Tag Archives: Bioware

Train2Game news: Bioware exploring ‘experimental’ mobile market

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Train2Game students will know that iPhone gaming as a whole has become big business with a number of publishers plotting a long term mobile strategy.

And while the Train2Game blog has previously reported that EA has detailed plans for mobiles, Bioware, who publish the Mass Effect and Dragon Age series’ under the EA, don’t have any specific plans for mobile, but it’s something they’re looking into.

“We’re doing more stuff. EA as a whole is doing more mobile games, and at BioWare we’re looking at mobile extensions for our franchises as well,” BioWare founder Dr. Ray Muzyka told Industry Gamers.

“Nothing to announce specifically right now, but mobile’s going to be one of the dominant platforms going forward.” added co-founder Dr. Greg Zeschuk

And he believes mobile will become as strong as traditional consoles.

“It’s going to be right up there with anything else – it already is in a sense. In terms of dollar share, maybe not yet, but we’re just starting down the hill on free-to-play on mobile devices. That’s a big thing right now. So yeah, we take mobile pretty seriously.”

As previously reported by the Train2Game blog, free-to-play games generate a majority of App store revenue.  And Zeschuk believes the  free-to-play is a low risk environment to test out new ideas, with the prospect of failure not a catastrophe.

“One thing we’ve learned is that you need to lead with gameplay – making sure the core gameplay is really tight”

And another thing is just understanding the platform well enough that you really are state of the art in terms of what you’re delivering relative to what’s there.” said the Bioware co-founder.

“And sometimes it’s just experimental too, and on mobile with something of that scale it’s actually a lot safer to explore ideas,” he added.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on Bioware looking into mobile? Is it a good area to experiment with?

Leave your comments here on the Train2Game blog, or here on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Industry Gamers]

Train2Game news: Bioware on the importance of playtesting during game development

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Train2Game students will be aware testing a game is an extremely important part of game development. But according to Bioware, it isn’t something that should be left to the QA Testers or Beta testers alone, rather the game developers should be constantly involved in the process too.

That’s according to Star Wars: The Old Republic project lead James Ohlen who was speaking to Gamasutra.

“The thing about it is, it’s important to get people to test your game, but the beta tests are more for finding out if your technology’s going to stand up, and finding some small tweaks and changes.” he said when asked about playtesting.

“But all the big changes that we’ve been making were planned from way before, because we’ve been playing the game ourselves. If we didn’t figure this stuff out, we’d be terrible game designers. So, internally we figured out a lot of the problems early on.

However, Ohlen pointed out that Beta testers still have a role to play in game development.

“But at the same time, it’s good for fans to feel like they’re having an impact, and sometimes they do”

“Sometimes they do point out information that is a little bit surprising, but nothing hugely surprising. There’s been surprises on the project, but mostly they’ve come from us playtesting this stuff.” the Star Wars: The Old Republic project lead concluded.

For a more in depth look behind the scenes of Star Wars: The Old Republic, check out the Train2Game interview with Associate Lead Designer Emmanuel Lusinchi.

Star Wars: The Old Republic will be released in Europe on 22nd December 2011.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on testing games? Do you agree that it’s an important part of a game developers job, no matter what role they have in the industry?

Leave your comments here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Gamasutra]

EA admit Game Design of Dragon Age 2 drove Origins fans away

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Dragon Age 2 Publishers EA have admitted that “innovations” in the game cost them fans, and therefore providing a lesson to Train2Game students about Game Design.

While innovation is key to the games industry, the admission demonstrates that Train2Game students who produce games that are too far out there may risk unpopularity.

Many fans were disappointed with a particular Game Design element of Dragon Age 2 that reused the same locations multiple times.

“We were clearly disappointed with some of the response from the fanbase, because we want them to be as excited about it as we are,” EA Games Label boss Frank Gibeau told Eurogamer.

“We’re very proud of the game. We tried to innovate and do some different things with the combat system and some of the way we told story. For some fans it worked well. In fact, we brought a lot of new fans into the Dragon Age franchise.

“But to be honest, we lost some fans as well. They were not pleased with some of the innovations and things we’d done. We understand that and we’re listening.”

It’s not the first time the Train2Game blog has reported that fan feedback will be taken into consideration with the Dragon Age franchise. As reported by the Train2Game blog last month, Bioware admitted they’d be listening to fan complaints.

