2009-11-07, 08:17 PM
The reason the numbers game is the way it is, is because A) if it was linear it might be very hard to make a really epic game B) the way it is is actually probably safer for casual game makers C) it had to be some way, however it really should have given people more control over the damage formulas. At the minimum it should have had options to make the numbers just like other KF games, the same way the level tables have some choices.
For my current project I've fixed all the variables possible including giving the player and monsters all 100hp. I only use stats from 0 to 9, but I had to multiply them by 10 after John figured out how strength/magic converted into atk/def stat bonuses so that the players' stats would not increase the damage too much either way. I think the rule of thumb is start the player with decent stats, and do all you can to make sure they can't obtain godlike power. And just to be sure, put some monsters toward the end of the game that would be a challenge even if the player's stats were maxed out. I usually just test maximum stats, except in the starting areas, there I also test minimum stats. I suppose on the other hand you need to decide if you want your game to be a challenging action game, or an interactive movie (which is how KF tends to be)
The biggest limitation in SOM games tends to be the really limited combat system. If you want a challenge you need to be more clever than one on combat.
PS/Offtopic: I'm on forum vacation for a little while. PM me if you have specific questions for me.
For my current project I've fixed all the variables possible including giving the player and monsters all 100hp. I only use stats from 0 to 9, but I had to multiply them by 10 after John figured out how strength/magic converted into atk/def stat bonuses so that the players' stats would not increase the damage too much either way. I think the rule of thumb is start the player with decent stats, and do all you can to make sure they can't obtain godlike power. And just to be sure, put some monsters toward the end of the game that would be a challenge even if the player's stats were maxed out. I usually just test maximum stats, except in the starting areas, there I also test minimum stats. I suppose on the other hand you need to decide if you want your game to be a challenging action game, or an interactive movie (which is how KF tends to be)
The biggest limitation in SOM games tends to be the really limited combat system. If you want a challenge you need to be more clever than one on combat.
PS/Offtopic: I'm on forum vacation for a little while. PM me if you have specific questions for me.