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The Castlevania Dungeon Forums => Fan Stuff => Topic started by: Nightale on May 06, 2017, 10:08:55 PM

Title: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on May 06, 2017, 10:08:55 PM
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NPw6TBsHlh4/WQOktVHXabI/AAAAAAAADjA/RVFyv00___wjHM8fVB7ZxXkxBSRFpKx8ACLcB/s1600/logo.png)

Before I start writing about the game, let me quickly introduce myself. Game development has been a big hobby of mine since 2000 and since then, I made a bunch of smaller and larger freeware RPG games (they were never translated to English, though). I also founded a Czech and Slovak RPG maker community, which functions since 2005. It’s called RPG2 Heaven, and since it’s very dear to my heart, I’m also using this name in my work (see the trailer). I’m a huge fan of J-RPG, Castlevania and NES/SNES games, so I often find inspiration for my games in them.



(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tec2hwrzk44/WQOksdsECKI/AAAAAAAADis/ZlVkDoeGiIAwRY9Bjclp8HbN3meL4KEnwCLcB/s1600/01.png)

Nightkeep is a 2D metroidvania-like platformer with RPG elements set in a fictional medieval fantasy world, accompanied by an original story. Although the game was supposed to consist of individual levels (stage 1, 2, etc), the project soon overgrew and so, the concept was changed.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pJXVtLsH6yw/WQOksfl_uII/AAAAAAAADik/OHRhFnGEkUEq919psnqowamiBFd4SA4sQCLcB/s320/02.png)

The game mechanics are straight from the 90s. With the change of concept, many things were changed and many of them were added, such as a back dash, a slide or a double jump. My main intention is to make a relatively simple game fueled by a compelling story and quests.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAgT9RNpZdQ/WQOksn417wI/AAAAAAAADio/O1NvG5qPRSEzF4b9T7IqARObX1zpJ7xewCLcB/s320/3.png)

By defeating enemies, you receive money and experience points (EXP), which will help you on your journey. The game has a simple levelling system - levelling up partially restores lost health and improves your abilities.

A lot of focus went into power ups, which can permanently increase your max health, etc.  Lastly, I’d like to mention the ability to put gems into your clothing and necklace, which also affect your power and abilities.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59pSKHTcAR8/WQOks2On_GI/AAAAAAAADi0/3ihFLWqsUNEkWc7TIOQsjBq9skbTu5h3QCLcB/s320/4.png)

I’ve already mentioned the basic mechanics, so now I’ll describe the attacks themselves. In the games, there are only two forms of attack. Your primary attack is a sword, which you’ll have throughout the entire campaign. Nightkeep lacks a classic ‘equip’ option, so there’s really no way for you to let go of it anyway. Luckily, however, it’s not your typical sword, as this one has some sort of magical abilities. Therefore, it can change forms while in battle, depending on what gem is inserted into its handle.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/xTiN0tHzvB2GhvqDRe/giphy.gif)

The second attack comes in a form of throwing weapons. Because the main character is a huntress, she has all hunting weapons at her disposal (such as throwing knives, axes or the latest invention of the Goblin workshop). That’d be too easy, however, and so every weapon also has its own level, which can be increased (by fulfilling certain tasks). Not only does a higher level increase the weapon’s attributes, but also changes its visual form.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_dLEdV6yo-k/WQOks62hMCI/AAAAAAAADiw/BR2a6VM7ttUdNMqdGOagtcZ4ziBR7S1dwCLcB/s320/5.png)

Since I like RPG games, and have only made RPG games in the past, this game wouldn’t be complete without many different items you can find. Nightkeep has its items divided into 4 sections - consumables, general, relics and gemstones. The game holds over 60 different items you can come across during your playthrough of the campaign. They can be found in chests, secret rooms or in the corpses of your enemies. For example, slugs can drop Slime Glue, spiders can drop Spider Silk and skeletons can outright lose their head sometimes. For now, the items don’t have much of a use, which I intend to fix soon. Also, some of the rarer monsters can even drop mighty relics!