Some Train2Game students will no doubt be pleased that EA say they’ll listen to this criticism when it comes to developing Dragon Age 3.

“As we think about where we take the franchise next, we’re going to take that into consideration and really engage them,” Gibeau continued.

“Ray [Muzyka] and Greg [Zeschuk] have built a long career being close to their fanbase and understanding what they want.”

“If they do something in a direction that is innovative and fresh for some but not for others, they’ll take that into consideration as we think about the next design and where the game goes from here.”

Last year, the Train2Game blog highly praised Dragon Age: Origins, particularly when it came to Game Design.

For more on why Bioware decided to take Dragon Age II in the direction they did, see extracts of an interview with Mike Laidlaw on Game Design hereon the Train2Game blog.

How important do you believe it to be for developers to listen to fans? Where is the fine line between innovation and alienating fans?

Leave your comments here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Eurogamer] 

Bioware admit Dragon Age II faults following community feedback. How important is listening to fans Train2Game?

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Bioware Lead Designer Mike Laidlaw has responded to reactions from fans about Dragon Age II’s controversial new Game Design mechanics.  (You can remind yourself of how Bioware said the Game Design of Dragon Age II was ‘more welcoming’ here on the Train2Game blog)

The game itself proved popular on the Train2Game Forum, but Bioware were inundated with comments on the Bioware forum that voiced concerns that Dragon Age II when compared to the original, Dragon Age: Origins. (A title that the Train2Game blog previously laid great praise on, especially when it came to Game Design)

Laidlaw has recognised concerns of Bioware forum users and insists that there are aspects of Dragon Age 2 that must be improved upon in future games in the series.

“I am absolutely aware of the concerns voiced here. Issues like level re-use, the implementation of wave combat, concerns about the narrative and significance of choice and so on have all been not only noted, but examined, inspected and even aided me (and many, many others on the team) in formulating future plans.” he said. “Further, I’m not only aware of the concerns, but I agree that there are aspects of DA II that not only can but must be improved in future installments. And that is precisely our intent.”

Laidlaw also added the reasons why Bioware made such a drastic change from Dragon Age: Origins with Dragon Age II “I am very proud of what the team accomplished with Dragon Age II. I know many are advocating a “it wasn’t broke, why did you try to fix it?” stance, and I absolutely understand why. From my perspective, as someone looking to the future and the DA franchise, I think that DA II moved us into a space that has more potential.

“The story events of DA II have fundamentally altered the political and power landscape of Thedas, in a way that’s open to intrigue, drama and sweeping conflict in the future, and evolves a world that, while still very much involving the Grey Wardens and Darkspawn, is about more than just that one struggle.”

“Hawke’s story was a departure from the usual tale, and in crafting it and the game around it we learned a lot. Some from what worked, but even more from what didn’t. Such is always the way. I hope that in the future we’ll be able to discuss how we’re addressing your concerns and even solicit feedback from you on future plans in the process, but for now, I hope a simple thank you will suffice.” He concluded.

It provides a potentially interesting lesson to Train2Game students in listening to fan feedback when developing games.  For more on why Bioware decided to take Dragon Age II in the direction they did, see extracts of an interview with Mike Laidlaw on Game Design here on the Train2Game blog.

So Train2Game, how important do you believe it to be for developers to listen to fans? Is it something you look forward to in your future career? Have you already responded to feedback when producing games?

Leave your comments here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Souce: Bioware Forum via CVG]

Bioware explain Game Design ‘Flashpoints’ of Star Wars: The Old Republic

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Star Wars: The Old Republic Train2Game blog image

Here’s one for the Train2Game Game Design students; Bioware associate producer Cory Butler recently spoke about the upcoming Star Wars: The Old Republic, explaining now the narrative of the MMO moves forward through what are called Flashpoints.

“Flashpoints in Star Wars: The Old Republic are action-packed, story-driven adventures that put a group of players up against difficult foes in sticky situations” Butler told Star Wars website Darth Hater.

“Every Flashpoint begins with an exciting story and contains difficult decisions which have meaningful impact on the challenges you’ll face, the enemies you’ll fight, and the outcome of the flashpoints.”

In other comments that Train2Game QA Testers may find interesting, the producer spoke about how character creation and in-game difficulty of Star Wars: The Old Republic had been altered by community feedback. Butler also mentioned how those interested in testing the came can do so.

