, you'll get it first thing tomorrow  ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 20:12:13
Quote from: iWasAdam on October 21, 2019, 20:08:18
No probs, you'll get it first thing tomorrow  ;D

Cheers
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 20:28:08
Quote
I wasn't sure about the difficulty so curious to know how far you got?

So far my best is Wave 9 with a score of 54,350.  Difficulty seems spot on to me, as it gradually gets more challenging.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 21, 2019, 20:41:48
Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 20:28:08
Quote
I wasn't sure about the difficulty so curious to know how far you got?

So far my best is Wave 9 with a score of 54,350.  Difficulty seems spot on to me, as it gradually gets more challenging.

Excellent - the first appearance of the Generator!  I'm guessing Wave 8 with all the fighters did a bit of damage to the old lives  ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 21, 2019, 20:50:27
Quote
Excellent - the first appearance of the Generator!

Yes, but I didn't last very long on that level lol.

Quote
I'm guessing Wave 8 with all the fighters did a bit of damage to the old lives  ;D

Haha yes, when AI gangs-up on you like that I thought, hmm like that is it from now on?!  I'll have to recharge more often/powerup and be more cautious then.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on October 22, 2019, 06:12:26
Sorted log on its way  8)

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 22, 2019, 12:08:29
@Stevie, Wave 16 and a score of 144, 800

Time to play the other games some more now.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Xerra on October 22, 2019, 17:07:16
All you guys with your high scores crowing about what level you got to. I just started the game, picked level 17, and then got two big ships basically park right on top of me. But it's still a higher level than you guys, right? Right? :-)

In all seriousness, game runs on my machine via parallels but it's not doing it justice with the crappy setup I have for that at the moment. As Basicboy was very specific about trying his game out properly on a genuine machine due to the speed - and it gives a division by zero error anyway when tested on parallels, i'm going to hold till the weekend and run all the PC only games on my Windows laptop just to make sure. I did play a bit of Gunstar already but I'd like to test it out properly.

I can test Adam and Matty's games out during the week, however.

Still waiting to play the expected buggy boy remake, though <glares at Qube> !!!!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 22, 2019, 17:17:31
Quote from: Steve Elliott on October 22, 2019, 12:08:29
@Stevie, Wave 16 and a score of 144, 800

Time to play the other games some more now.

Impressive!
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 17:24:21
Quote from: Xerra on October 22, 2019, 17:07:16As Basicboy was very specific about trying his game out properly on a genuine machine due to the speed - and it gives a division by zero error anyway when tested on parallels

Ooh.. interesting. I wonder what's causing that. If you have the time, would you mind running a 'diagnostic' version of Tyoob?

www . proggies.uk/temp/tyoob_v101x.zip

Let me know if you get the same (or another) error message, and report the line number if one is given (I hope it is).

Cheers.


BasicBoy.
--

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Xerra on October 22, 2019, 17:25:38
Quote from: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 17:24:21
Quote from: Xerra on October 22, 2019, 17:07:16As Basicboy was very specific about trying his game out properly on a genuine machine due to the speed - and it gives a division by zero error anyway when tested on parallels

Ooh.. interesting. I wonder what's causing that. If you have the time, would you mind running a 'diagnostic' version of Tyoob?

http://www.proggies.uk/temp/tyoob_v101x.zip (http://www.proggies.uk/temp/tyoob_v101x.zip)

Let me know if you get the same (or another) error message, and report the line number if one is given (I hope it is).

--

Will do now. I'll post in your thread so we don't hijack Stevie's log.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 22, 2019, 18:30:00
@Qube, managed to find a bug in the menu which Adam S found and also a bug which wasn't saving default controls.  Assume I'm ok to upload the fixed version?
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 22, 2019, 19:19:37
I think we've 7 whole days for bug fixes if the rules are the same, 10 would be nice though - this aging coder needs allthe help he can get! 7's good though ;)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 20:45:41
Although I think I previously said that I didn't have any problems running Gunstar on my Win10 laptop, that's probably because I didn't actually play game - I just watched the game in demo mode! No issues there. But this evening I started to play the game, and it (i.e. the entire graphical output) keeps freezing even though the program (process) appears to be running fine in the background. I have to Alt+Ctrl+Del to the Task Manager, then click on the Gunstar icon on the Windows program bar to resume play. And then it freezes again at some random interval of a few seconds to a minute or two. I tried recording the program using Bandicam, but it's not capturing anything but the underlying Windows desktop.

