Software: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
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
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
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."[2] ModDB reviewed version 0.909 and praised the game's concept, describing the visuals as "crazy 3D Geometry Wars on acid". Criticisms included the poor frame rate, incomplete Vista 64-bit support and lack of a windowed mode.[3]
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.[4] Hovey used the user name Paul Richard.[5]
See also
- Procedural generation
- Psychedelic art
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Ciolek, Todd (April 14, 2009). "Interview: The Secrets of SYNTH, 'Weirdest Video Game Ever Created'". Gamasutra. http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=23130.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Meer, Alec (March 30, 2009). "SYNTH: Maths in Action". Rock, Paper, Shotgun. http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2009/03/30/synth-maths-in-action/. Retrieved 2009-08-04.
- ↑ "Modcast". ModDB (Podcast). 2009-02-02. Event occurs at 16:15. Retrieved 2009-08-05.
- ↑ Lowry, Kelly (November 30, 2010). "Congratulations to the winners in the professional category of Level Up 2010!". Intel Software Network. http://software.intel.com/en-us/blogs/2010/11/30/congratulations-to-the-winners-in-the-professional-category-of-level-up-2010/. Retrieved 2010-12-03.
- ↑ Toblo.gif. http://software.intel.com/file/30831.
External links
- Synth at ModDB
- Game Review (Moddb Podcast)
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