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlREq9BtzIo/WQOks30qZ9I/AAAAAAAADi4/y70_X7zKlNg9jNuuXoE_OWc7taLnKMRnwCLcB/s320/6.png)

You play as Arietta, a huntress. She’s more of a lone wolf and eve though hunters usually hunt in groups, Arietta has her own approach. The world has its own mythology and history. The story opens up with Arietta arriving in a faraway village Nightkeep. The story is still being worked on and I’d like not to spoil more of it, at least not until the game is released.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R1ADCqGaRTI/WQRhMEcUdPI/AAAAAAAADjQ/6wn9FqgZodwj5fPA29cQNL31tZ-Vi7bGACLcB/s1600/sprites%2Ball.gif)

For now, here’s a snippet of the prologue:

"...In the event of the Calamity, everyone has their purpose, and making a run for it is as good as committing suicide. It's in times like these, when people stay together, that the hunters are a sword and shield. In the world where people learned to live among monsters, everyone has their place. Whether you're a blacksmith or a hunter, you can't live without each other. Just imagine a hunter without a proper weapon, or a blacksmith running out of business. Both would fall into oblivion..."

In the game, players will progress through quests, be it the main quests or side quests. Since you play as Arietta, which loves rewards, it is a matter of course you’ll recieve  your fair share or every quest you complete (or will you?). An integral part of this is exploration, so do expect some backtracking (not a lot, though). Last but not least, the world also holds many secret rooms and rare monsters. Bosses are a no-brainer, either those, that stand between you and accomplishing your main quest, or those, that you won’t have to fight.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EAkSDpw42iQ/WQOktdWAjGI/AAAAAAAADi8/MRyvqrtH81EONx_ZK8rKSnod4Rek0br2QCLcB/s320/7.png)

PixelABCD
The entire game is basically being done by me - I do all the pixelart, the programming and design of the entire game, including the story. The game has been in the works since 2015 and it’s just a hobby of mine, so I won’t even dare to guess the release date.

Thomas J. Peters
Recently, I was joined by Thomas J. Peters, who is responsible for the trailer music (https://soundcloud.com/tpcomposer/ (https://soundcloud.com/tpcomposer/)). If the development goes well, he’ll also be the guy behind the entire Nightkeep soundtrack.

Thomas Schmied
As I’m not a native English speaker, the text is being translated by Thomas Schmied, who’ll also be translating the finished game. Thomas is a volunteer and without his enthusiasm, I wouldn’t be able to continue.

Thank you very much for any form of support if the game interests you! You can follow me and the development over on Twitter as well (https://twitter.com/PixelABCD (https://twitter.com/PixelABCD)).

Game can be tracked also with facebook, indiedb and youtube. All links can be found here http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=914989247 (http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=914989247)

I hope someone will like it here ! Game is for MS windows.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on May 06, 2017, 11:06:17 PM
This game looks familiar. I think we might have talked about it a while ago though.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Aridale on May 07, 2017, 03:57:01 PM
yeah didnt you release a short alpha demo here a while back? I still have it on my desktop!
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on May 08, 2017, 12:34:05 AM
Oh, yes! It was old alpha demo (buried in the offtopic, I moved to fanwork), I improved some core things like jump feel, recoded subweapons, etc. It's more polished in current version and I am adding more stuff into the game. Menus are also overhauled, etc.

for example, even the old menu in this screen didnt make it into that alpha demo of the game.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C_OJsiLXsAAfu-D.jpg)

I am trying to create better experience. I played that demo like month ago too, but I can tell the difference already.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: theplottwist on May 08, 2017, 01:35:12 AM
Man

Is there somewhere where I can follow your art?
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Dracula9 on May 08, 2017, 01:38:07 AM
Man

Is there somewhere where I can follow your art?

