It's REALLY early right now. It's actually really impressive for a first build, but unfortunately, I can't play it because of lag issues. Then again, it's beta 1, so things will be straightened out by then.
So is this one big open world without load times? What about when you walk into buildings/caves? Is it more like Ravensword with different areas? Thanks.
There are loading times when you go into walled cities, buildings and caves. But, unlike Ravensword, the rest of the world is seamless -- you can walk from a forest into a village without interruption. You can probably fit the entirety of Ravensword into a corner of this open world. Again, it's not as detailed and pretty as Ravensword, but it does convey a sense of place.
Will it be universal build for both iphone and iPad or just for iPhone? I do have an ipad if it needs testing on it.....
We would of course to do an iPad version of Aralon but right now we are focused on the iPod/iPhone release. We are debating whether to do a single version for all devices or a separate, "Aralon HD" version for the iPad. What do people generally prefer? The trend with most other developers right now seems to be releasing the iPad-only "HD" version . . .
I may not have an iPad, but what seems most fair to the customer is to have the iPhone/iPod version with an HD update after release. I just hate that devs are charging when they're not adding any new content (although some are adding new content, in which case it's fine).
So how's this game coming along? Are you guys on the first/second beta? Is the game running smooth? Thanks.
looks nice. hopefully with some updated textures and spell gfx this could be a really interesting game.
I can't wait for this game to be out! will it be one massive open world or will it have sectors that are divided?
Hey, squarezero, you're on the beta correct? If so, could you possibly post up some initial impressions (without violating any kind of NDA)? Thanks!
There's really no NDA on this one, but I'm always wary to go to deeply into a beta build since it may change dramatically before release. As is, however, I think it's a pretty amazing accomplishment -- far deeper than any other 3D WRPG currently in the App Store. It has a core story, many side quests, tons of character customization (including multiple race, appearance options, jobs, stats, skill trees, etc), tons of loot (which is shown on the character when equipped), crafting, horse-riding, sea-travel (port-to-port), many kinds of monsters, weather effects (no day/night, though), guilds, and so forth. The combat system is fairly involved for an action RPG, with multiple abilities, stealth attacks, two-weapon options, etc. Still, it's an indie project, and it could certainly use some polish, particularly when it comes to animation and textures. But even with the rough edges, I found it to be very immersive and fun to play. I didn't get too deeply into the story (and wouldn't want to spoil it, anyway), but the game does provide a strong personal motivation for your character, which is always appreciated.
Thanks for the impressions, it looks a lot more promising than I originally thought. How would you describe the combat? It looks like a turn based system within real-time (what I mean by that is games such as NWN, KOTOR, Baldur's Gate etc.) Combat is a large part of what would make me decide to buy an RPG. Also, exactly how long are load times?
Load times are not too bad, but I'm on a 3Gs, so your experience might be different. As to combat, it's definitely an Action RPG, but they take into account attack speeds so it's not just button mashing. The system is smart enough not to let you shoot arrows when the enemy is too close (and automatically switch you to your selected melee weapon). You also have special action based on both melee and magical abilities. A fun thing to do for a rogue/ranger type is to use a stealth ability and do surprise ranged attacks that stun the enemy -- it allows you to take an additional ranged attack, or to focus for a bit on a second monster. It's been a while since I played NWN and Baldur's Gate, so I don't quite remember exactly how they went, but it should be noted that Aralon is more like Oblivion, with a camera fixed behind your character, rather than 3/4 view.
Thanks for posting up your views!! This is sounding even more awesome now! It will definitely be sweet to have a portable version of Morrowind/Oblivion. Hopefully the devs will be able to implement a true day/night rotation for the finished game, but, like you said, it's still in beta so anything is possible.
