Halo-Inspired 2-D Platformer

[MetroidNut]

Well, I'm not entirely certain, but this seems the best place to put this topic. You see, for some time now I've been working on a 2-D platform game - inspired primarily by Halo - set in the very distant future of the Star Wars galaxy. I've very nearly completed the game engine (and have, in fact, shipped a tech demo to a few people), and will soon begin work on the first level. I'm not certain when I'll have a representational level finished, but if you have any desire to become an Alpha tester, feel free to leave a message here.

EDIT: List of GT Alpha Testers (will update as often as possible)
xII DM IIx
Master of Stickmen

Thanks to everyone who's offered to Alpha Test! I hope to have something ready for you before too long.

[Dohnutt]

Umm, not sure about an alpha tester, as that sounds like work and dedication, but sounds cool and I'll be willing to play it when I can

[IronJaw]

I wouldn't mind playing it when it comes out. What type of art will it be. Platform Racing, or Super Mario Bros?

[RogueKnight]

I wouldn't mind playing it when it comes out. What type of art will it be. Platform Racing, or Super Mario Bros?

Topic Title: "Halo-Inspired 2-D Platformer"
How do you get platform racing out of Halo?

I assume it will be something like those old metal gear solid arcade games.

[MetroidNut]

Metal Gear Solid sounds about right - I'm shooting for a look not unlike the GBA and SNES Metroid games. The graphics are by no means at that point yet, and they probably won't be for some time, but I do hope to improve them steadily as the game develops.

Here's a quick look at the current, to-be-improved graphics.

Hidden/Spoiler:

[xII DM IIx]

I wouldn't mind testing it out. How long have you been working on this?

[Master of Stickmen]

I'll be an alpha tester.

[IronJaw]

I wouldn't mind playing it when it comes out. What type of art will it be. Platform Racing, or Super Mario Bros?

Topic Title: "Halo-Inspired 2-D Platformer"
How do you get platform racing out of Halo?

I assume it will be something like those old metal gear solid arcade games.

I was talking of graphics. I couldn't remember the right words then. Super Mario Bros. has an older arcadey feel to them, but Platform Pacing II has a more "Drawn" look. Also the physics are totally different. SMB has a faster drop as if gravity was normal, but PR2 had a more "weightless" feel to it. I was just trying to get more information....... Trying to spark some new conversation.......... Cool, I'm a poet, and didn't know it.

[RogueKnight]

Metal Gear Solid sounds about right - I'm shooting for a look not unlike the GBA and SNES Metroid games. The graphics are by no means at that point yet, and they probably won't be for some time, but I do hope to improve them steadily as the game develops.

Here's a quick look at the current, to-be-improved graphics.

Hidden/Spoiler:

Hey, do you happen to have xfire? I'd love to have a talk with you on the subject.

[MetroidNut]

Thanks for volunteering, you two. I've put a list of Alpha testers on my first post, I'll update it as necessary. Responding to your question, DM: I've been working on this for...hmm. Probably about a month or so. Most of that time was spent getting weapon pickups and dropoffs to work, as well as solving a wide variety of glitches.

Regarding the game's physics: the game may be a 2-D platformer/shooter - well, mostly shooter - but I'm still going for realism wherever possible. Jump height is short, gravity is pretty strong. You can do some platforming and you can bunny-hop in battle, but don't expect any Mario-esque acrobatics.

And I do, indeed, have Xfire. My username is "metroidnut" (minus quotes of course). Simply send me a friend request mentioning this game and I'll be happy to accept - I'll gladly answer any questions you may have, whether on Xfire or here on GT.

[Dohnutt]

What are you coding this with?

[MetroidNut]

I'm using Game Maker 7.0, as I recall. Incidentally, my apologies, but I do believe I accidentally declined an Xfire friend invitation. I'm afraid I closed the window before getting a chance to see the name on it, so if you've sent me a friend request previously, please re-send it.

[computergeek]

Well thats neat. The graphics do look nice, even now. Let me suggest using some particle effects for gun effects. Also draw light on your firing sprites, as to create more realism.
By the way, I'm a GM7 user too, but I'll be moving into Python after my current project, but if you need scripting help, drop me a PM, and I'll see if I can help

[MetroidNut]

Thanks! I'm not too great with scripting - to be honest, I've kinda been avoiding it. Just so you know, though, I'm currently using the free version of Game Maker. I, uh, actually have the paid version, it's just not on the most easy-to-access computer and I'm a terribly lazy person...heh.

[SilvaDalek]

Will the reticules be changed to be more halo-like, and more weapons added?

[MetroidNut]

The reticules are fairly Halo-inspired already, heh - note that there is indeed a different one for each weapon, and the one visible in the screenshot is only the assault rifle's. As for weapons, I'm planning on between eight and ten total, and since taking that screenshot I've added two more. In case you were wondering, my seven current weapons are: Battle Rifle, Magnum, Plasma Cannon (think - less-spamtastic fuel rod), Assault Rifle, Sub-Machine Gun, Carbine, and Shotgun.

[computergeek]

If you want a level editor/forge mode, I can help (It's actually really easy to do)

[MetroidNut]

Oh, really? Adding a level editor/Forge mode would be an excellent way to improve replay value.... If you're willing to walk me through that, I would gladly accept.

Incidentally, just as a note, Multiplayer is probably out - Game Maker's MP functions are both difficult and time-consuming to program, and are limited to LAN or finicky IP address servers.

[computergeek]

Well I've actually been messing with a multiplayer halo game. If I ever get it finished, I'll send you the gmk so you can use the code. I'll PM you about the level editor

[MetroidNut]

Good Lord, you've been unbelievably helpful - I can't thank you enough. With the assistance you've given me, I should have little trouble getting a level editor in there. And if there's any way I can help you out in return, please don't hesitate to let me know.