Project Universe: Game Design Document (GDD)

1. Introduction:

"Project Universe" is an expansive sci-fi MMORPG, aiming to teach real-world skills and the principles of self-sustainability through the lens of interstellar exploration and colonization.

2. [Narrative & Lore](2~Narrative & Lore.md):

  • Set in the future as humanity launches its first fleet of interstellar spacecraft.
  • Players take on the role of crew members striving for self-sustainability on their homeships.

3. [Core Gameplay Loops](3~Core Gameplay Loops.md):

  • Resource Collection: Mining asteroids, scavenging materials, and exploring alien craft.
  • Production & Refinement: Crafting tools, machines, and building structures.
  • Maintenance & Upkeep: Ensuring everything from tools to spaceships stays functional and efficient.
  • Education & Skill Building: Learning real-life skills virtually, ranging from crafting to advanced tech repairs.
  • Social Interaction & Trade: Collaborate, trade, and communicate with other players.

4. Game Mechanics:

  • Player Progression: Players evolve through skill acquisition and equipment enhancements.
  • Conflict & Resolution: TBD based on narrative evolutions and player feedback.
  • Environmental Dynamics: Different spaceships and possible planets influence gameplay.

5. Technical Aspects:

  • Engine: TBD.
  • Multiplayer dynamics, interaction protocols, and scalability concerns.
  • Designed for multiple platforms, including consoles, computers, handheld devices, and VR setups.

6. Art & Aesthetics:

  • Visual Style: TBD based on feedback and technological capabilities.
  • Sound and music: Reflecting the vastness and intricacies of space and technology.

7. Accessibility:

  • Features for disabled players.
  • Settings for different user needs, including colorblind modes and subtitles.

8. Game Modes & Modding:

  • Core game modes: Campaign, sandbox, etc.
  • Potential for user-generated content and modding.

9. Feedback & Iteration:

  • Regular updates, patches, or expansions based on player feedback.
  • Channels for feedback collection.

10. Marketing & Outreach:

  • Alpha/beta testing phases.
  • Marketing strategies and target audiences.

11. Safety & Moderation:

  • Community guidelines and monitoring.
  • Dispute resolution mechanisms.

12. Monetization:

  • Virtual mall for real-world and in-game products/services.
  • Crowdfunding avenues like Patreon.
  • Merchandise through third-party platforms.
  • Potential DLC/cosmetics with a focus on real-world utility.

13. Milestones & Timeline:

  • Key development milestones.
  • Projections for alpha, beta, and final release.

This outline offers a snapshot of "Project Universe," providing a general understanding of its scope and direction. Each section can be elaborated upon with in-depth details, mock-ups, prototypes, and other relevant materials.