Devlog: From Game to Antigame

Introduction

This devlog documents the creative and technical journey of transforming our project from a traditional hero-centric game into an "antigame," where the player takes on the role of the boss. The new direction flips the classic narrative, offering a fresh perspective and unique gameplay experience.

Why the Shift?

• Original Concept: The player was a hero infiltrating a villain's lair.
• New Direction: The player is now the boss—a weapon dealer at Steel Ascendant, defending against increasingly powerful heroes from the BNS agency.
• Goal: Subvert expectations and explore the power fantasy of being the antagonist.

Design Changes

• Perspective: Switched from hero to boss, requiring new dialogue, motivations, and UI elements.
• Progression: Each defeated hero is replaced by a stronger one, creating a sense of escalating challenge.
• Narrative: The story now focuses on the boss's struggle to maintain dominance against relentless agents.

Gameplay Adjustments

• Abilities: Boss abilities and weapons were rebalanced to feel powerful but fair.
• AI: Hero AI was improved to provide a greater challenge with each new agent.
• Level Design: Environments were tweaked to suit the boss's defensive playstyle.

Challenges Faced

• Balancing Difficulty: Ensuring each new hero feels tougher without making the game unfair.
• Player Empathy: Making the boss relatable and fun to play, despite being the antagonist.
• Narrative Consistency: Rewriting story elements to fit the new perspective.

Lessons Learned

• Flipping the narrative can breathe new life into a project.
• Antagonist roles require careful design to keep players engaged.
• Iterative playtesting is crucial for balance and fun.

Next Steps

• Continue refining boss mechanics and hero AI.
• Expand the story with more unique heroes and boss upgrades.
• Gather player feedback to polish the antigame experience further.

Team PopoConda