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Secrets of Science - Chapter 1: No Time to Lose!

Archive: 50 posts

Hey Guys!

I just posted a good old Point'n Click adventure for your enjoyment!

If you have nostalgic memories of games like Day of the Tentacle and the rebooted Monkey Island and Sam&Max series you are guaranteed to enjoy this!

For instructions on how to play, scroll to the bottom of this post!

Latest update 3/13/2011:

- Enabled for spectators.

There are now, as far as I know no major game breaking bugs. Thanks to you guys!
If you however stumble upon any issues, feel free to either PM me or add a post.
Thanks alot for the awesome feedback which has motivated me for going through with expanding this series.

Important message to all players:

Before you claim that the level is "broken", please make sure that you actually are doing what you're supposed to do according to the walkthrough. (http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/entry.php?3328-Walkthrough-for-Secrets-of-Science-Chapter-1)

Some screenshots:


Rich enviroment ready to be explored

http://ia.lbp.me/img/ft/dfaba6a3b5f69a38e6b336cc32ee7fca0d47df3d.jpg

Puzzles

http://ia.lbp.me/img/ft/eda87434678e465ccff6b3511ac3786d951939c3.jpg

Dramatic cutscenes

http://i4.lbp.me/img/ft/b34af0aa55bea6d1ca5cd1d95015616936e8e982.jpg

And a nutty professor with underground laboratories!

http://ie.lbp.me/img/ft/baeebb08f8fd4faba1f96f8bd31e833f4c554847.jpg


How to play:

For those unfamiliar with PnC logic, the aim is to navigate and explore the environment with the "mouse cursor".
When your encounter points of interest, bracets will appear around them. Then you can:
Press SQUARE to LOOK at the objects.
Press CROSS to interact with them and/or pick them up.

The inventory is opened by pressing R1.

Here you choose the object you want to use with CROSS. This will close the inventory, but it can also be closed with CIRCLE.

When holding an object, press CROSS to attempt to use it with points of interest.
Press CIRCLE to cancel and go back to explore mode.

Luv!
http://lbp.me/v/xq9-2f		2011-02-14 20:53:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

So far, based on feedback from other websites, the following will be adressed ASAP:

- The inventory system will be totally rebuilt, but based on the original build. This will also be implemented in Chapter 2, which is well on it's way.
It was basically what I built first, and at that time I wasn't fully aware of how all the tools worked yet.
- The pointer will be fitted with a follower that makes it easier to find it again after going back and forth between locations.
- Some of the action zones needs a little tweaking.

Come on guys, feedback 		2011-02-19 11:30:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Hey, I'm sure I posted some feedback. Where did that post go?2011-02-19 11:33:00

Author:
blizzard_cool
Posts: 752

@Blizzard_cool: It was probably the other post. The one that wasn't F4F.
Still it wouldn't hurt to get some opinions. I sure would like to get some more plays, that is. Still haven't cracked that secret... How to get plays.		2011-02-19 17:27:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Well leave some feedback on other F4F levels and you'll probably get some in return.
You've got the pics covered...

Well, just be patient, it normally comes as yopu keep on creating 		2011-02-20 15:00:00

Author:
blizzard_cool
Posts: 752

A very well done point and click adventure. I like how you really feel like you're a part of the world and not just a floating cursor. The visuals were great, but could use some tweaking. Maybe more things to click and interact with would be neat, there's potential for a lot of funny dialogue.
Nice work and good luck with the rest of the series!

F4F is in sig.		2011-02-20 16:43:00

Author:
Sack-Jake
Posts: 1153

**** MAJOR UPDATE ****

- The "mouse pointer" now moves the camera which makes for a much smoother transition.
- The inventory is more cooperative, but still there are issues. Known bug: The inventory camera does not turn itself off when an item is chosen. Solution: Just move the pointer to the sides and the camera is changing view.
- FULL SPEECH!!!

Known bug: Due to latency in the logic, when using items from the inventory in the environment, you may have to click a couple of times to get the girl to react.

I was hoping to be able to have a cinematic trailer from Chapter 2 up and running by the end of the night, but this latest patch kept me occupied, but I'll post as soon as I have something!		2011-02-21 00:19:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

i liked it a lot, you should continue like you announced

works well and i have nothing to say except that it is good. sadly it is short. but you allready said its full... i wonder what takes so much space?
only bug i found is you can get the points multiple times just click on it again...