“Those interested in testing The Old Republic need to be a registered member of the Star Wars: The Old Republic community. Once signed up at www.starwarstheoldrepublic.com, they simply need to check the box indicating that they are interested in becoming a tester and follow the instructions provided”

So if any Train2Game students – those on the QA Tester course in particular –now is your chance to try and get involved.

Star Wars: The Old Republic developers Bioware have previously stated that World of Warcraft is the ‘touchstone’ for all MMOs. You can read the full comments here on the Train2Game blog.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on the ‘Flashpoint’ method of driving narrative? Is a story an important factor for an MMO? And how much impact do you think community testing can have?

Leave your comments here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: VG247]

Dragon Age 2 demo confirmed

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Dragon Age 2 Train2Game blog image

Train2Game students will be able to get a taste of Dragon Age 2 later this month when EA release a demo on February 22nd.  Completing the demo will allow players access to a special weapon for the full game.

The official press release from EA says the Dragon Age 2 demo will let players experience two different sections of the game and as any of the three playable classes:

“In the demo, players will venture through the game’s prologue, choosing from three different character classes. They’ll also learn more about Hawke and hone their skills and abilities that will make them the ultimate hero.

After finishing the prologue, players will enter a key new location in the world of Dragon Age, Kirkwall, befriending Isabela, a romantic interest in the game who is also a deadly smuggler. Upon completion of the demo, players will unlock a special weapon, Hayder’s Razor, an ancient dwarven blade which increases health, mana, and combat abilities, in the full release of Dragon Age II.”

The Dragon Age II demo will be available on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC from February 22nd, while the full game is released on March 11.

Train2Game students interested in the Game Design of Dragon Age 2 should check out this Developer Diary, previously posted on the Train2Game blog The information that’s been revealed about Dragon Age 2 so far seems to suggest that it’ll match or even beat the expert character development and story telling of the original game.

So Train2Game, will you be checking out the Dragon Age 2 demo? What do you think about EA’s promise of a special weapon for completing the demo? And will releasing a demo increase the sales of the game?

As usual, you can leave your thoughts here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum. Alternatively, you can let us know what you think via Twitter.

[Source: EA]

Train2Game, in association with DR Studios and the University of Bedfordshire, will be holding a Game Jam at the end of March. For more information, see this Train2Game blog post or the Train2Game Game Jam Facebook page. Alternatively, keep an eye on the Train2Game Game Jam Twitter account.

Dragon Age II story developer diary

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Dragon Age 2 Train2Game Blog Image

Bioware has released another Dragon Age 2 Developer Diary which will be of particular interest to Train2Game Games Design Students.

This latest Dragon Age 2 Developer Diary mainly examines the character of Hawke, his (or her!) back story and how decisions made by the player will have consequences for the characters development.

The story of Hawke spans across many years and sees them escape The Blight of Dragon Age: Origins to eventually become the Champion of Kirkwall. But how does this work in just a single game? The Dragon Age 2 developers explain that the story is set within a story, with the tale being told by a character called Varric who knew Hawke. They also discuss how because it’s being told as the story of a legend, exaggerations will often occur!

The Dragon Age 2 writers also discuss romance in the game.

The Developer Diary is very interesting and it’s amazing to think that there are so many different dialogue options and outcomes depending on the choices the player makes.

Train2Game students can watch the Dragon Age 2 developer diary below.

If that isn’t enough information from Bioware about Dragon Age 2, Train2Game students can also check out this almost must watch developer diary from last month. There’s also an extended trailer available in this Train2Game blog post.

The information that’s been revealed about Dragon Age 2 so far seems to suggest that it’ll match or even beat the expert character development and story telling of the original game.

Train2Game students can pick up Dragon Age 2 when it’s released for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on March 11th.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on the developer diary? Do you think the concept of telling a story over many years will work? Do you think focusing on a specific character – as opposed to creating your own in Dragon Age: Origins – is the way forward?

As usual, you can leave your thoughts here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Bioware tease next game

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Bioware Teaser

Bioware has released a teaser about a previously announced game, set to be revealed at next months Spike TV Video Games Awards.

The game doesn’t look like it’ll be the much anticipated Mass Effect 3, because as you can see in the video, the new project looks to have a more modern setting than the sci-fi RPG. Could Bioware be bring an RPG twist to the stream of contemporary first person shooters we’re seeing at the moment? Will this game be a shooter?

