Messages

1

Support / Re: How to Download the Latest Version: 1.1.1

« on: January 16, 2009, 02:10:23 pm »

Okay, I'm a little late to the conversation but I didn't see an answer to the question yet...  is version 1.1.2 available through Plimus yet (by "reactivating" our download?) or is it just the steam version that's been updated so far?

If this has been answered already then please just consider me blind as a bat, but I didn't see it in the thread (not a concrete answer).

I've got version 1.1.1 and I did get a "beta" patch directly from Alec to fix the tearing problem, but I'd like to get complete install of version 1.1.2 with the fixes just so I have a backup of the latest install version.

Anyway, thanks Alec (I'm sorry if you've already answered this a thousand times already, I honestly didn't see the official answer though).  Either way I'm in no rush, but if you do get version 1.1.2 available through plimus please start a thread to let us know. 

Thanks again guys!

2

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 16, 2008, 01:53:02 pm »

By screeen tearing, do you mean a visible line of difference in frames at a horizontal location on the screen? Because I'm not seeing that anywhere... just noticable fps drops in large areas with my newew laptop. Could be that I'm running it a the native resolution for the laptop and it's only an onboard intel gpu. *shrug* but it's definitely easily playable. it's not to a point of stuttering video or audio.

It's probably a problem with slightly older video cards, I'm not certain, but the quick fix that Alec made remedied the problem. 

If all you're suffering from is a drop in fps then you aren't having the same problem.  It's not the same subject but I did notice another thread related to Laptops and video card driver updates, perhaps that will help cure your drop in fps (hopefully), or at least improve it.  Here's the related thread I mentioned:

http://www.bit-blot.com/forum/index.php?topic=430.0

Hope it helps.

3

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 16, 2008, 01:30:36 am »

Thanks for the quick fix Alec!  Now I get to dive into Aquaria all over again!   

4

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 15, 2008, 10:52:30 pm »

Hmm... I busted out my ancient ATI machine today, and noticed some tearing. I changed one thing in the code and now the tearing is gone. (!)

Are you guys down for testing a patch? Please say yes.

Thanks a lot for your patience!

I should have mentioned that my Graphics card is an ATI as well.  It's an older card (9200 Series) but it's still sufficient and has suited my gaming needs well.   Just let me know when the fix is ready and I'll try it out and leave feedback for you as well (fingers crossed).  Thanks again.

You have the screen tearing problem right now?

Yes, it's noticeable as soon as the Title Screen kicks in and continued while I played the game.  Didn't notice it during the Bit Blot logo screen though and I tried running the game using multiple settings even manually editing the usersettings file but to no avail.

5

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 15, 2008, 09:47:04 pm »

Hmm... I busted out my ancient ATI machine today, and noticed some tearing. I changed one thing in the code and now the tearing is gone. (!)

Are you guys down for testing a patch? Please say yes.

Thanks a lot for your patience!

I should have mentioned that my Graphics card is an ATI as well.  It's an older card (9200 Series) but it's still sufficient and has suited my gaming needs well.   Just let me know when the fix is ready and I'll try it out and leave feedback for you as well (fingers crossed).  Thanks again.

6

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 15, 2008, 09:07:08 pm »

Hi Alec,

I'm definitely up to testing the patch out.  If it works I'll let you know ASAP.  Hopefully whatever you did to fix it on your older machine will be the cure for the rest of us (probably the few of us) that are experiencing the tearing problem. 

So please let me know when the patch is available and where to find it (which thread it'll be located in) and I'll test it out immediately and let you know the results. 

Also, just wanted to say, thanks for the quick response!  Another reason why I appreciate indie games and the developers, they care!   

Cheers.

7

Support / Re: Screen tearing that seem unrelated to... everything?

