Roguelike Radio Episode 107: Listeners Q&As
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Sep 9, 2015 Mark Johnson, a roguelike developer known for his work on procedural generation, and Alan Charlesworth, a content creator from IndieOcean, dive into the world of roguelikes. They explore hybrid games that blend genres with roguelike mechanics and discuss the impact of classic roguelike features on new designs. Mark shares advances in procedural generation, while the team debates the potential of narrative-driven content. They also brainstorm unique mechanics and thematic diversity within roguelikes, questioning why a Robin Hood roguelike hasn't emerged yet.
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Use Hooks, Then Find Your Own Path
- Use familiar IP or genre hooks to communicate your game's idea quickly, but consider a unique path for long-term freedom.
- Darren Grey warns that IP hooks help short-term attention but limit creative freedom later.
Three Frontiers For Procedural Content
- Mark Johnson identifies three PCG frontiers: abstract concepts, narratives, and puzzles.
- He argues generating meaningful cultures, stories, and puzzles are the next valuable steps beyond maps and items.
PCG Narrative Is Hard And Distant
- Darren Grey is skeptical about full procedural narratives in the near term and values authored narratives for engagement.
- He believes convincing PCG narratives need years of focused work and currently only produce partial or 'faked' story effects.