Torn Apart Development Blog – Week 5
This week, the team was in its first initial week of production. Instead of trying to make a build for Halves, we decided to polish our interactions, as we would normally.
Production Updates
- Art:
There have been major leaps in environment art. Meghna, Lutong, and Sophie have been working on filling up the environment and trying to make sure the environment is intuitive to explore. To get powerful responses from playtests we colored in the environment for now. We plan on replacing the color with textures that give this apartment it’s own identity.
- Packing Mechanic:
We’ve been refining the core packing mechanic to ensure smooth and intuitive interactions for the player. This mechanic is central to the narrative and the overall gameplay loop, so we’re paying close attention to player feedback as we iterate. We hope to playtest in week 6. - Dialogue:
We’ve been honing the dialogue interactions between the player character and the environment, making sure they are emotionally resonant and aligned with our transformational goals. - Interactions in Progress:
- Return a Bowl Interaction: We’re developing a meaningful interaction where the player returns a bowl to the kitchen, tying it to the neighborhood
- Vinyl and Record Player Interaction: This interaction is still in development, integrating both audio and storytelling elements as the player uncovers more about the community through music.
Programming Updates
- The programming team has made substantial progress. Currently we are working on:
- Vinyl and Record Player Interaction: This interaction is being fine-tuned, with sound integration in progress.
- Stretch Goal: We are also working on a radio-fixing interaction, which, if time permits, will offer another layer of environmental storytelling.
Here is a quick demo of the build:
Subject Matter Expert (SME) Updates
- Walter Lewis, President & CEO of Homewood Children Village :
Walter Lewis, has agreed to assist with the project as our SME. He is a community advocate. He will be an important resource for us, helping to gather testimonials from those affected by gentrification in Pittsburgh. Additionally, he’s volunteered to help us find potential players for playtesting, which will be invaluable in testing our transformational goals.
Halves Presentation Prep
As we prepare for our Halves presentation, we are exploring the best way to structure the game’s narrative and mechanics for a compelling demo. We aim to present a cohesive slice of the gameplay, showcasing the core mechanics and a narrative arc that effectively introduces our transformational themes.
This week has been productive, as we continue to refine the details that will bring Torn Apart to life. We are excited to test our progress and gain valuable feedback during the upcoming Halves presentation!