Sequel: what would you like?

[brodie]

I like the big levels with lots of hidden goodies too, but sometimes I get lost. Can you add a map, or little signs with arrows on them to point the way? Some games post signs to mark the main path through a level, so you can at least find the exit. Thanx.

[AlleyCat]

I second the request for x-ray mode on-demand. The sign posts would be nice too, some of those levels are big.

[trannybrad]

Hey Troy,
I just got the newsletter and had to sound in on this. What about instead of just the "rats" you add some other dangerous animals, maybe like snakes, croc's, etc. They wouldn't necessarily have to move but maybe be in a position where if Dirk drops off a ledge without looking down first he may land on them. I'll keep thinking and I'll ask the girls tonight what they think.
What about some type of "force field" or protective suit to protect Dirk from the green slime? I like the previous idea about the grappling hook. I will have to look at the sneak previews that were mentioned.
Talk to you later. If you are coming in the Fall, send back the form so Dad knows you are coming.
Brad

[sirdude]

Hi Troy,

I haven't played fully through the original yet, but I still really like it.

Since people sort of compare it to James bond, I think it would be
cool to have a car/boat chase in the game somewhere.
(I know a lot of extra work) Its just an idea.

Kent

[TroyHepfner]

Can you add a map, or little signs with arrows on them to point the way?

Generating a useful map could be tricky, but we could easily add signs to point out the main path. Great suggestion!

I second the request for x-ray mode on-demand.

I'll put this on the list for the next update for Dirk Dashing 1.

What about instead of just the "rats" you add some other dangerous animals, maybe like snakes, croc's, etc.

There will definitely be some dangerous new critters, as well as new robots and E.V.I.L. agents. More on this in my next blog post.

I think it would be cool to have a car/boat chase in the game somewhere.
(I know a lot of extra work) Its just an idea.

I agree. In fact, this was at the top of my wish list for Dirk 2. But I'm not sure yet whether this will make it into the game. I would like to do 2-3 such levels, but my vision for these chases will take a lot of work, so it may have to wait for a later episode. We'll have to see how development progresses. I would really like to do this though!

[TroyHepfner]

More gadgets!

Oh, yeah! You can count on it!

Perhaps you can have Dirk bury, or hide under the floor boards, some gas grenades that will activate when they are stepped on - that would stop the bad guys right in their tracks! I suppose it could also work for Bazooka, etc.

Interesting idea. I'll have to play with this concept and see if I can come up with an interesting new gadget or weapon for this.

I'd like to see more variety of weapons and more ways to defeat bad guys.

Definitely! I already have some ideas for this, but am open to additional suggestions!

[TroyHepfner]

I love the first game, tho I do lose a lot of lives. It would be nice if I didn't die immediately when I get hit, which happens alot.

We're looking into the possibility of adding a health system in the sequel, or some sort of protective gadget Dirk can pick up and carry with him. Taking a hit would cause you to lose a health point or the protective gadget. This way, Dirk wouldn't necessarily die the instant you touched something bad, though some hazards may still be lethal to touch. This would also allow us to create some more challenging enemies.

If folks have a particular preference for how this new system should work (for example, allow Dirk to take only one hit or 2-3 hits before dying), let us know. We haven't nailed anything down yet.

[sirdude]

Just some additional random brainstorming....

You could have a submarine scene and or a remote car/sub

Thinking of the old dos game In Search of Dr Riptide....

http://takegame.com/arcade/htm/riptide.htm

Just some other ideas to shake it up...
You could have a Pizza Delivery costume and while your in the costume you have to sneak through the bad guys by answering questions correctly.

A gadget idea is a personal tow rope to climb up or down a building.
(from his belt or maybe a crosbow thing he shoots and then attaches to his belt)

[Duchess]

I posted this idea in response to Victoria's "Pippin is Groomed!' but it applies here too. I think Dirk should have an animal sidekick who resembles Pippin....he could alert Dirk to dangers ahead, and run interference for Dirk so he could get past some of the bad guys that are in his way.

[Thurmond]

I like that idea! He could even be a robot dog!

I also like the idea of driving a gadget car, piloting a boat or mini-sub, or flying a miniature helicopter - it would be fun! Like the old Spy Hunter arcade game... I pumped a lot of quarters into that cuz it was so much fun. It would be neat to combine something like that with Dirk Dashing!