Also, I keep getting the message: "Optimal Resolution Notification - The optimal resolution is 1920 x 1080. Select this notification for more information. igfxEM Module"

But actually my Windows desktop is most assuredly already in the recommended 1920 x 1080 screen resolution.


I ran GUNSTAR_LOG.exe, but in this case I don't think the log file it produces (attached to this post) is going to help much.

System info: Microsoft Windows 10 Home, Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-7700HQ, 8 GB RAM, Intel(R) HD Graphics 630.

I haven't yet tested the game on my Win 10 desktop PC (Core i7) or my other laptop PC (Core i5). I will do within the next hour or so.

I will say that despite the 'freezing' issue, I think this game is really quite excellent in a number of ways (I like the easy control system - I'm using the mouse). I hope to give it a proper play over the next hour or so.


BasicBoy.
--
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Qube on October 22, 2019, 20:52:50
Quote from: STEVIE G on October 22, 2019, 18:30:00
@Qube, managed to find a bug in the menu which Adam S found and also a bug which wasn't saving default controls.  Assume I'm ok to upload the fixed version?
Sure, upload away as it's bug fix week :)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Qube on October 22, 2019, 20:53:41
Not had a chance to pay any entries yet :( hope to do so tomorrow night \o/
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 22, 2019, 20:53:49
If you're laptop has an integrated gfx card instead of a dedicated one, that could be the issue..... Just guessing, but it worked fine for me, got to level 3, and that was gone 1 in the morning after I'd nearly coded myself to death, somwhat dismaying it's the bug ridden beast it i( sorry I meant my Efforts)s, but my problem lies in my imagination fueling RIDICULOUS requirements creep.
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 22, 2019, 20:56:18
Quote from: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 20:45:41
Although I think I previously said that I didn't have any problems running Gunstar on my Win10 laptop, that's probably because I didn't actually play game - I just watched the game in demo mode! No issues there. But this evening I started to play the game, and it (i.e. the entire graphical output) keeps freezing even though the program (process) appears to be running fine in the background. I have to Alt+Ctrl+Del to the Task Manager, then click on the Gunstar icon on the Windows program bar to resume play. And then it freezes again at some random interval of a few seconds to a minute or two. I tried recording the program using Bandicam, but it's not capturing anything but the underlying Windows desktop.

Also, I keep getting the message: "Optimal Resolution Notification - The optimal resolution is 1920 x 1080. Select this notification for more information. igfxEM Module"

But actually my Windows desktop is most assuredly already in the recommended 1920 x 1080 screen resolution.


I ran GUNSTAR_LOG.exe, but in this case I don't think the log file it produces (attached to this post) is going to help much.

System info: Microsoft Windows 10 Home, Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-7700HQ, 8 GB RAM, Intel(R) HD Graphics 630.

I haven't yet tested the game on my Win 10 desktop PC (Core i7) or my other laptop PC (Core i5). I will do within the next hour or so.

I will say that despite the 'freezing' issue, I think this game is really quite excellent in a number of ways (I like the easy control system - I'm using the mouse). I hope to give it a proper play over the next hour or so.


BasicBoy.
--

The issue sounds more like your system not liking a resolution less than 1920x1080 - the optimal res message isn't coming from the game.  I think the game defaults to 1280x720 if your card can do it. 
but if you edit the 'Options.ini' in the Data folder and change graphics to 1920 and 1080 it might sort the issue.

Let me know if this works?
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 22:05:17
QuoteLet me know if this works?