~FW

if you like you can do a short review bout my level as well:
https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=49851-LUMINES-Puzzle-Fusion-4.0
thank you		2011-02-21 01:48:00

Author:
ForcesWerwolf
Posts: 475

Mmm... A point and click adventure. Queued, and will leave review ingame.

Just check out my F4F thread when you get the opportunity ^^
https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=49476-Defend-the-Castle!-%28Looking-for-Pointers-Suggestions%29		2011-02-21 01:57:00

Author:
Unknown User

The level was brilliant, even though I got stuck on some parts on what to do. All of the problems I found are already mentioned above so it's all good.2011-02-21 09:50:00

Author:
TheDesertDrifter
Posts: 72

Thanks guys! Am playing your levels as we speak.

It's the darndest thing though.. After the update I'm not able to perform the same tasks twice, but apparantly this isn't the issue with every play.

Ok... more toggles to switch out with counters.... Hm.... Retracing the colored wire.. It should be possible to see where a wire is coming from, and not just where it's going!		2011-02-21 20:34:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Man, I'm unlucky: the first time I played it, I got stuck as soon as I used the bouce pad: the character was following the cursor when I pressed X, but didn't manage to turn on the lights; the second time the character got stuck in the left corner of the first room and the inventory didn't work; the third time I lost the cursor when getting down from the roof, and the 4th time it happened again, but I managed to recover it (looks like I had control of the cursor on the 1st floor while I was on the 2nd floor); lastly, on my 4th run, I had some trouble with using the keycard, but after several attempts, I managed to finish the level. For testing/debug purposes, please add a secret shortcut to skip the opening sequence, so it won't be this frustrating to do everything from the beginning should something go wrong.

Now, to the actual level: it's a very cool concept, but the logic isn't as stable as it should be, I don't see myself playing it again when it's this unstable; still, it has a lot of potential, and could become a masterpiece if well implemented; the speech is great and funny, and the characters are likable; the Point and click feeling was very strong and the level managed to grasp it greatly. I look forward to the completed project, should you decide to complete it.

For F4F, http://lbp.me/v/x30y03		2011-02-21 21:33:00

Author:
Shadowheaven
Posts: 378

@Shadowheaven: The bugs you are mentioning has now been ironed out!
- The pointer(s)(gonna get rid of one of them in the next update) have followers that directs it to the player
- The item routines have been rewired to prevent multiple usage.
- The bounce pad routine has been rewired and should be working satisfactory.

And as a bonus, a screenshot from Secrets of Science - Chapter 2: The nuclear what...?
(hopefully there will be a cinematic trailer up by the end of the week.. just depends on how much I'm going to work)

http://ia.lbp.me/img/ft/26a5411f5014d72a44e88c69e2e0b6a2deca4fdf.jpg		2011-02-22 00:44:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

The level is a good set up with for the story and gameplay type, there are a good amount of steps to go through to get to the end for this type of introduction.

The sets are detailed and give a good sense of location but considering it is basically two rooms long this may or may not be a difficult thing. The screen shot for the next level is looking good so I think that you've got a good handle on set design. I'm looking forward to seeing where the story goes and how the adventure continues.

The cursor is well implemented but the collision detection and the camera angle is tricky for some areas. The cursor appears to be below some areas that are getting highlighting in particular the drawer with the jump pad (Or the drawer to the left.)

The voice acting is done well and gives some character to the story and the cut-scenes are also well executed.

It looks like the inventory does not work in the telescope room as it is was actually open in the office area when I came back down. Also the Cancel/Use holo material is very bright and was hard to read the words clearly without a bit of work.

This has a good foundation and hopefully you've already cut your teeth on the tech and methodology so that the next level(s) are easier to put together on your side.

Cheers		2011-02-22 01:17:00

Author:
Trindall
Posts: 297

Queued up - looks great! Will leave fb2011-02-22 03:43:00

Author:
MDAZZO
Posts: 15

I liked it! Very nice story and some nice puzzles too! Only downside is that you can't access the inventory upstairs. Overall great and I'll be waiting for the sequel!2011-02-24 14:03:00

Author:
Potunator
Posts: 58

Hi! I just played your level and I thought it was really good. This is the first time I have played a level like yours, very unique and I liked the idea that you had to search different places to continue the sequence. Excellent story, too. 2011-02-24 16:12:00

Author:
creator22
Posts: 162

Update:

- There is now, after hours of rewiring, swearing, smoking and kicking stuff around, only one cursor! Puh.
- Added a sound signal to let the player know that she/he has done something right when manipulating the environment with inventory items. Kachiing!