Gratuitously seconded. That aesthetic and style is beautiful.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on May 08, 2017, 03:57:19 AM
Man

Is there somewhere where I can follow your art?
https://twitter.com/PixelABCD (https://twitter.com/PixelABCD) is my twitter, https://www.youtube.com/user/Reabezion/ (https://www.youtube.com/user/Reabezion/) I have some spriting vids here as well.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: zangetsu468 on May 08, 2017, 09:01:05 AM
I'm seriously getting a Castlevania x Skyward Sword (impressionist) vibe here. Especially with statue at the start of the vid. Great work :)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on May 08, 2017, 09:47:46 AM
Quote
Oh, yes! It was old alpha demo

Ah! That was it. Nice to know it hasn't been forgotten since this game of yours interesting  :)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: RichterBelmont12 on May 13, 2017, 04:14:27 PM
ooooh....I may keep an eye on this project :) Maybe once the game is finished I can Let's Play it on my Channel :D
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 09, 2017, 05:15:27 AM
Hi,
it's been some time since I last posted some info to my castlevania-inspired project. I really enjoyed playing NES and SNES games when I was a kid and I wish to bring 90's mechanics with
SNES vibe project. I quite enjoyed games where you had just few skills and moved towards the end of the stage. While Nightkeep isn't quite so simple, I am trying to keep its mechanics in the similar way, that it resembles NES/SNES play and doesn't overhelm players with hundreds of weapons and mechancis.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRnyfmUCxi0/Wa-3ywk9q7I/AAAAAAAADn0/LPiqGtai9KgXgpjoE_U3syB3o48SXmJDgCLcBGAs/s1600/FORESTASZ.gif)

My goal is to have realtively simple game driven by story, allowing player to level up and also to upgrade his gear over time. (no I wont translate game myself...)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vHsoNuKc9fs/WbPZ6Qi0MwI/AAAAAAAADoE/um1agmYcghgaRypOtTPpjHb9hu6NrSqhQCLcBGAs/s1600/rare.gif)
*Drop of rare monsters will work differently than common drop

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJOF5EpWmRA/Wahq_lAjiAI/AAAAAAAADnY/kNhpedMDKT4qc9G11bW5yK9RMKBbZNbCQCLcBGAs/s1600/edrt%2B2017-08-31%2B21-46-54-60.gif)
*Tutorial area, that's where you learn thath LEFT key moves you to left. lol.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0HYEDyTJ6fU/WZLpwqSdIBI/AAAAAAAADm4/9XICpOcW5wgnTUHWALV7lQPbdGG0kB9JwCLcBGAs/s1600/throne%2Broomd%2Bgif.gif)
*Nyros Tyren, Sour greybeard

I will have demo ready this november with more info about game itself.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: ProjectDread on September 09, 2017, 10:45:40 AM
Looks very nice, I can't wait to give it a try! If you don't mind me asking what software are you using to develop this game?
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 09, 2017, 12:35:22 PM
Thanks, glad you like the work so far! Game is made with clickteam fusion.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: ProjectDread on September 09, 2017, 02:18:45 PM
Thanks, glad you like the work so far! Game is made with clickteam fusion.

No problem. I myself use Clickteam Fusion, so it's inspiring seeing people out there making awesome looking games like this with it. 
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: theANdROId on September 09, 2017, 08:32:32 PM
So when can I own this?! ;-)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 10, 2017, 12:22:45 AM
Thats hard to tell... I am not native english speaker, so whole process is slowed down. I am working on Czech version of the game myself, but I will hire translator to translate demo texts. I am afraid with my English there would be 5times more of grammar bugs than necessary. So I use another person for translation of English version and he's somewhat busy. But as I wrote I will share demo this november.

I plan to go crowdfunding too with info why I need it. I actually have original music in project, not royal free. Give at least try to the demo when I release it. But I cant tell date of release now.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: theANdROId on September 10, 2017, 11:28:40 AM
No pressure or anything!  I said that more to imply that it looks really great and that I want it, and not so much that I'm looking for a specific release date! ;-)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 11, 2017, 09:58:03 AM
Ah  ;) I understand. You know in English I take everything as questions. Haha, I have not such sense in this language.  :rollseyes:
I just finished English tutorlal for Rare monsters and I like the direction I am turning the game around its bit old-fashioned... but happy to announce that Thomas Schmied joined back the team and will translate the demo onwards. There shouldnt be any extra delays till november.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: AdrianTepes on September 11, 2017, 05:22:56 PM
As someone interested on game developing, the amount of things you have done in only 2 years is amazing.
All the art looks amazing, and the gameplay looks fun, plus everything looks very polished.
Keep it up with this great work, and hope to hear more news about it soon!
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on October 22, 2017, 05:13:02 PM
Hi,

I am coming with a quick update on the development. I am having demo ready, it's just waiting for translation now. I would like to release it next month.If you played the old demo, there are some new adjustments as I tried to make it a bit better. It's still a relatively simple game, but that was the original goal anyway. No hundreds of skills, I am aiming at more SNES-like play. But yeah, there are some equips, yet I am not sure if I will add these in demo.