« on: December 15, 2008, 03:06:54 pm »

I've actually noticed the same problem with the screen tearing.  It's not major, but I never had the problem with the old version of Aquaria.  It's actually almost like a small screen flicker that happens intermittently, every few seconds, and that same jerkiness that was described by the original poster.  I know it's not my graphics card (and I do have all the latest drivers), plus I'm running Win Xp SP2 as well, shouldn't be a problem their either.  I'm pretty familiar with my system and settings and I've tried the game in several resolutions.  I'll play around a bit more with the Aquaria settings because I haven't tried everything yet, but almost.  I have tried it in standard (4:3) and widescreen as well but with no difference in the issue.  I'm using a standard 60 hz refresh rate as well so that shouldn't have an affect but I'll play around with the refresh rates as well (in different resolutions and screen modes, just to be sure).  I'll update if I discover anything.

8

General / Re: Steam?

« on: October 18, 2007, 04:03:59 pm »

   Well said Alec and pretty much the point I was trying to get across but you took it a step further by mentioning that indie devs should work together to grow without having to rely on some of the large (albeit money hungry) companies.  The problem with some (if not most) of these larger publishers is that they don't give a damn about the developers, they care about the bottom line only so the quality of the game doesn't matter -- just how much it'll make them, with little to no concern for the developer.  I'd really like to drop a few names regarding the matter but I'll force myself not to (two capitalized vowels come to mind -- damn you BioWare!  Why! WHY!!!   ), I find that with these large publishers game plus game play quality and customer support is far from secondary and barely applicable to their business ethic.  This is a mini-rant as well but it's important to note that what Alec mentioned about being able to succeed and grow without the need to have your choices made for you or another hand in your pocket is important for all indie developers and even mainstream developers who are seeking creative control over their work.  I can't say that this is something that Valve intends to do with their Steam service, but I can say that Valve has enough money and will most likely be an available service in the future, so there's no need to rush into things.

In regard to what you had said Stalfos, although finding out about the game is all part of marketing and the gaming "biz" it's important for smaller developing companies to be able to profit from their efforts without relying fully on another large publisher if not only to help the developer recognize where they could make improvements and grow or how to market the game better, but it also gives more meaning to the word "independent" and ensures that these developers retain control over their product.  The internet makes it possible to market in numerous and inventive ways.  I really think Aquaria will reach it's target audience (which is hopefully anyone who loves video games  )

I can't speak for all indie developers, but I know that when I've put a large amount of time, effort, and work into something I wouldn't want to give it up easily or cheaply just to make a quick buck...  I'd personally want to develop my skills and grow so that my efforts or talents would be sought after for some time.  Not everyone feels the same way and that's understandable, but I'm just more sentimental and thoughtful about what I want to try to accomplish in life.  Doesn't mean I'm right or wrong, but I think it's a healthy and respectable way of looking at things.

And yes Alec, I agree with you, I think indie games are getting better and better.  There is a tide coming and I really can't wait to play that game that's somewhat of a cross between Ecco the Dolphin, Castlevania: SoTN, and Metroid...  oh what's it called again....  Oh yeah, Aquaria 

Johnny


---------------------------------
www.i-luv-games.com

9

General / Re: Steam?

« on: October 18, 2007, 01:53:03 pm »

