Good to hear, I know a lot of people have been noticing recently a lack of activity around the forums, in regards to WIP's and other endeavors. It seems the actual traffic around here hasn't decreased, but there's definitely been a decline in posts, which has evidently been a downer for many folk; specifically, the WIP game section itself. Tons of great games are being developed, at least concept initiations where pages of screenshots and tid-bits about the project can be seen, however that may just be the thing. Everyone's been used to years of countless people throwing up game ideas with screenshots of 2-3 levels, but in the end, regardless of the work and time spent on the game, they all dissipate and fade into the dormant pages.
I think people still care about these projects, I believe the work being put into them is still commendable, creative effort, people just may be tired of saying the same thing over and over; really, the only thing you can say, which is something to the effect of
this is looking great, hope to see more soon. Yes motivation is a tremendous help in the process of developing your game, and continuing with energy and ambition, however it's becoming relatively clear that most people, as of late, seemingly respond with more enthusiasm when there's
significant production in the
first post. When right off the bat the output is substantial and everyone can be convinced that this project is serious: Your biggest persuasive token in my eye, a demo. And none of this 'walk down a corridor, through a room, kill a zombie, ascend a flight of stairs, jump over the box puzzle and
huzzah that's my demo' business. I strongly believe an ace demo, with multiple lengthy levels along with a clear indication of effort (level outline, lighting, detail, enemy placement, story implimentation, unique menu's and loading screens) is the best way to actually hook the audience. I could be very wrong, it's just an opinion.
I'm sorry I've started writing a novel here, I just wanted to actually address the growing distress with many forum members. Again, it's just simply my personal opinion I'm using as an answer here, however I really can't stress enough the fact that even when a WIP can say
42 views and
6 posts, it doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong, or that your game is horrible. It just means people are most likely just simply curious to see a little more of what you have to offer. In fact, if the
views continue to grow, even IF no one has STILL posted, people are still evidently coming into your thread to check things out. They're curious, possibly even excited to see what progress you've made because they think you've got a respectable foundaion, otherwise they wouldn't keep checking it out at all.
Motivation is key though - and relying solely on the forums to give it to you will unfortunately get you no where. Take the criticism, information, or the silence, whatever it is you can inherit, and keep plugging away at your game. You've just got to want to make it, in your heart. If the passion dies, let it. Don't rely on the forums to keep the flame going. I think everyone here has the ability to make an
awesome game with FPS Creator, they just need to find the drive. The spark, whatever it may be to them.
Bah, that's my two cents. Would love to hear what you've got to say about the topic though PW. Hopefully things are going well with your projects as well, if you need any help just throw me an email.
Cheers
Life would be much easier if I had the source code.
