The developer of the upcoming fantasy looter-slasher Godfall has taken us behind the scenes on the title’s progression systems.
Speaking to IGN, Counterplay Games senior technical producer Richard Heyne said that the aim was to create a game that’s fun for players who want to go through the main campaign, but is also enjoyable for who want to keep hunting down loot after the story is completed.
Heyne has described Godfall‘s progression systems as a “tinkerer’s dream,” saying that the game’s skill tree gives players ample opportunity to experiment, while also making sure it doesn’t get in the way of them actually enjoying themselves.
Users can respec their character any time they choose, so won’t have to fully commit to one style of play over another. Skill points are also universal and carry over to each of the game’s Valorplate armour sets.
“We really wanted just wanted there to be maximum flexibility with the skill grid,” he said.
“We wanted to avoid choice paralysis because Godfall’s combat can be quick and snappy. It’s action-packed, and if you’re having to open the UI menu every two levels… it would really hinder the player’s experience.”
Counterplay was also keen to not force players into activities they didn’t enjoy in order to unlock crafting materials in Godfall. Heyne explained that during the campaign, gamers should unlock enough ingredients to create a certain number of Valorplates in the main story without having to do side missions and so on.
Players can upgrade levels of their weapons and equipment, as well as enchanting them to increase their rarity. You also have various slots for items like rings and charms. Some of these are known as trinkets and don’t have a visual impact in the way weapons do, but give players unique traits.
“One of our core philosophies will be the tinkerer’s dream,” Heyne said. “If there’s the appetite for the player to keep experimenting, we want to make sure the playground is just open and you’re ready to play.”
Godfall was announced at 2019’s The Game Awards. Six seconds of gameplay footage from Counterplay’s looter-slasher leaked in January of this year before the title was properly shown off in June.
The game is set for a November 12 release for PlayStation 5 and PC via the Epic Game Store. Godfall requires an always-on connection on both platforms.
