Game development is an intricate process that blends creativity, strategy, and technical prowess. Team HoloGraphic, a dedicated group of junior-year GDAP students, embarked on this journey to create HoloGraphic, a deckbuilder roguelike set in a cyberpunk future. Their game challenges players to think like a genius hacker, rewarding clever problem-solving and strategic decision-making.
Game Overview: HoloGraphic
HoloGraphic transports players into a high-tech cyberpunk world, where they take on the role of an elite hacker navigating a dystopian landscape. The game’s mechanics emphasize strategic deck-building, allowing players to outmaneuver security systems, break through digital firewalls, and uncover hidden secrets.
Unique Selling Points
- A cyberpunk aesthetic with immersive world-building
- Strategic deck-building mechanics that reward creativity
- A game designed for PC (Steam), targeting players aged 18-27
The Development Process
The team meticulously crafted their game concept, starting with a detailed mockup phase that included concept art, mood boards, and storyboards to establish the game’s visual identity and narrative direction. Their work evolved through multiple iterations, refining both gameplay mechanics and the overall player experience.
Challenges and Innovations
One of the biggest challenges the team faced was balancing the complexity of the deck-building mechanics with accessibility for new players. To tackle this, they designed an intuitive onboarding experience that gradually introduces players to advanced mechanics without overwhelming them.
Final Presentation and Future Plans
HoloGraphic was pitched as part of the GMAP 377 final showcase, where the team presented their polished concept, gameplay mechanics, and future expansion plans. While the initial Minimum Viable Product (MVP) was targeted for a December 2022 release, the team envisioned expanding the game with additional content by March 2023.
The team sees great potential for further development, hoping to refine the mechanics and expand the narrative scope. Their dedication and innovation in designing HoloGraphic showcase the talent and ambition of Drexel’s GDAP students.