Anyway, I bring two images with me, that I didn't share here.

*new logo
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77njvm-_hMc/WcqOfUOuYKI/AAAAAAAADpw/uR3svBLiqCEPC9OZ74ypra-eMuFKm7pAwCLcBGAs/s1600/trashdd6.gif)
*castle entrace ( I edited roots after this gif, slightly.)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wl1gTOqX8WE/WcqHag16xbI/AAAAAAAADpY/feQjOtGpRgwVsqX1TveS3p4RjFnkPfbOQCLcBGAs/s1600/saddss-98.gif)

Here are links to my social media, nightkeep.rpg2heaven.com (http://nightkeep.rpg2heaven.com/) More info is coming.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 02, 2017, 09:48:52 AM
Hello,

Nightkeep is a project I’ve been working on for the past 2 years. A public alpha demo and a new trailer were just released.

Trailer:



My goal is to merge classic metroidvanias and JRPGs, add a fairytale-like theme and make a platformer, which will bring players 20 years into the past. Inspired by the SNES-era classics such as Castlevania Bloodlines, Demon’s Crest and a number of JRPGs - I’m a big fan of the stories these games tell.

You can get the demo at Indiegogo : https://igg.me/at/keep (https://igg.me/at/keep)
or
Direct Download : http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip (http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip)

Game may has its own flaws and I am trying to catch them -annoying details- based on the feedback. I fixed few things since the demo release and  the demo is ready to be shared here as well. I hope someone will enjoy the game and its direction. Someone may dislike it too, that's fine. I am looking for fans that will provide me with a feedback, so we can improve it and make the good game.

After two years, the project is launching on indiegogo looking for support. If you'd like to help me, consider sharing the Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign over social media! I appreciate it.

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fshuffle2.png&hash=330896c8b800756c4e7d6f7af347ee47)

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fshuffle3.png&hash=51e022081de60f7ef90b642900dfb494)

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fshuffle4.png&hash=b1cd9480879b97a24f71378b41f5d2a2)

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fshuffle.png&hash=e5a06c1924b8b3b9303809313b327bf9)

Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on December 02, 2017, 12:10:12 PM
Nice demo! It does have that classic-esque vibe to it. However there are only some small things I have with it.

1) Transitioning from room to room leaves me standing still like a statue rather then continue onward, and I have to forcibly move in order to continue. This can get frustrating.

2) The difficulty is a little up there. I'm not saying the game should be easy, but a little fine-tuning wouldn't hurt. Plus when I level up my strength should allow for my weapon to do more damage. My character got to either the third or fourth level and her weapon was still doing the same base damage.

3) The climbing and hanging on rope nets is also a bit of a frustration. If I'm not pressing up on the D-pad I should just fall, but instead I still hang there, and when surrounded by enemies it is quite a cause for concern. I feel this game mechanic could also be tweeked a bit to help it function better in the character's favour.

4) All the gold you receive after killing enemies or bashing bushes and haystacks seems to float a little to high for me to acquire them all. Having the gold fall to the ground where I can easily get at it without trying to jump up to impossible heights might work better.

Overall this game was enjoyable and I look forward to the next demo release  ;)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 02, 2017, 12:42:22 PM
Thanks for playing and for detailed feedback X, wish more people cared like this. This kind of feedback is excatly a thing, that will help the development. As I am not native speaker and translation for game is done by other person, I may get a bit confused, so I will ask (not entirely understand Answer 2).


1)  This should be fixed now. But only others can verify it. Demo was reuploaded, link is the same.
Reuploaded it just now. same adress http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip (http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip)

2) So you find difficulty a bit too hard for start  ? Any concrete example.

3) I thought of this, what if this stays the same. But - If you press DOWN+jump you will fall and net will be ignored till you hit the ground.
I think this may be good solution.