What’s certain is that whatever Bioware are working on, it’s going to be quite different to Mass Effect and Dragon Age.

You can draw your own conclusions, that is until Bioware reveal more, by watching the teaser trailer below.

So yes, that definitely looks a lot different to Bioware’s previous games, especially Dragon Age: Origins. However, Dragon Age: Origins is one of the best RPG’s out there, and Dragon Age 2 is shaping up nicely, so it’s likely that Bioware know what they’re doing. (I haven’t got round to the Mass Effect series yet, but I hear it’s just as good, if not better than Dragon Age)

As Bioware’s teaser trailer says, we’ll find out more at Spike TV’s Video Games Awards on December 11th

So Train2Game, what do you make of the Bioware teaser trailer? What do you think the game could be? Are you disappointed that it doesn’t look like it’ll be Mass Effect 3?

You can leave your thoughts about the Bioware teaser trailer here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Bioware release extended Dragon Age 2 trailer

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Bioware have released an extended version of the Dragon Age 2 reveal trailer first revealed at GamesCom. The new Dragon Age 2 ‘Directors Cut’ trailer gives us an extra 42 seconds of CG based Dragon Age goodness.

The video features Dragon Age 2 protagonist Hawke in a one on one battle with what appears to be a demon, with some very big horns. The swordplay and magic show that the hero of Dragon Age two has more than a few tricks up his sleeve when battling the dark forces.

Interestingly, the narration in the video appears to come from Flemeth. Dragon Age: Origins veterans will know Flemeth has a powerful witch of the wilds.

Is it possible Flemeth will have a role in Dragon Age 2?

Dragon Age 2 will be released in the UK on March 11th 2011, as revealed during EA’s GamesCom press conference last week.

While the Dragon Age 2 trailer looks very impressive, it’s highly unlikely that the actual game footage. However, the Dragon Age: Origins trailer at last years E3 didn’t feature in-game footage, but Dragon Age still proved to be a very impressive role playing game. Good news for fans of the series is that it isn’t over yet, with Bioware revealing more DLC for Dragon Age: Origins in the form of Witch Hunt.

But back to Dragon Age 2, you can watch the extended trailer below.

So, Train2Game what do you think of that? Are you looking forward to Dragon Age 2 being released on March 11th? And how effective do you think the Dragon Age 2 trailer is?

You can leave your thoughts about Dragon Age 2 here on the Train2Game blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Bioware reveal Dragon Age ‘Witch Hunt’ DLC

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Bioware have revealed yet more DLC for their highly successful RPG Dragon Age: Origins, a game the Train2Game blog has  heavily praised in previous articles – and deservingly so!

The new downloadable content is called Dragon Age: Witch Hunt, but be warned, if you haven’t finished Dragon Age: Origins this news will reveal massive spoilers about the end of Bioware’s epic role playing game. You have been warned, read on and Dragon Age: Origins will be spoiled for you.

Dragon Age: Witch Hunt takes place a year after the events of the Dragon Age: Origins finally in which the Archdemon was slain and the Darkspawn threat has been vanquished.

One question remains: what happened to Morrigan?

If you’ve finished Dragon Age: Origins (and if you haven’t, you should really have stopped reading by now) you’ll be aware that no matter which one of the multiple story choices you made towards the end of the game, Morrigan leaves straight after the battle with the Archdemon.

Morrigan’s whereabouts have been unknown, but with reports that she has returned to Ferelden you’ll have the opportunity to tie up one of the biggest loose ends from Dragon Age: Origins. The official Dragon Age Witch Hunt site says “But whether you seek answers, revenge, or reconciliation with your lost love, you may find more than you bargained for.”

Will The Warden have the choice to slay Morrigan? Well, yes probably, seeing that many of your companions can be killed by your own hand in the many, many different available plots in the Dragon Age: Origins story.

Dragon Age Witch Hunt is available on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 as downloadable content from September 7th.

So Train2Game, if you played Dragon Age: Origins, are you keen to play this conclusion? Or are you just waiting for Dragon Age 2 now? And do you think all this downloadable content from Bioware is a positive or negative thing?

Leave your thoughts about Dragon Age here on the Train2Game blog or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source –  Dragon Age: Origins offical website]