In this episode, the developer of the game Cataclysm talks about the post-apocalyptic roguelike set in New England. They discuss the game's inspirations, gameplay balance, NPC factions, decay in the game world, user interface, challenges of porting to Windows, gameplay vs simulationism, and the development and atmosphere of Cataclysm.
Cataclysm is a post-apocalyptic roguelike game inspired by Left 4 Dead and NetHack.
The game emphasizes player decision-making, customization, and exploration.
Future plans for the game include the addition of NPCs, customizable vehicles, and involvement of the player community.
Deep dives
Development of Cataclysm
In this podcast episode, the developer of the post-apocalyptic survival game Cataclysm, known as Wales, discusses the inspiration behind the game and its unique features. Wales explains that the idea of creating a zombie game with a focus on long-term survival and exploration came from his love for Left 4 Dead and the desire for a more open-ended experience. He also mentions that his design choices were influenced by the roguelike game NetHack. Wales talks about the ongoing development of Cataclysm and his plans to introduce NPCs, sandbox environments, and mission-based goals.
Gameplay and Features of Cataclysm
Cataclysm is praised for its realistic and gritty atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and attention to detail. The podcast highlights the game's emphasis on player decision-making, customization, and exploration. It mentions gameplay mechanics such as healing, food, and water management, crafting, and shelter building. The concept of vehicles and the potential for multiplayer interaction through shared game instances is also discussed.
Balancing Realism and Gameplay
Wales explains that while realism is important to him, he also considers gameplay and the enjoyment of players. He mentions examples such as healing mechanics, where a balance is struck between realism and fast-paced gameplay. The podcast also mentions the importance of striking a balance between the gritty post-apocalyptic setting and the ability for players to set their own goals and playstyles within the game.
NPC AI and Future Developments
The podcast highlights the challenges of developing NPC AI for Cataclysm, including issues with combat decisions and interactions. The future plans for the game include the addition of roaming NPCs, small gangs, and improved AI. The podcast also mentions the desire to include customizable vehicles, the development of a Windows version, and the involvement of the player community in contributing mods and content.
Summary and Evaluation
In summary, the podcast episode provides an insightful overview of the post-apocalyptic survival game Cataclysm. It explores the game's development, gameplay mechanics, and future plans. The podcast praises the game's balance between realism and gameplay, its atmospheric setting, and the dedicated player community. Overall, Cataclysm is described as an innovative and engaging roguelike with a strong emphasis on player choice and exploration in a challenging and immersive post-apocalyptic world.
Welcome to episode 20 of Roguelike Radio. This week we discuss Cataclysm, a post-apocalyptic roguelike with a large open world. Talking this episode are Darren Grey, Ido Yehieli, Eronarn, Joshua Day and Cataclysm's developer Zachary Jenkins (aka Whales).