4) I thought this popup gold effect is nice :-) I am not sure if I am gonna alter it. However if I get more feedback on gold, its something I should look @. Or relic that auto drags coins to you would be nice.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on December 02, 2017, 09:26:23 PM
Quote
2) So you find difficulty a bit too hard for start  ? Any concrete example.

Sort of. It mainly has to do with the strength of the character; How many hits she can take and how much stronger she gets when levelling up. I think if her attacks got slightly stronger as she levels up would help to offset the difficulty enough. That's my recommendation anyways.

Quote
3) I thought of this, what if this stays the same. But - If you press DOWN+jump you will fall and net will be ignored till you hit the ground.
I think this may be good solution.

You could do it that way too. I'd have to give it a try and see for myself.

Quote
4) I thought this popup gold effect is nice :-) I am not sure if I am gonna alter it. However if I get more feedback on gold, its something I should look @. Or relic that auto drags coins to you would be nice.

The floating gold is not a bad idea. It's just a bit too far away when I need to collect it. The problem could be solved by not having it scatter too far from the character. Be it within reach instead of beyond the character's jumping radius. This would help with the collecting bit.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 03, 2017, 09:18:08 AM
Update on the items. DL of new demo, link is the same.
http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip (http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip)

1) Resolved issue?

2) Weapon Art stands for strength of throwable weapons and sword art will update eventually with level too. Some weapons have extra power and I just added two new into the demo (forest) - I will add more powerups to the game that will increase strength,.. I have them in game already.

3) I did some polish to NET, you can fall down just by holding "Down", I reduced ceiling bounce when on net, and lowered strength when u just stroke Down once, so you will slightly decrease.

4) Floating gold ?? No, no. It should never be floaty, coins fall to ground. I thought you find them jump too high before they start to fall.

Now I might know what happened. I updated Developer's software Clickteam fusion recently and the last update messed my physic codes. Probably?

I returned to the previous version of developer software = problem with gold solved. Gold never should stay in the air .
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on December 03, 2017, 07:39:23 PM
Just tried your recent demo update. The gold issue is still 'up in the air' if you get my meaning, lol. During the intro stage when you first start the game I got some gold and it fell to earth as it should have. But after that stage the gold went right back to floating again. Moneybags too. I also discovered another bug where I jumped through one of the open doors (to the rat boss I believe) and I got stuck behind the wall and started scrolling upwards. I couldn't get free  :-\

The good news? The net climbing is much better. It seems to work so I doubt you need to adjust it further. Plus the room-to-room transition is smooth as we see it in other Metroid-like games. These issues as far as I can tell are put to bed.

Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 03, 2017, 08:33:02 PM
Thanks for getting back to me so quickly X !

1) Fixed! Money - I caused this by adding new auto save, I moved line somewhere I shouldn't and I didn't notice this. All works.
2) Fixed! No more stuck at boss room, feel free to jump as u wish.

I just need to upload (did) right file, and it's ready.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on December 05, 2017, 10:52:48 AM
Tried the new demo update. Looks like all the issues i mentioned have been dealt with  :)  Gold functions as it should too. Keep your fingers crossed that it stays that way eh? Good luck on finishing your project  8)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 05, 2017, 11:11:33 AM
Glad I fixed it, it was a bit unlucky to happen at its release :) But it's not a big deal I fixed it all.
-
I also updated Jump today. Minimum and maximum height differs based on key press. And added new sword attack for basic weapon that no longer force you to bend the knee to kill the rat. It's more enjoyable that way.
-
If anyone wants to help the indiegogo campaign, consider sharing it over social media https: //igg. me/at/keep (http://https: //igg. me/at/keep) - Very much appreciated.

Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 17, 2017, 09:13:40 AM
Hi, please support Nightkeep through Thunderclap (it's free)! Go to the Thunderclap campaign http://thndr.me/Abef88 (http://thndr.me/Abef88) and select any of the 3 options: Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr. Thank you!