Please let me know if any new bugs arises.

- The teaser trailer for Chapter 2 is now out there, and here are a couple of screens:

http://ib.lbp.me/img/ft/65b04580e6ceb26feac56b93829df4fca7c2fb37.jpg

http://i4.lbp.me/img/ft/1442b2e2b1addbd1af2c65a4f4f7d29f7a697c03.jpg		2011-02-25 02:24:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

If there's enough swearing, smoking and violence, it could be pulled down. Just reminding you that this is an E-rated game.2011-02-25 12:17:00

Author:
creator22
Posts: 162

Yeah, creator_22, smoking is for everyone And as long as the violence and swearing is directed at inanimate objects and furniture, I guess I'm in the clean zone?2011-02-26 12:08:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Just played this and thought it was awesome. I wouldn't have even thought to make a point and click adventure in LBP, nor would I have thought one could be made that works this well. You must have wires going everywhere in this thing. I echo what a few other people said - good characters and voice acting, good concepts and environment, etc.

The only issues I had were minor usability issues (I've obviously played the updated version with some of the bugs already worked out). It would be nice if the inventory had a solid background, to make the items and the slots easier to see, or to make it more obvious that it's empty. The first time I opened it, I had no items and so I was just zoomed in on the TV area and it looked like it was kind of gliching out on the TV controls. An actual inventory "screen" with a "O to close" icon would alleviate this. I'm picturing something like the pulldown menu in the Zelda 1-1 level, if you've seen that.

The X and O icons on the inventory use UI were also hard to read. Oh and did the SWAT guys say "Crash out"? I thought it was suppose to be "Flash out" (you know...for flash grenades...)

Part two looks nice as well - seems like you get out of the house and see some action.

Thumbs up.		2011-02-27 06:13:00

Author:
Roo5676
Posts: 62

@Roo: The separate inventory screen is in the works! And when it comes to the flash vs. crash - Crash is also a short for flashbang.2011-02-27 06:21:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Hey i really loved your level the story was interesting and the difficulty is just right in my opinion. The visuals and voice acting are great too. Cant wait for part 2.2011-02-27 10:40:00

Author:
hitman_472
Posts: 52

hi, i really enjoyed this level,and was dissapointed when it ended lol,the voice acting and visuals are great and i cant think of any way to improve,cant wait to play the rest of it2011-02-28 16:27:00

Author:
gigglecrab
Posts: 232

I played your level and I thought it looked good. The opening scene was cool and the point and click seemed ok at first.

That being said, I had tons of problems. I picked-up that thing in the middle of the floor that I figure should go in the computer thingy on the far right?(bottom room) but in my inventory I don't think it ever selected. i would click on it and nothing would happen. I would move my mouse after clicking it and I can't tell if it's selected, but I click the computer several times and it keeps saying something is missing.

The inventory, when selected the mouse is just whereever it is. it should snap into view of the inventory
You should make it obvious when something is selected and active. Possibly keep the holo sqaure around it, maybe even change the pointer to that item's shape


At the top room, the code. What is it? Is it the code in the drawer? because I punched that in several times and nothing happened. Are you supposed to punch in the code then click on something? If so, what? Did I break the code by entering the wrong number then the number from the drawer? If you enter a 3-diget code, THEN the correct number will it still work? If you mash a ton of numbers, THEN the correct code will it work?

Maybe add a readout of what you entered and a CLEAR/ERASE button?
Have a failure tone when you enter the wrong full code.
I also entered the time from the clock
If it's not the number from the drawer or the clock then I have no idea what it is.


I think the level shows a lot of promise. The decorating and setup looks just great. But there seem to be a lot of ways to break this level, or hey maybe I am missing something.		2011-03-02 16:07:00

Author:
RSQViper
Posts: 302

@RSQViper:

Ok, first and foremost, thanks alot for giving feedback!

- Hm, there is a tone for wrong code. Why this didn't work while you were playing is beyond me. Maybe it's not different enough. And yes, it is the code in the drawer. Works for me every time.
- The thingy on the floor doesn't go together with the computer (it's a bottle and if you look at the leak close the computer it's possible that these two items belong together)
- the inventory is getting another overhaul that being a separate screen to prevent confusion. But it has to wait until sunday/monday. It should be a quick fix, really.

