Hurrah, Dedicated Server no Longer Needed!
Given the type of game play we envision, it became clear a Dedicated Server was overkill. Dedicated servers tend to work best for games that expect to manage much higher concurrent player counts. We are using games like Dungeon Defenders, Sanctum and Orcs Must Die as inspiration. Given that these games are more focused on cooperative game experiences we too will keep player connections between 1 and 4 per game. This last month a lot of code was moved away from the original dedicated server model. This change simplifies hosting a multiplayer game as it no longer requires players to setup both a dedicated server and a separate game instance. To reflect these changes, we will be updating the current GUI elements - for example, instead of "Setup a Server" it will become "Create a Game", and will include options which allow public or private game instances.
Character Inventory / Skills / and Miscellany
In efforts to reach the goals set forth in January, the very first skill was introduced: the always classic fireball spell. As of right now, it swirls and it emits flame particles as it travels a certain distance before expiring or hitting the terrain. Only the Paladin character has this ability for now ( only added to him for general testing). We have also implemented teams. There are two to choose from and each spawns from a different location. Additionally the host/server is now be shown in the 'Tab' menu as a player.
At this point we are working to configure the skills (currently the fireball) to hit each other and deal damage. Since we have no intention to include PvP in the game, at least at this time, this is more to test attacks against future enemy AI than anything else. The character inventory/skill/menus have not been linked to this new ability or February's prototype build, but the plan is to have this (and hopefully more) integrated by next month.
The latest prototype build is available for download from our website. Head on over and check it out and as always, you can bookmark this page to read update posts, or simply follow WetFireGames on twitter, Facebook or Google+ to keep tabs on our development. See you guys next month!
Development Blog
