What’s the key to crafting an exhilarating VR game, one that leaves players thrilled even after they’ve taken off their headset? At Something Random, while developing Harpagun, we’ve tried to distill this into a handful of fundamental elements. Let’s dive into how we approached it.
When it comes to action games, movement is paramount. While traditional games have perfected this aspect, it remains a hurdle in VR. Some motion systems offer precision but are sluggish, while others whisk you around quickly but can break the immersive experience. In developing Harpagun, our aim was clear: create a movement system that’s comfortable, simple, quick, and immersive. Players need to react instantly, focus on what matters, and change positions quickly for better shots or to dodge danger. Achieving this was possible thanks to our “pylon and anchor” system. It allows players to navigate seamlessly within the game world, anchoring their attention to crucial points, maintaining total control, and ensuring the action never gets overwhelming.
Since the dawn of VR, there’s been a universal urge among players to grab and throw objects. However, VR’s current constraints can make this tricky and sometimes immersion-breaking. To overcome this, we introduced the Magnetic Ray. This feature makes distance grabbing an integral and exciting part of gameplay. Whether it’s hurling enemies or manipulating environmental objects like fridges and tractors, each interaction feels dynamic and meaningful.
A vibrant and engaging game world is non-negotiable. In Harpagun, we’ve infused every element with lively animations, impactful reactions, and audio that heightens the sense of power. The soundscape includes diverse elements, from the squeal of an alien up close to the satisfying thud of a television set, all set against a musical backdrop featuring army marches, jazz, and even hints of Slavic folk. While eclectic, this mix creates a unique atmosphere that makes a real impact.
To keep players engaged, we crafted a quirky universe that invites exploration. While in-depth lore might bog down the pace of an action game, we aimed for a simpler narrative – a task force of space scavengers exploring a deserted planet. But add in some strange alien flora, retro-futuristic Slavic culture, dark humor, and a less-than-brilliant crew, and you’ve got a vibrant world teeming with colorful characters and intriguing locales just waiting to be discovered.
Creating a game like this is a straightforward recipe: invest time and passion for a few years, mix well, and pour heart and creativity into it. In April, VR fans will have the chance to experience Harpagun on the PlayStation VR2. We’re eager to hear if our ideas hit the mark. Until then, take care, fellow space wanderer!