Lastly, I'm terribly sorry that you had a bad experience and I'll address your issues as soon as possible!		2011-03-02 16:19:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Oh, that is a bottle? Dang. Maybe making labels for things in the inventory would help? I sure thought it was a plug. lol

And, yeah I punched that code in several times and it never worked. Maybe test punching in a bunch of numbers then the code and see if it can be broken. I don't know what the heck happened there since it wasn't giving me error sounds. *sigh*

Well, let me know when you change up some stuff and I'll check it out again.		2011-03-02 18:12:00

Author:
RSQViper
Posts: 302

**MAJOR UPDATE** Ver. 1.3.

Just spent a good part of the evening updating Chapter 1 into what hopefully can be regarded as a final version.

- Added boundries for the cursor. Thanks to troll_sb on LBL for tips!
- Added separate inventory screen. Works like a charm!
- Added more speech.
- Redid the camera system.
- The intro is now skippable. Thank goodness.. Added some 3D glitch stuff as well.
- The keypad for the safe now has a more distinct tone when a wrong code is entered. Gonna give the keypad a separate screen tomorrow.

Now I'm back from Japan and ready for some serious F4F'ing!! Wooohaa!		2011-03-08 03:19:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

I'll check it out again. If you'r F4Fing now, check out mine: https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=47967-Dizzy-Wheel-Survival-Challenge-(VERSUS)2011-03-08 04:15:00

Author:
RSQViper
Posts: 302

@RSQViper:

Sure thing!

Got it qued up!		2011-03-09 00:12:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

On List Soon ill give you a review.

Can u F4F my levels o sig? Tks in advance		2011-03-09 00:31:00

Author:
PTdragon
Posts: 176

Played ur level earlier today and Loved it

The game looked and played great for me, everything felt fluid and smooth and I had no trouble controlling the character or interacting with parts of the level. I liked the voice acting also lol, it had slight touches of humor without trying too much to be funny. The whole "point and click" adventure thing I thought was great, original and clever.. u pulled it off nicely, it brought me back to the days when i used to play Broken Sword . The part with the scoreboard was a nice way to finish too lol. The only thing I noticed is that I was able to see out of the level to the left of the ground floor, I saw what looked like a huge block of light matter?? (I should've taken a pic for u). Overall I had a great experience and even tho it was short due to the thermo, I still enjoyed it very much

oh and I took a peek at the sequel trailer too, Lookin forward to it!! *thumbs up*		2011-03-09 01:08:00

Author:
Brixx101
Posts: 277

hey,thanks for the feedback,i almost forgot about my thread. oh youve updated again ill give it another go i love that girl character and her funny sayings,i even clicked everything just to see what her comment would be,lol2011-03-09 02:49:00

Author:
gigglecrab
Posts: 232

SOOOOO much improved now. The separate screens for the keypad and inventory really fix things up. And changing the pointer so you can see you have an item is a great touch.

I had no issues with the keypad this time, either like last time. I do want to mention that I loved the ending area where the girl runs away from the guys with guns.

Very improved, great job!		2011-03-09 04:51:00

Author:
RSQViper
Posts: 302

Hey there! Thanks alot for feedback. I'll look into it! Sometimes the camera uses a while to reset back to the original zoom when going back and forth between the inventory and the overworld. Don't really know why.
It's basically just a regular gameplay camera as long as your sackboy in fact is following the cursor on invisible holo. Movie cameras are far more reliable, which was the original design, but running it through a selector was just a pain in the beeehind! I probably spent like 20 hours trying to make that work. For nothing. lol.

I think I just have to cover that white matter thingy up cause most of the level logic is attached there(which is also a lesson learned: Don't do it... it bugs stuff up..)		2011-03-09 13:18:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Update 3/14/11:

- Enabled for spectators. I didn't realize this before now, but trying to play with more than one player makes the whole level glitch considering I only had one holo follower!

This is now fixed even though it cost me a grumpy face 		2011-03-14 00:40:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Great job. Nice idea. I wait for continuation.2011-03-14 09:47:00

Author:
Unknown User

Wow, this level is absolutely brilliant! I loved the idea of a point and click adventure upon reading the level description, and I'm glad you not only met my expectations but far exceeded them The level is very detailed and beautiful, the characters are very enjoyable, and control is solid! I honestly have nothing bad to say about your level, I loved it! (literally, ha). Job well done, I can't wait for the next!2011-03-15 23:34:00

Author:
Unknown User

[sorry about my english ]

Well, I like point & click and I love time travel, so this is a level for me
I saw on my thread that I have put a tag glitch by mistake on the level (I don't remember doing it, I will remove it the next time I play).

