Building towers of influence


Q: What do you think makes Independent games distinctive?
The vastly different game play styles they usually have, and the new innovative features they incorporate.

Q: How did your studio get your start in working with independent games?
Its a bit different for us, being students, but since we've worked with each other on game projects in the past and everything has gone well, so we've kept working together on subsequent projects. Ideally this will continue into the future, even after graduation.

Q: What is the most innovative feature of Bontãgo and how is it innovative in your mind?
The most innovative feature of Bontãgo is the physics based game play. Bontãgo doesn't just use a good physics engine for aesthetic reasons, it incorporates directly into the game play. Everything in physics based. There are few games that use this concept and none in anyway like Bontãgo.

Q: What do gamers appreciate most about Bontãgo?
The simplistic concept and design, the small learning curve, and the fact that its nothing like any other game out there. Being totally free also helps :P

Q: What was the most difficult part of Bontãgo to program?
The physics. It takes a long time to set all the parameters just how you like them. This also made networking quite a challenge.

Q: Other than your own game did any one of the IGF finalists or Student Showcase games stand out to you? Why?
One for each.
IGF Finalists:
Savage because has very interesting and fun team based strategy.
Student:
Treefort wars had a very fun and interesting design to it. Although it isn't very complete at the moment, when It's finished it should be quite the interesting game.

Q: What is your definition of an Independent Game?
A game developed without the help of a publisher. No 'higher-ups' telling you what to do, giving deadlines (marketing, executives, etc.)

Q: How do you think Independent Games will evolve in the future?
More companies will spring up and sell their games over the internet as it becomes more popular.

Q: What is the biggest challenge facing Independent games?
Getting exposure. There are tons of great independent games out there, but many are not easy to find.

Q: As one of the leaders of Independent Games, what is next for you?
Finalizing Bontãgo, and working on our next project, Salient: Supply & Command. Salient is an innovative RTS that is of course, unlike almost all other RTS games.

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By: Russell Carroll
Posted: Thursday March 11, 2004