A simple tip to keep a programmer sane

As you may know, I am working on the upcoming multiplayer feature of Mad Skills Motocross. I really think this will take the game up to a whole new level of bone-shattering fun. And, it's fun to make.

There are a lot of design decisions to make as to how it should work. Different modes, options, buddy lists and so on. I'd like to share the prototyped game modes we are testing: Chase, Race and Trick as well as a tip that have kept my head straight and focused over the last couple of years as a developer.

Before that I'd like to thank Bloody Bill and Joel (who still struggles with "Sinks") - the  last couple of days of harassment related to Bloody Bill's amazing race and Joel's big mouth has fueled the current dev phase. We're closing in, well on our way and maintaining great speed. Bloody Bill - keep practicing, you'll need it - Joel, shut up!

The three modes as follows:

Chase

Both players see the same view, as if playing on the same computer. This means that when one player gets a significant lead the other player will be left behind and even out of the view of the "camera". When that player's bike is not visible anymore, because it left the screen, it explodes and the leading player earns a point.

Then both bikes are reset at the same place and the chase starts again. Get a certain number of points to win.

Oh, and several tracks are chained together into one big track.

Race

Just a regular ol' race, first to the finish line wins. Exploding bikes might make an appearance, just for the sake of it.

Trick

Win the race by getting more stars than the opponent.

 

Oh yeah, the tip: Set a time for ending the day's work, at the end write down what you have done today and what you are supposed to do first thing tomorrow - doing this is the reason I am still sane. Very simple.

Take Care!

Tobias