Feedback time now . The only issue I have is the already mentionned "camera reset" after going in the inventory. Controls are fine, the puzzles are good, the scenery is great. It's too short, but I guess the termometer was overheating.

Excellent level, I will play part 2 when it's available.		2011-03-22 11:16:00

Author:
Slurm
Posts: 262

No worries, Slurm!

And I think I have an idea about how to fix the camera now. It's on my ever growing to do list.. After I play your level!

The logic for Ch. 2 is far more efficient and is based on all the lessons learned from inventing my own wheel, so the sequel is alot bigger and longer.

Thanks for good feedback!		2011-03-22 22:03:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Right. Point & Click games have never really been my thing but what you have created here is superb! Great visuals with funny dialogue. The voice for the main character reminded me of Conker from Conkers bad fur day for some reason. I didn't experience a single bug/glitch, it worked flawlessly. Keep up the good work! This definately deserves more plays.2011-03-23 01:25:00

Author:
Unknown User

Known bug(and how to avoid it) as of 3/23/11:

When clicking the Bouncepad, avoid clicking on anything else until the sequence has finished.
There has been incidents where the player character has missed the jump or ended up down on the first floor.

This will be fixed with my new Forced Action? routine developed for chapter 2 which is going to be GRRREAT!		2011-03-26 00:35:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

Played it yesterday and it was great
I haven't played a point'n'click adventure in ages but i really enjoyed the interaction. Everything worked flawlessly. To be honest the only problem is the length but i guess this was supposed to be just an introductory chapter. I also watched the trailer for the next one and it looks awesome even though i hope you won't steer too much away from the point'n'click style. I hope the other sections are just minigames or small puzzles, i really enjoy the current style you've set up .		2011-04-04 10:02:00

Author:
Vergil
Posts: 155

I also played this yesterday and agree with vergil, don't change the format. I didn't watch the trailer as I didn't want to spoil it for myself. I love Point n click adventures, they have been my favorite genre since Maniac Mansion and Day of the Tentacle and ole Guybrush. The level worked great for me and all the details were top notch esp. the combination, that was a nice touch. Voice acting was superb, puzzles were nicely done as well. Thanks for the level. Can't wait for part two.2011-04-04 16:04:00

Author:
biorogue
Posts: 8424

Just played it and I have to say really good work man, I can't begin to fathom how long you spent making sure it worked *just* right. Everything worked well, nothing went wrong.

I do think that custom music would make it a lot better though.

Also it's so short! But that must be to do with thermo 		2011-04-04 21:43:00

Author:
JonnysToyRobot
Posts: 324

I also played this yesterday and agree with vergil, don't change the format.

No problem! The adventure portion is widely expanded and is much longer and more complex than the prequel.

The sublevels are only supplemental, but stand on their own as individual levels.

EDIT: But I am aware that it's easy to fall into the "bigger and better" bear trap(Not that I'm comparing myself to Michael Bay or anything...).
For instance after playtesting with X-Nobody-X last night I realized that the platformer was far to "fast"(if you've seen the trailer, you may know what I'm referring to..) for more than one player, so back to the drawing board a little bit and now we're back on track.

I love this. If one only could do this for money.		2011-04-05 23:05:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

I just played this level finally...It is awesome! Such a great idea and it is executed flawlessly. The inventory, the sack-tors, the voicework all brilliant. I loved the part when you look in the drawer, it just looks perfect. Watched the trailer for number two...can't wait.2011-04-08 12:31:00

Author:
Ace29
Posts: 132

wow thats so cool, I love the voice, it took me a while to get the hang of, in game instructions would be nice2011-04-14 20:00:00

Author:
Squidge99
Posts: 203

wow thats so cool, I love the voice, it took me a while to get the hang of, in game instructions would be nice

Yeah, I'm working on a common tutorial level for the entire series.

But for now you'll have to do with the instructions in the first post of this thread. Or read the linked walkthrough.

Thanks for playing and commenting!		2011-04-14 20:51:00

Author:
Discosmurf
Posts: 210

do you remmember 3 weeks ago? xD
so finally played it. and it was great. i haven't seen a point and click level in LBP before.
well the only issue i could mention is that sometimes the girl ran into an invisible wall in the professor's room and couldn't move on( maybe it was a logic problem i dunno). the voices were... interesting...xD.
oh and i had to restart the level once because i couldn't use the bottle in the inventory. but i know such problems. logic sometimes does what it wants. ok that's it .		2011-05-16 15:22:00

Author:
frexy18
Posts: 62


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