New combat prototype. Combat is based on stamina now, but don’t worry. Lack of stamina will never stop you. You can still attack normally. Stamina adds great aid to the current Gemstone system that I plan to expand as well. With stamina Arietta will be able to perform combos, charge attacks, to use different attacks with the same gemstone and it will also help to balance otherwise overpowered stuff. Oh, by the way one you see in the GIF is just your basic sword, no gemstone equipped - it is just that stab, stab forward weapon you know from the demo.

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fgif1.gif&hash=3c0da84a1682035c82b60f2bfee258d5)

It's quite difficult to spread a word about the game. I have 6 days left on Thunderclap.
Any support via it is very much appreciated!
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on December 17, 2017, 10:45:28 AM
Nice combo  :)  Simplistic, but it gets the job done nicely as it should. Way too many games nowadays go overboard with combos (lords of shadow to name an example), however this looks good. It is simple and it works.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 17, 2017, 10:51:07 AM
It is as simple as it could be :rollseyes:

you 2x tap for double combo, 3x tap for triple combo. when you have no stamina to perfom next move, combo ends. and if you are very low on stamina, you only do basic stab. it's really simple but effective. However Stamina is connected only to sword attacks, so performing any other actions won't decrease it.
(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fgifx1.gif&hash=d6252307cc6a7fe7856193a45a01e253)
I can add charges and special stuff for gemstones(other swords) like this.

-----
Support Nightkeep through Thunderclap (it's free)! Go to the Thunderclap campaign http://thndr.me/Abef88 (http://thndr.me/Abef88) and select any of the 3 options: Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr. I should use it as a signature  :D



Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on December 21, 2017, 03:22:37 AM
So holidays are coming, I hope you will enjoy them and have a good start with a New year. I am adding last build this year, I will take a bit off development too during the upcoming events.

New build contains version up to current date.

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnightkeep.rpg2heaven.com%2Fimg%2Fcombo.gif&hash=80188bf7245c16558fcefb4cbb0ca79e)

Download : http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip (http://rpg2heaven.com//downloads/nightkeep_abuild_01.zip)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on May 12, 2018, 09:58:48 AM
Hi,
It's been some time since I tried to fund Nightkeep ( https://gamejolt.com/games/Nightkeep/303200 (https://gamejolt.com/games/Nightkeep/303200) ). Ongoing events weren't so good for me so I had to rethink some steps. After all this time I decided to postpone Nightkeep. I am now trying to make its funding happen by other smaller games that I will do on my own. Anyway give a demo a try. It is after all influenced by Castlevania too.

Who i am again ?

Game dev hobbyist from Czech republic. Creating games over a decade, I worked with RPG maker a lot before I decided to move off to create full custom games.

What is Armortale?


2D platformer inspired by hidden gem, Lickle (Little Samson)
I am working with Nes palette + I drive in some custom colors
Game will contain separated stages with boss at the end of each
Game for MS Windows with full Gamepad Support
Works well with Wine

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rpg2heaven.com%2Fpic%2Farm01.gif&hash=e5c3d346f17cf387a0dc14f291c43a01)


Why I am creating Armortale?

Nightkeep project failed its crowdfunding campaign, this didn’t allow me to progress further /music, additional art, translaton/ and I allowed myself to get burned by negativity. I decided to start small-scale 0 budget project, that I would be able to handle myself - maybe with some small help. This project is Armortale.

(https://i.gjcdn.net/data/fireside/posts/5/117/359117/media/untitled-ti9zw5vr.png)

Goals of Armortale

(https://i.gjcdn.net/data/fireside/posts/5/117/359117/media/gif01-rfxngdfd.gif)

While Nightkeep is project I wanted to complete, I spent my savings on it. It led me to bad situation. I’d like to use Armortale to partially cover my loses. Games aren’t my work. Just spare time hobby.

This probably won't iterest majority here therefore I won't post more of this on this forum. You can see some small progress of this over my twitter, https://twitter.com/PixelABCD (https://twitter.com/PixelABCD)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: NightKeeper on June 04, 2021, 12:59:35 PM
Wasn't here for a moment. Not always easy to find spare time for this hobby and latest years were bit hectic too. So it goes at pace it goes. Turtle one (considering this is a reboot too).

I started anew on the game last summer from zero - with an empty build. Left all code, game structure, every map, enemy, basically all I had behind. Re-creating everything, assets and code included.

