I have a working build of Superforce running on Mac OS X. Am I going to release it? Nope. So what is it for?

The iOS Simulator is fast enough for running apps. It is way better than the Android emulator, but it’s not fast enough to run a game at 60FPS. And it is completely useless for running a game that is controlled by the accelerometer. There’s a way around that, but it’s too complicated for my taste. I want to iterate quickly, so I’ve invested some time to optimize my workflow.

Setting up a Mac build has paid off almost immediately.

The Mac version starts super quickly and runs smoothly at 60FPS. I can comfortably control it with keyboard and mouse. Another big advantage is that it can read and write files in the filesystem. This is required for the built-in level editor. It also helped me identify a few areas in my code which had problems on a 64-bit architecture. I was able to fix those without ever running the game on a 64-bit iOS device.

Superforce is a one man project. It has a limited scope. Instead of generating tons of content, I’m focusing on making the core mechanics as good as possible, adding some nice details and generally having fun making it.

Design goals

• Easy to play
• Simple controls
• Quick 5 minute sessions
• Destruction = fun
• iPhone only

Non-goals

• Storyline
• Enemy & weapon variety
• Boss fights
• Huge number of levels
• Launch on multiple platforms

Would be nice

• Achievements
• Global highscores

For a sequel

• In-game shop with upgrades
• iPad version
• Mac version with level editor

Pricing

• Single purchase game
• No ads
• No free-to-play bullshit

Hello, it’s time to announce my next game.

It’s an action game called SUPERFORCE. It will run on the iPhone.

Superforce is going to be my first iPhone game. It is inspired by River Raid, Renegade Ops and Devastro.

There is no release date. Keep an eye on this blog for updates.