SpaceQuest
Team
Bryan Trujillo, Eoin Nugent, John Shaughnessy, Ethan Kenny
High Concept Statement/Game Description
The player explores the galaxy by moving through increasingly complex finite state machines. Each finite state machine is made up of stars for nodes, and the connections form connected constellations. The player chooses a sequence of colored space ships that, based on their colors, can travel along various colored paths between stars.
The object of the game is to enter the correct sequence of ships that reach a specified goal. There may be multiple goals within a constellation, and the player can choose between them. Different goals may lead to different constellations, planets, solar systems, etc.
As the player progresses through the game, he/she can unlock new spaceships, as well as the option for longer sequences. Both of these options increase the number of maps available to the player.
Features
- Space exploration driven gameplay
- Educational benefit
- Upgraded gameplay available (additional spaceships, maps)
- Minigames
Pedagogical Strength
The player will learn how finite state machines work, and will get a deeper appreciation for what inputs a specific finite state machine will accept. This will be disguised behind a game, so the player will not even realize how much they’ve learned because of all the fun they’re having!
The game is targeted at middle school children, and we assume no prior knowledge fo finite state machines. Therefore, we will introduce the mechanics of finite state machines within the context of our game. This game will be effective primarily because the underlying concepts studied are hidden; students will not be intimidated by the underlying theoretical concepts because they will see it as a space adventure game. The game is designed to be played as an accompaniment to a class on finite state machines as per our discussion with the client; therefore, we do not need to make explicit the finite state machine concepts and terminology that the player is manipulating.
Competitive Summary
Players sail between islands, with the goal of reaching Treasure Island. Each island has two departing ships, and the players have to choose which one to use. The players can’t see the departing ship and their destinations until they reach the island. The goal is to determine all possible paths that reach Treasure Island (or possibly the quickest path). One of the drawbacks of this activity is that the players are for the most part simply exploring the map blindly, not trying to “solve” it. Another drawback is that there is only one map to play, and no larger goal.
Manufactoria is a finite state machine simulation game; it uses a manufacturing/robotic theme, with different manufacturing components to illustrate how to create a finite state machine that accepts a particular input. There are a number of levels that branch outwards in a tree-like structure, with different paths that the user can choose from to play the next level. The game has a steep learning curve; there is a tutorial, but it is very easy to skip. The early puzzles are too difficult, making it hard to engage with the game.
Overview:
Player Motivation
The player will be motivated to continue playing the game to get high scores, beat the current level, etc. as competitive elements to the game. The player will also be motivated to finish the game by exploring the entire galaxy.
Genre
Puzzle/educational
Target Customer
Middle schoolers (6th graders), with some basic understanding of FSMs, although the game should be accessible to people of all ages and experience levels.