I can share some early alpha footage here from this latest version of the game:

(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/232182069613035521/787441971039436850/3ee.gif)
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/472434048057212949/781595280692346880/3ee.gif)
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/472434048057212949/785635261974839356/3ee.gif)
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/722105883336638585/781998936226660382/3ee.gif)

https://twitter.com/PixelABCD
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on June 04, 2021, 06:21:23 PM
Been a while  :)

Hopefully you get to complete your project so others can enjoy it too.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Chernabogue on June 06, 2021, 12:59:11 PM
That looks amazing!
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Darkmoon on June 07, 2021, 09:19:17 AM
Wasn't here for a moment. Not always easy to find spare time for this hobby and latest years were bit hectic too. So it goes at pace it goes. Turtle one (considering this is a reboot too).

I started anew on the game last summer from zero - with an empty build. Left all code, game structure, every map, enemy, basically all I had behind. Re-creating everything, assets and code included.

I can share some early alpha footage here from this latest version of the game

If you're interested, I'd be happy to feature you on Castlevania: The Inverted Dungeon. Preview page, interview, the like.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on June 11, 2021, 06:06:26 AM
If you're interested, I'd be happy to feature you on Castlevania: The Inverted Dungeon. Preview page, interview, the like.

That'd be great! Thank you for this offer, I'd like to grab it with both hands.  ;)

I have not much material to build on now, I'd very welcome this opportunity later tho when I have it!
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Darkmoon on June 11, 2021, 07:42:28 PM
Sure, whenever you're ready I'm around. You can message me here, or grab my contact info from the site and hit me up that way as well.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 06, 2023, 10:29:54 AM
Hello, the project was on hold for a while, but now I've returned to it, and I'm sending two pictures of the current progress.

You can also find me on twitter @ https://twitter.com/PixelABCD

(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/722105883336638585/1147168261620903966/Animation4.gif)

(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/722105883336638585/1146500809660575764/Animation1.gif)

Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Think Tank on September 06, 2023, 06:20:17 PM
Stunning work.
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: X on September 06, 2023, 11:25:23 PM
Been a while...again  ;D
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: BMC_War Machine on September 07, 2023, 02:35:11 PM
Nice!! 8)
Title: Re: Nightkeep, 2D metroidvania RPG
Post by: Nightale on September 09, 2023, 05:20:07 AM
Hello, it's been 3 weeks since I resumed work on Nightkeep. I'm trying to work on the game whenever I can. In these 3 weeks, I've made it to the castle and created a few initial rooms. I've also set my sights on the old graveyard in front of the castle, which I'm currently working on. I'm attaching an image of the graveyard and the crypt within it.

(https://c10.patreonusercontent.com/4/patreon-media/p/post/89008021/394fa044e1ba4fedb6bf6b86a6bedabe/e30%3D/1.gif?token-time=1695513600&token-hash=kM-2I2dcmQTJPNlqyIh9oHYB8n36vtmpTQ2HWfdwa-I%3D)

*Graveyard

As for the story, I'll have to rework it because I discarded everything from the original Nightkeep. Those who played the demo may remember the village in distress, the alchemist conducting experiments in his mansion, and the fact that Arietta (the main heroine) wasn't alone and had a sister accompanying her. That has changed. Arietta is now alone, and I need to come up with a reason why she's climbing that castle when everyone says it's full of monsters.

(https://c10.patreonusercontent.com/4/patreon-media/p/post/89008021/5dde51ce4b40479c9bfbe0dd011f4255/e30%3D/1.png?token-time=1695513600&token-hash=PkyOnM_KzmTojXAFQEav8bUX9z5u89lLyULFfckNGgE%3D)

*Crypt Entrace

One thing that's been bothering me is the choice of resolution, which I've increased. I chose a resolution of 480x270, which means the sprite sizes remained the same, resulting in a lot of unused space on the game screen that I'm trying to fill somehow or expand the rooms with extra tilesets. It's not something that can be easily reversed or changed.

Otherwise, the project has a Discord, and you can find it here: http://discord.gg/SFHmz6B (http://discord.gg/SFHmz6B)

I'm closing version 0.20 today, the complete change log is on my Discord.
That's all from me for now.