Synth (video game)
| SYNTH | |
|---|---|
| Developer(s) | Rhys Paul Hovey |
| Platform(s) | Microsoft Windows |
| Release | 2009 |
| Genre(s) | Action, real-time strategy |
| Mode(s) | Single-player |
Synth is an action real-time strategy video game by Canadian developer Rhys Paul Hovey for Microsoft Windows. Synth is an abstract and procedurally generated 3D game, in which the graphics have an algorithmic C++ representation.
Gameplay
[edit]Synth is a strategic action game, in which the player must find an exit in a procedurally generated landscape. The player is equipped with a laser, bombs, and a device that acts as a vacuum or blower. The overall goal is to reach the highest level possible.[1]
Synth uses C++ algorithms to generate the level's structure and graphics. Levels are seeded from four-letter words: for example, "BGNI" is the first level.[1] As the game does not need to store pre-rendered textures and model data, only small filesizes are required.[2]
Synth's drum and bass synthesizer soundtrack dynamically changes during the game. The sounds were pre-composed by Hovey, but the player's controls are mapped to a loop-sequence remixer.[1]
Development
[edit]Hovey cites the artwork of Roger Dean (who produced the covers for several Psygnosis titles), other Amiga graphics, and Pink Floyd as influences for Synth's imagery.[1]
Synth is currently only available as a game demo. Once a full version is ready, Hovey intends to acquire a digital distribution deal.[1]
Critical reception
[edit]Todd Ciolek, an editor with Gamasutra made reference to the game's experimental design: "Rhys Paul Hovey’s SYNTH is an experimental game in many ways".[1] Rock, Paper, Shotgun drew comparisons with the visuals of Darwinia and the procedural nature of .kkrieger. The graphics were described as fascinating: "a bizarre, mesmerizing cross between the deeply archaic and the thoroughly high-tech."
In November 2010, SYNTH:Electropix 64 bit version 1.505, won 1st place in the Intel corporation's "Level up" 2010 game demo contest, in the "Best game for a desktop" category.[3] Hovey used the user name Paul Richard.[4]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f Ciolek, Todd (April 14, 2009). "Interview: The Secrets of SYNTH, 'Weirdest Video Game Ever Created'". Gamasutra.
- ^ Meer, Alec (March 30, 2009). "SYNTH: Maths in Action". Rock, Paper, Shotgun. Retrieved 2009-08-04.
- ^ Lowry, Kelly (November 30, 2010). "Congratulations to the winners in the professional category of Level Up 2010!". Intel Software Network. Retrieved 2010-12-03.
- ^ "Toblo.gif".
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