Actually Xocrates, now you know another person who has bought games straight from Introversions Website.     I've purchased a couple of their titles (and decided to get the physical version of Defcon).  With sites like GameTunnel and other indie gaming sites people do find out about these titles and they have had plenty of honorable mention in various E-zines and Magz.  I think you're underestimating the power of the internet and the length at which good "Word 'o Mouth" can go.  I personally know of two other people who also bought Defcon and a few more people who hadn't heard of it until they stumbled across my site and asked me a couple of questions about it.  I was also online the day that Defcon launched and there were plenty of games up and running both Demo and Full versions (and most of them weren't running under Steam - it's great because the lobby allows you to see who's using a Steam version and who isn't).  So while your point might apply to some games, it doesn't necessarily apply to Introversions Games or Bit-Blots.  I think you're right that Steam could definitely make a game or company that "isn't" very popular more so, but Introversion has had a decent run of success through IGF, indie gaming sites, alternative media, and word of mouth.  I've browsed their forums as well and it's not really as if their is a lack of forum discussion.  Also, remember that IGF is also getting a little coverage from some of the larger mainstream sites as well (ala GameSpot).  So I think you probably just perceive it that way because you perhaps don't know anyone in "real life" that knows of Defcon or the other Introversion titles which is much more likely and probable.  A great example of after-market distribution and merchandising would be Gish.  It wasn't very popular in the beginning (not many people had heard about it) but it was a damn good game that once found, received extremely positive reviews and response from indie gamers.  After some time Gish turned up on Download portals and 3rd party sites and ending up doing better.  Sometimes success can be based on timing or even luck, but I think Aquaria has been more widely received (and it isn't even out yet) because of IGF and the amount of great coverage that it has received and this is only the beginning.  Once the game is out it'll be easier to show it off and spread the word.  I think Bit-Blot will do just fine and having the extra options (as mentioned throughout the "Steam" discussion) will be more beneficial in the long run of things.

Cheers!

Johnny


---------------------------------
www.i-luv-games.com

10

General / Re: Steam?

« on: October 18, 2007, 03:08:28 am »

Xander and Xocrates: 

I never said that Bit-Blot should or shouldn't work with Valve to have their game distributed via Steam.  I honestly don't know what sort of "Cut" Valve gets for the games they distribute or what they would expect for an indie title such as Aquaria.  The fact of the matter is Everyone can purchase Aquaria from Bit-Blots Site and Steam users will just as easily learn about Aquaria as the people who do not use Steam through other websites and alternative media.  Steam is both liked and disliked in equal amounts so I'm sure that Aquaria would get noticed on Steam but who's to say Aquaria won't get noticed without it?  As I mentioned in my original post, these are decisions that do not have to be made right away and is something that can be thought about and used as on option in the future if Alec and Derek want or perhaps need to.  So it is only my opinion that it would make sense to start distribution through your own site first and then expand, this is also good business for the guys at Bit-Blot because they will make more profit with each title sold rather than watering down the value of their game by selling it through a 3rd party right away.  I say go with the 3rd Party distribution when and if Aquaria starts losing some of it's "Steam" (pardon the pun) and popularity.  Otherwise do what you can with what you've got.  There are plenty of sites and magazines that will cover the story, give sneak peaks, and give previews and reviews of Aquaria resulting in positive PR for Bit-Blot and Aquaria (what's that saying about all PR?).   PR such as this is also cost effective and as close to free as you can get when trying to spread the word about your product.  So "Regular folk that have never heard of the game and probably wouldn't give it a second look otherwise might try a demo" (as quoted by Xocrates post), but they might try it straight from the Bit-Blot site.

So please don't take it the wrong way, I'm just not convinced that by distributing through a 3rd party portal or download distribution site is necessary at such and early stage when it can be used as a much more beneficial and profitable tool at a later date.  Just makes more sense to me.  Once the game is out, "It's out" so it's not going to disappear off the face of the planet but it may wane in popularity in a year or so when distribution through outside means would re-vitalize sales and perhaps it's popularity once more.

Aside from all of that (and I'm sure I mentioned it before) you're contributing to the developers more directly which gives them more profit and more incentive.  You also get a more direct connection with the devs and more immediate customer service and tech support and the knowledge that your money is going toward this and future developments by Bit-Blot. 

Either way it's easy for any of us to ask that the guys at Bit-Blot go with a massive world-wide distribution and all sorts of 3rd party companies and download portals that will ultimately increase exposure to their game while also taking cuts into their overall profits (which is what I meant by cheapening the game).   We can only speculate, make assumptions and recommendations so easily because we haven't put anything into Aquaria or invest our time into the project.   That's why I'm trying very hard to stick to my opinions and what I've learned as fact on the matter without trying to get a handle on the direction that Bit-Blot will take, or try to steer them, because I know that Alec and Derek are smart enough to think for themselves and they may have already had thoughts about distribution and the like a year ago, or perhaps not.  The important thing about discussions is expressing your views without knocking everyone else's.  So I do appreciate your opinions as well Xander and Xocrates.  I just think it's more important to be thoughtful than spiteful, so I try not to knock other peoples opinions.

