Welcome to the ScrumShowdown Development Log!
In this update, we’re diving into some exciting progress on the development of the enemy AI, gameplay mechanics, and the integration of new visuals for the game. As we continue to polish gameplay and enhance the overall player experience, there have been some important shifts in how the game flows and how the visuals are coming together.
Refining the Passing and Receiving Mechanics
One key gameplay update is the change to how players interact with the ball during play. Instead of controlling the passer, players will now control the receiver. This new mechanic still requires the same core skills for catching the ball, but it shifts the focus onto positioning and timing as the player works to catch the pass. This change brings a new layer of strategy to the gameplay, requiring players to pay closer attention to their surroundings and anticipate where the pass will land.
This adjustment will also have an impact on how AI-controlled teammates react during the match. The AI defenders will continue to focus on their assigned tasks—one chasing the ball holder while the other tries to block or intercept the opposing player. The ball will be passed with the designated power, and the player must be in the right position to catch it successfully. These changes are designed to make the game more dynamic and engaging, with players fully immersed in their role as the receiver.
Splash Screen and Visual Transitions
On the visual front, there has been significant progress with the splash screen and transitions. Samuel has taken charge of incorporating assets, and we’re looking at a smooth, branded experience that ties into the game’s overall aesthetic. The splash screen will feature the Goblin Game logo alongside the Uni logo, providing a cohesive introduction to the game.
The next step is integrating these elements into the main menu. Samuel will work on adjusting the colours and overall layout to incorporate these new assets while keeping the existing functionality, such as the pitch and buttons, intact. While the styles may differ from what we had before, the goal is to create a new, refreshed look that feels polished and professional. The main menu will now feature a new dynamic transition, with the potential for an animated background that ties into the branding.
Additionally, if no one joins the game within a minute, a gameplay trailer will automatically play. This trailer will showcase gameplay from each mode, helping to keep the experience dynamic even when idle.
Button and Font Adjustments
In line with the new visual updates, the buttons and font used throughout the game will also receive a refresh. The goal is to give the game a more polished, professional feel with a font that suits the game’s tone. These adjustments will help the game feel more cohesive and visually appealing, providing a more immersive experience for players.
The title text may also be adjusted to 3D, but this is still up for discussion. Regardless, it’s clear that these visual updates will elevate the overall experience.
Challenges and Time Constraints
Of course, with new updates and changes come challenges. The team has encountered some frustration due to delays in receiving important design assets, leading to additional adjustments that could have been avoided if the assets had arrived on time. Despite these hurdles, the team remains committed to refining the visuals and ensuring that everything aligns with the game’s goals.
These challenges highlight the importance of planning and timing when it comes to game development, but the team is adapting and finding creative solutions to keep the project moving forward.
What’s Next?
As we continue to refine both the gameplay and the visuals, there will be more exciting updates coming your way. Stay tuned as we further develop the enemy AI mechanics, integrate the new menu designs, and fine-tune all of the features that will make this mode a truly exciting experience for players!
