Roadblocks and their purpose

Roadblocks

Last update we presented the first look on the games procedurally created levels, on these levels the players will have to navigate to find and ultimately solve the various instructions. We will discuss the instructions specifically in a future update.

The levels so far are quite straightforward with relatively logically structured streets and paths (especially the current city theme) for the players to walk through. While we have a lot of space within the procedural tool to change the exact structure of the level-layout, we also need some minor hindrances to make it more challenging to navigate, one of the solutions are roadblocks.

Roadblocks are essentially what the name suggests, in its simplest form a wall that blocks a specific path, forcing you to find another one, thus making navigating the level a bit more difficult by creating maze-like paths. However, just blocking a path can be quite boring, it really does not present you with much of a choice as there are no solutions to such a hindrance other than picking another path. So aside from strait-up blockage we have several types of roadblocks that can be bypassed.

A simple example of this is a destructible wall, the wall has a small hint that it can be damaged, and with a bit of firepower you can bring the entire wall down. However, this does force you to use your weapons extensively, which leads to wearing-down your gear.

Another type is more of a “puzzle-light” blockage. For example a wall with 3 doors, where only one door leads to the other side. You still need to spend time opening them, something that is risky while surrounded by enemies. Finally we a password protected door where you need the correct combination to open it.

We also have a few other concepts of roadblock-types that we hope to have in the game:

Summary

Roadblocks will, as the rest of the level, be procedurally placed around the level. The goal with roadblocks is to make the levels more interesting to navigate, as well as create a way to control the difficulty depending on the type and number of blocks. It also creates smaller continuous choices where the player has to evaluate if its worth the time and effort trying to solve them or completely bypass them.

More updates in the coming weeks!

And lastly, don't forget to sign up for our beta! www.Knackelibang.com

/ The Knackelibang Team