It's an interesting discussion.  Don't know if it's of any use but we'll find out what Alec and Derek decide to do in the near future I'm sure.  I wish them the best of success no matter what they decide to do.  It goes without saying that we're all pretty anxious to dive into the game.   

Cheers!

Johnny


---------------------------------
www.i-luv-games.com

11

General / Re: Steam?

« on: October 17, 2007, 09:49:21 pm »

Well since Alec has given the green light  , I was really not trying to dissuade or persuade the guys at Bit-Blot or coach them into making one decision or another, I was just trying to get the point across as to why I personally don't like Steam. 
I have a big problem with being forced to have one app running in the background just so I can use another, I think many would agree that there are enough mysterious background apps running (in Windows) at all times.  Having one more app may not seem like much but to me it's just as annoying as lets say -- Spyware.

In regards to what Alec and Derek should do in this situation or other dealings with distribution and finances, I think they should listen to the public but not necessarily agree with them.  What I mean by that is they already have their own views, principles, and priorities.  I think they should stick with what they find important to them and if they do come across useful information they should somehow incorporate it into their ideals but ultimately they should stick with what they feel to be right.  Doesn't always mean it's the best choice but then there's no blame or finger pointing when the day is done and they can feel confident that their decisions were their own.  It's one of the few things that the indie developer can keep for themselves but is sometimes forgotten.  A lot of people would say that expanding and distributing with and through everything and everyone would be great to make a lot of money and a quick buck.  Personally I think it's more important to develop and create something you love, make it as good as possible, and then try to sell it (case and point, exactly what Bit-Blot is doing).   Aquaria is already widely popular among indie fans and has accumulated a lot of good PR.  I really don't think it would be necessary to go through other distributors or portals yet because that option will always be there later on anyway (just look at games like Gish and Mr. Robot).  Lastly, Bit-Blot has an excellent opportunity with the popularity that they have already gained to keep as much creative control as they want while becoming increasingly popular through alternative media and word of mouth.  As an added point to the conversation think of Wolfenstien 3D and Doom, (some people still don't realize or even remember this) they were both released as Shareware and developed as indie titles by indie developers...  Most of their popularity was gained through word of mouth and distribution was done mainly through BBS's (Public Bulletin Board Systems) which were nowhere near as widely used in terms of scope or scale as todays "Internet" as we know it.   I'm sure the guys at "id" (just 2 people at the time) wanted to make some money but I have to believe that they were pretty intelligent and realized that they had made much more than a profit from money.  They now have a large fan base and people who are constantly on the lookout for their next release.  None of this happened over night, yet the company is still around.

Again, I think it's important to do what you feel is right and try your damned-est to not "Sell-Out".  I believe it's the best way to remain "Great".

How does this all apply to "Steam"?  It's just some food for thought... 

 

Cheers,

Johnny

---------------------------------
www.i-luv-games.com

12

General / Re: Steam?

« on: October 17, 2007, 07:19:59 pm »

Personally I'm not a big fan of Steam.  I think it's a mess.  Not that they aren't providing a large amount of downloads for people, but I don't like the idea of having a separate app running in the background while I play my game when there's no need for it.  Some people don't care, and that's fine it's all a matter of opinion but aside from that I still find the service a bit messy.  I don't really like the layout of it all.   I realize Steam has a lot of mainstream games, but once again I choose not to play my games with additional apps that HAVE to be loaded in the background...  seems unreasonable to me, but again that's my preference and opinion on the matter.  Personally I prefer buying straight from the Indie developer and if need be I'd buy off of Manifesto, ArcadeTown, or Reflexive before I'd choose Steam.  When I enjoy a game I prefer to support the developer as much as possible so 95% of the time I purchase it straight through their site.  The other times are when I'm interested in two games by two different devs and both games happen to be on a site that distributes indie games.  That's when I'll just buy the two games straight from the one site so that I don't have to fork over my CC numbers more than I have to (but I normally don't go and buy two different indie titles on the exact same day and when I do they're usually games that were made by the same developer).