Yes, that appears to have fixed the problem. No more freezing.

Excellent work.

Got to Wave 8 (52500).



Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 22, 2019, 22:10:38
Quote from: BasicBoy on October 22, 2019, 22:05:17
QuoteLet me know if this works?

Yes, that appears to have fixed the problem. No more freezing.

Excellent work.

Got to Wave 8 (52500).

Magic - ta! 
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 23, 2019, 17:46:04
V2 is up ...

Fixes issues with:
'Start Wave' menu where clicking off buttons caused a MAV
Saving default controls (including being unable to use mouse and keys)
Default screen res of 1280x720 causing screen freezing on some machines.  This is now 1920x1080 if display allows.

https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k (https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 25, 2019, 09:11:34
V3 up - fixes issue with mouse unable to move below menu Options and cursor being distorted in 1920x1080 res.  Also fixes issue with Turrets occasionally appearing in the wrong place. 

https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k (https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k)

Time to have a go at all the other excellent entries!  :D

Cheers
Stevie
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 27, 2019, 12:23:01
V4 up - fixes bug with scores sometimes disappearing.

Same link as before.

Cheers
Stevie
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 27, 2019, 13:39:45
Quote from: STEVIE G on October 25, 2019, 09:11:34
V3 up - fixes issue with mouse unable to move below menu Options and cursor being distorted in 1920x1080 res.  Also fixes issue with Turrets occasionally appearing in the wrong place. 

https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k (https://stevieg.itch.io/gunstar?secret=qpSAuh6TnXfdOw94mJ0e6czB9k)

Time to have a go at all the other excellent entries!  :D

Cheers
Stevie

Miness as finished as it's getting, you still got Stramash languishing somewhere, I'll bet that'd do well on Mobile, sorry don't let me derail this from Gunstar, got up to level 5 last night, just about to play it on the big telly
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 27, 2019, 16:38:35
After playing your Game this afternoon Stevie, my daughter said she'd like to meet you, erm, your game scored 10 outa 10. I scraped a 5 for sheer comedy value. Iv loved creating my little slice of moving 3D art. Off out too walk in he dog
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Xerra on October 27, 2019, 16:45:34
Stevie G - the Tom Cruise of game design  ;D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 27, 2019, 16:54:36
lol something to aim for guys.   :D
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on October 27, 2019, 17:37:12
I think it's only fair that your Daughter gets your vote in that case  :P

Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: Steve Elliott on October 27, 2019, 17:48:43
lol I think you'll get enough votes as it is!   :P
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: 3DzForMe on October 28, 2019, 21:28:12
Quote.

Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
« Reply #106 on: October 27, 2019, 05:37:12 PM »
Quote
I think it's only fair that your Daughter gets your vote in that case  :P       
.      She may get one of them..... ;)
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: STEVIE G on November 29, 2019, 10:09:34
Quick update on where I am with this. 

A few new enemies have been added. 

I've been working on some planet/level color variations.  The vegatation will change depending on this

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_1528581229.png&hash=66e7cd2e1c3116d6bfe4d945d24fc8f4696d5eaa)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_1528550706.png&hash=0a7243d962931b283b2d6550e1c77abf7373bfa8)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_1528493329.png&hash=62e07a46457441520f7e1614dfbc2d4b5d2dee48)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_1528381883.png&hash=a19a0bbc8211ec48e57cb6f74722ea4f494ff012)

(https://www.syntaxbomb.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.steviegoodwin.plus.com%2Fimages%2FGunstar%2FGS_1528425296.png&hash=89d8797c69cc996a8c8a017d33188acbdb2eb430)

I'm planning to add some bigger levels and possibly a new upgrade system (similar to Van Tourisimo) where you can spend your crystals to upgrade weapons/engines/power/powerup time/auto recharge etc...

Stevie
Title: Re: MIX-IT-UP Comp Entry - Gunstar
Post by: iWasAdam on November 29, 2019, 12:44:55
Looks brilliant