PMD: Stalkers - Feedback and Possible Sequel Discussion

[Neo Emolga]

Ah goodie. The rules to Round 2 are on the verge of being done, but we're keeping everything quiet just in case we need to make a last minute change or addition.

Sorry if this has already been mentioned, but I think we would benefit from maybe having some things changed in order to give us more of a challenge and force us to strategize and use our actions wisely.

I feel as if every X actions should be when a murder occurs, instead of semi-randomly. c: That way we can't just explore all willy-nilly and be able to complete the game so easily. There will be a consequence to everything, basically.
Speaking of consequences, maybe make more of our actions have potential negative consequences?

You'll be happy to know there's now a set system as to when murders occur. It's not random anymore, there's going to be Day and Night cycles. You'll get to do one action for each cycle. Some actions behave differently depending on the cycle, and some actions are only available during one of those cycles, but not both.

And yes, some of your actions and choices can have potential negative consequences. You'll also run into situations where you need to choose who survives and who dies. What's that you say? You wanted more challenges? Oh boy, you're in for a real treat, then! >:3

Also maybe we can still have a solve-all route, but maybe make it much more challenging than it was so we don't, again, solve the whole story before we find everything out. Exposition is important and by hacing an easy solve-all, we miss out on a lot of plot building.

Without spoiling anything, I can say there's multiple ways to win and finish Round 2, but it's extremely unlikely and impossible you'll solve everything 100% perfectly where everyone survives, goes home happy, and eats, drinks, and stays merry. Some deaths will be out of your control. Some you will have to make a very hard decision, but nonetheless, heavy outcomes rely on it. And not taking action is still a decision. We could run Round 2 a hundred times and I honestly think the outcome would be different each and every time.

Not really a big fan of a battling system. This is meant to be a murder mystery; its meant to be strategic and brainy, n a sense

We actually tried to incorporate a battling system, and it just didn't fit in with what we were trying to do. So yeah, no battles.

I do agree with Eric though about being able to utilize our abilities as Pokemon in some way! I liked the little mention that my Snivy was able to access the top floor of the abandoned, dilapidated apartments thanks to her size. There should be various things that certain Pokemon can or can't do based on their abilities, to act as further obstacles so we can, once again, strategize who does what. Maybe a door is a little too heavy for a smaller, weaker Pokemon to open? Maybe there are some things that require opposable thumbs or something? Etc. Even if it doesnt involve our Pokemon utilizing their attacks I feel that this makes things feel much more realistic and immersive.

And you will! :D

Your size matters, your type(s) matters, and your evolution stage matter not just for Interview rapport, but for a LOAD of other things as well. Certain areas and barriers can only be bypassed by certain types of Pokémon. Bigger Pokémon get more health, but are more susceptible to taking damage while smaller Pokémon can dodge it more easily thanks to their smaller and more nimble sizes. Yes, there's traps. Oh sweet heaven to Betsy, there are traps.

And YES, you will DEFINITELY NEED to strategize about who does what depending on your character's skills, what kinds of perks they have available, and who hasn't had their Health and Sanity stats beaten to a pulp yet and can take on entering some of those more dangerous areas. Every member of the team has the chance to make a massive difference. Get your friends, get anyone who know in on this. The more people you have to help you, the better your chances will be. The magic word for Round 2 is: Diversify!

Xanthe and I are VERY excited how about this is developing and we're avidly looking forward to game day. Be prepared! >:3