"Game Theory -- quite possibily the greatest unexpanded VIC-20 game of all time." -Ghislain Debois (creator of Realms of Quest)
The blurb should ensure everyone will try it. This is an updated version of a game included on the Denial Collection I mailed out. This version should be much better. Despite the simplicity of the code, it seems to be one of my best games. I hope you like it. I've been working on the idea of a super-duper 8k version. This version will be in the MiniGame Comp.
Game Theory
Unexpanded VIC 20, all BASIC, Joystick required.
GAME THEORY Instructions
by Jeffrey Daniels
The object of the game is to survive a variety of mini-games. Each round will only give you a few seconds to figure out what to do.
Only the joystick’s fire button is needed to complete each task. Some games may test your reflexes with a perfectly timed press. Some games may require you to rapidly press the button. Others may require different strategies for pressing the button.
Determine the best action for each game. If you are correct, you will advance to the next round. An incorrect reaction will return you to the title screen. Try to beat the high score. As you play longer, more mini-games will be unlocked.
The zip file download contains the instructions and a PRG file. DOWNLOAD
I've choice in the 8k version of this game. The unexpanded version uses only the fire button. For the 8k version, a lot of games are possible. I can't decide if I should stick with the single button control (making new games easier to figure out) or expand to full joystick control for a greater variety of games.
I think yes, make the joystick involved somehow not just the fire button. As this is based on Wario Ware anyhow, I'm sure Jeff can come up with some wacky ideas heh... but the joy is in the simplicity anyhow
Since I posted on Ghost, I will post here too. I already revisited this game. I am still happy with the revisions. I think the difficulty level has been improved.
I decided a long time ago to make this a series. Like King of Fighters in the 90s, a release every year. Then I forgot and started to work on other projects.
Then someone played it at ECCC and really seemed to enjoy it. Now, I am determined to make a sequel to this game this weekend! No excuses.
Jeff, while you're at it, could you PLEASE make a slowed-down version of this game for young children?
It's really a perfect kid's game: simple controls, variety, fun things to do. But the current version is too fast (but damn fun for adults). My 5 year old daughter would love to play this game, but it's way to fast for her.
Ahhh. I could go back and make a child option like the old Atari games used to have. Or would it be better to have a whole different program with themes more kid friendly? Making a whole new program might be the easier option from a programming viewpoint.
The next big issue is "quantity or quality." Should I work for more games or fewer games of better quality / complexity (sound effects, background graphics)?
Jeff-20 wrote:Ahhh. I could go back and make a child option like the old Atari games used to have. Or would it be better to have a whole different program with themes more kid friendly? Making a whole new program might be the easier option from a programming viewpoint.
Doesn't really matter. A stand-alone would probably be better...more key-presses and screen prompts for skill level (eg. 0 - child to 9 - adult) just mean more calls of "Daddy! Daddy! What do I press now to start it?" when I'm in the other room. I've made a whole disk of just VIC games that she can play (kids that cannot read yet). There's about 20 games, of which about 10 or so get real play. I think a child's version of "Game Theory" would be on the top 10 list!
Although now I am thinking: games like the card game (higher or lower) may not be kid themed. Same with the fish counting game. Should I replace those thinking games with more simple reflex games? I'm not sure.
This is an updated version of a game included on the Denial Collection I mailed out. This version should be much better. Despite the simplicity of the code, it seems to be one of my best games. I hope you like it. I've been working on the idea of a super-duper 8k version. This version will be in the MiniGame Comp.
