Roguelike Radio

Join board-game enthusiast Jurie Horneman, designer Eben Howard, and indie developer Ido Yehieli as they dive into the cross-pollination of board games and digital roguelikes. They explore how mechanics from classics like Carcassonne inspire procedural generation and narrative depth. Highlights include the creativity spurred by design constraints, the thrill of hidden information in gameplay, and innovative concepts like permanent changes in gaming systems. Listen in as they discuss how simple rules can lead to complex and engaging stories.

In this engaging discussion, game designer Eben Howard, known for his insights on roguelike mechanics, addresses the often-misguided 'Hero Trap' that players fall into. He and the hosts explore how narrative framing in games like FTL encourages heroism, often leading to risky decisions. They delve into strategies such as teaching players to retreat, recommending beginner-friendly builds that focus on stealth, and revising XP models to reward non-combat approaches. They also discuss creating meaningful narratives and tactical frameworks to enhance player experience in roguelikes.

Jim Shepard, the creative mind behind Dungeonmans and a former AAA developer, dives into the tactical world of roguelikes. He shares the interesting journey of Dungeonmans, from its XNA origins to the challenges of resuming development. Brian Jeffers, an advocate for niche roguelikes, joins the conversation, exploring the balance of class rules and player freedom. They discuss the engaging Academy mechanics, where progression persists between runs, and the cheeky humor inspired by tabletop games. Get ready for insights into indie development and crowdfunding!

Speakers discuss the gameplay elements and ongoing Kickstarter campaign for Cataclysm Dark Days Ahead. They explore the history, development, and involvement in the game. They also discuss the number of contributors and project size, GitHub coordination and design principles, resolving disagreements in game development, implementing bikes and vehicles, raising money for a full-time coder, and recent refinements and momentum in development.

This is episode 74 of Roguelike Radio, where we discuss Sword of the Stars: The Pit. Talking this episode are KawaiDragoness, Eben Howard and TorNis. Read more »

This is episode 73 of Roguelike Radio, on Let's Play Videos. Speaking this episode are Darren Grey, KawaiDragoness, Tom Birkel (aka GameHunter) and Eric Moran (aka belmarduk). Read more »

Tom Ford, a developer known for his work in procedural puzzles, shares insights on generating solvable locked-door quests. Johanna Ploog, a game designer, discusses her experimental project 'Murder All' and the pitfalls of procedural mystery generation. Patric Mueller contributes to the conversation on defining roguelike genres and crowdfunding's impacts on indie games. Together, they delve into emergent gameplay, the balance of winnability in roguelikes, and the ongoing innovation within the community.

Discussion of the Hunger Clock in roguelike design, balancing risk and reward, insanity system in Infra Arcana, exploring hunger clock mechanics, thematic consistency and time-sensitive rewards, exploration and advancement in roguelike games, encouraging new play styles

Eben Howard, a contributor to the roguelike community, and indie developer Aaron Steed delve into the world of accessible roguelikes. They discuss how new players often hesitate with turn-based mechanics and the intimidating nature of tight gameplay balances. The pair also explore the importance of theme and clarity in interfaces, sharing how approachable games like FTL and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon can attract newcomers. With insights on designing for player comfort and suggestions for accessible titles, listeners gain valuable tips on welcoming new fans into the genre.

Dive into the thrilling world of boss fights in roguelikes! Explore the unique traits that set bosses apart from standard monsters and discover the two main boss types: resource and puzzle. Learn about design pitfalls like immunities that frustrate players and how thematic levels enhance the challenge. The hosts share memorable encounters and debate how bosses can be integrated effectively, weighing the significance of optional bosses and dynamic mechanics. Get ready for a blend of tactical gameplay and emotional highs!