Code of the Savage Update #34 - Combat System and Open Demo

A couple of weeks back, we had a chance to check out some recent combat-related improvements for Geoff Jones’ retro RPG Code of the Savage. And now, we get this Kickstarter update that shares some additional combat highlights. We’re also directed to the game’s open demo that’s going to allow you to experience these improvements first-hand.

Here’s more of the game’s combat system:

Here’s a quick look at the game’s archery:

And some battle sounds:

And now, the text parts:

Hi All,

HUGE update. There is a lot to talk about, but I’ll start with the combat system.

Demo download

Combat System

The removal of the scroll wheel actions in the last update has paved the way for the combat system overhaul. I feel a bit like a creative roadblock has finally been lifted, and it’s a good feeling.

I left the combat system in a state limbo for a long time while I worked on other parts of the game… simply because I couldn’t think of a way to make it work with the scroll wheel actions… Sometimes the solution is staring you right in the face – scroll wheel actions gutted.

Previously, the combat system was dull and tedious, but I have gotten it to the point now where I can finally say I’m happy with it. It of course needs refinement and feedback, but feel a lot better about it.

The combat system now functions a little bit like Ultima Online with a dash of Ultima 7 thrown in (without U7’s famous “double-click->bad-guy-dead” lack of control).

Combat Mode

Combat now works by entering combat mode. As the name implies, being in combat mode enables you to attack things. When in Combat mode double clicking an NPC will attack them instead of talking to them. The cursor will turn red and the players weapon, shield and helm will be equipped and show on the player avatar. I’ve also created extra shield and weapon sprites that show on the players back. Enter combat mode by hitting CTRL or clicking the new combat mode button on the sidebar.

Juice

I’ve added sound effects, camera shake, and an improved knockback effect to make combat feel more satisfying. I’d love to get some feedback on how this feels to you as a player.

Targeting

Now, instead of having to double-click a target each time you want to swing, you simple double-click once. It then continuously swings/fires automatically while/when in range. An animated arrow appears on top of the targeted NPC.

Ranged Weapons

Ranged weapons have been completely overhauled. In fact they were pretty damn broken in the previous version.

Ranged weapons now have a load/powerup time before they can be fired. They are then fired automatically when in range of the target. The shot is cancelled if the player moves. I’ve added a bow pullback animation.

This still has to be tweaked. I need to get the balance right to ensure ranged weapons are not too over powered, while ensuring they are not inferior to melee weapons, and thus never used by the player… Right now I think they lean towards the latter, and I’d love to get your feedback on how they should be handled.

Test Island

I’ve setup an island for testing the combat system and other aspects of the game. It’s a microcosm of the full game. You can still get to Penthos by going through the teleporter. Buy weapons and armour from the blacksmith.

Sidebar update

I’ve updated the sidebar to make it easier to know where to place items.

Demo download

I’m making this demo available to everyone as I need lots of feedback.

You can download the demo from Itch.io right here

Please send feedback in whatever way you find easiest. You can find all of my contact info and social media links on the official website www.codeofthesavage.com or just comment here.

Change log

Combat targeting system implemented

Overhaled ranged weapons

Added test island

Added NPC stats database

Added new MOB spawner

Old knockback effect removed

Camera shake added when hit

Added current NPC target indicator

Added NPC panic move script

Fixed not being able to drag items to inventory icon and player

Fixed close bag pause

Fixed cant pickup items in combat mode

Fixed give item script giving wrong amount

Added different shaped target boxes for larger NPCs

Fixed double-click set to target box and not NPC

Added only fires when stationary

Fixed ranged weapons not working

Fixed blood splatter not centering around target

Added innocent NPCs now panic or attack when attacked depending on their temperament

Added NPC battle and panic cries

Fixed missing and blocking attacks at the same time.

Fixed combat blocking

Added missiles only hit selected target

Fixed corpse drop location

Added combat blocked glint animation

Cleaned up the combat script

Added combat start/stop button

Added weapon, shield and helm only show in combat mode

Added weapon and shield sprites for when not in combat

Fixed being able to drop things behind sidebar

Fixed weapon depth draw on avatar

Fixed 1 handed and 2 handed items

Fixed firebomb alignment issue

Added and improved combat system

Fixed collision box for NPCs

Fixed hover text crash when hovering over object close to the screen edge

Fixed NPCs flying offscreen when changing move script

Fixed missing object error with NPC attack animation

Fixed teleporters not correctly freezing player

Added goblin hurt and death sound fx

Added bow pullback and fire sound fx

Added bow firing animation

Added brigand NPCs

Added sheep sound fx

Added/updated wolf sound fx

Fixed miscategorized Chain leggings

Fixed crash if insect swarm kills NPC

Fixed crash if corpse decays before you close the container

Fixed health bar crash after re-entering teleporter

Fixed freezing after spell targeted

Fixed spells double casting

Fixed spells not working in combat mode

Fixed spell cursor animation in combat mode

Fixed Cursor not showing blue on neutral

Added icons to slots on sidebar

Removed the fist icon from the sidebar when no weapon equipped

Bugs that I know about

Pretty much any bug related to the shop. I patched up the shop so that it’s usable for the purpose of this demo, but I will scraping it and creating a new shop system soon

Save/load not working – disabled for the demo

I am aware that many of the spells in the spell book don’t do anything yet

I know that trees will flicker at the bottom of the screen

I know that grass and other foliage sometimes show on the wrong depth

Thanks everyone! enjoy the demo

~Geoff