On a side note, the only real recommendation I have for all indie developers is that they pair up with an e-commerce that provides not only credit card payments but also accepts PayPal since people can use their Credit or Debit cards through the service AND it's safer than giving your numbers out to numerous sites (even though most of them are reputable).  I just think it's an added convenience and PayPal and the buyers payments are protected.

Anyway, that's my two cents...   

Johnny

---------------------------------
www.i-luv-games.com

13

Games / Re: Metroid Prime 3: Corruption

« on: September 20, 2007, 06:42:02 am »

I'd have to agree with Alec.

All I can say is thank god for Hideo Kojima!  Not a stale tale in his repertoire.  Best way I can describe it is, I enjoy getting lost in his stories so much that I forget I'm even playing a game or how much time has passed while doing so.  I know, not everyone is a fan, but I've played through all of the MGS games  at least 3 times... except the original Metal Gear (the nes version), played through it twice (had to prove that I passed it to a friend).   The MGS games weren't just a cinematic treat either, the gameplay progressing the story was just as interesting.  Graphics were complimented by an excellent use of sound.  On top of that, there were so many other little things you could see and do with plenty of hidden easter eggs for persistent gamers.  I can't imagine how bland some of todays games would be without Kojima-San and his powerful influence and amazing development direction which was equaled only by his sense of style and humor. 

That MGS4 trailer has been making me drool.  I wonder if the Raiden/Vamp fight will be part of the final product?

Can't wait... 

14

Games / Brand new Review of Blackwell Unbound - Whaddya think?

« on: September 16, 2007, 06:24:56 pm »

Hello,

Just wanted to let people know that I complete a new review of the recently released indie adventure game called Blackwell Unbound.  Please check it out and let me know what you think.

http://www.i-luv-games.com/bw_unbound_review.html

Any feedback or comments, even suggestions regarding the site are welcome. I'm open to constructive criticism and enjoy getting feedback.  Just wish I could review games as a full time job. 

John (Site Admin)
www.i-luv-games.com

15

General / This game looks great, now hurry up and release it :-)

« on: March 11, 2007, 02:02:54 am »

Alright,

  I noticed Aquaria when I visited GameTunnel and saw thier IGF article.  I hadn't heard or seen anything about Aquaria before that but because of the article I decided to check the site out.  I am very impressed by what I've seen.   The gameplay video and the screenshots look great!   The game has quite a unique look to it, along the lines of Wik and the Fable of Souls, yet much broader in scale in scope.  The gameplay itself looks much like a cross between Ecco the Dolphin meets Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.  Now maybe I'm wrong, but I do hope you understand that by making a statement like that I am giving the highest possible compliment for Aquaria because you won't find better platformers than those ones mentioned.   I'm still a huge fan of 2D graphics and when they're done this well I can't help but think that big publishers like Electronic Arts are wasting a lot of time and money trying to whip out the next big - "buggy" (or bug-ridden) - 3d blockbuster when there are extremely high quality games being developed by the less popular Indie Developers.   Thankfully, I've found that many Indie Game Developers have far more integrity than the large publishers do (which will always be the case now).   

  So, with that said, when the bugger is this game going to be released!?!?!?!?  Bring it on because I'm anxious for this one and have my wallet ready     (I know, I know... you're pushing for May, but I'm serious - bring it on!)   

  Here's a significant question:  Will we be able to buy the game via PayPal?

Thanks and congratulations with the recognition you've already received!  The game looks beautiful, sounds great, seems smooth and fluid...  if the actual game plays like this then you've definately earned the recognition!

Cheers!