In a bold move that redefines the boundaries of sports gaming, the development team behind “Drag x Drive” has introduced a unique blend of analogue controls and innovative gameplay mechanics. This transformation is set to captivate gamers worldwide, offering a novel experience that combines real-world movements with immersive digital action.
The journey to this groundbreaking gameplay began with the core mechanics taking shape as a new sport, blending various elements to create a fresh, engaging experience. According to Konishi, one of the developers, the team focused on making movement controls satisfying, incorporating tackles and quick turns to enhance engagement. The challenge was to provide players with more movement options while maintaining the game’s unique analogue feel, achieved through mouse-controlled in-game wheel spins.
From Real-World Inspiration to Digital Innovation
As the development progressed, the team drew inspiration from real-world sports. Hamaue, another key developer, highlighted the use of a wheelchair basketball technique called tilting, which was adapted into the game using Joy-Con 2 controllers. This adaptation allowed players to lift one wheel off the ground, adding a dynamic element to the gameplay.
However, not all real-world techniques translated seamlessly into the game. Konishi shared the team’s exploration of movements like wheelies and 180-degree turns, which conflicted with other controls and failed to deliver the desired analogue feel. The breakthrough came with the BMX-inspired bunny hop, which, despite lacking real-world references, was successfully integrated after Konishi personally attempted the move in a wheelchair.
“We couldn’t find any reference material showing someone actually performing a bunny hop-like movement in a wheelchair, so we had trouble picturing what kind of arm movement would make the controls feel convincing.” – Hamaue
The Halfpipe Solution: Overcoming Development Challenges
The introduction of a halfpipe under the goal marked a pivotal moment in the game’s development. This feature addressed multiple challenges, including the analogue feel of slam dunks and player movement dynamics. Initially, the team struggled with how to handle the court’s edges, experimenting with walls, out-of-bounds penalties, and gravel, each presenting its own set of issues.
Konishi’s decision to place a halfpipe under the goal defied the team’s original plan but ultimately solved three major challenges: enhancing the analogue feel of slam dunks, facilitating player movement back to the court’s center, and influencing character design. The halfpipe allowed players to execute stylish aerial shots and return to the action swiftly, maintaining the game’s fast-paced nature.
“Introducing the halfpipe meant players could now launch themselves high into the air, adding airborne action to matches.” – Hamaue
Character Design and Strategic Depth
The game’s character design evolved alongside its mechanics. The introduction of the halfpipe transformed the gameplay into a more acrobatic sport, necessitating helmets and armor for the characters. This shift led to three distinct character types: the agile Guard, the balanced Forward, and the powerful Center, each inspired by different sports wheelchairs.
These character types add strategic depth to the game, allowing players to experiment with team compositions and strategies. The developers drew inspiration from the 1988 Famicom Disk System game “Ice Hockey,” aiming to create diverse gameplay experiences based on character abilities and team dynamics.
“Team composition and strategy can dramatically change how a game unfolds, so I encourage players to experiment and find a play style that suits them best.” – Konishi
Sound Design and Player Expression
Sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing the gaming experience, with different sound effects tailored to each character type’s weight. Yoshida, responsible for sound effects, emphasized the importance of intuitive sound-action links, ensuring that players’ actions are complemented by appropriate audio feedback.
Interestingly, the developers deliberately avoided giving characters individual personalities. Instead, they focused on allowing players’ gestures and play styles to define their characters’ personalities, promoting a unique and personalized gaming experience.
As players continue to explore the innovative mechanics of “Drag x Drive,” the game’s emphasis on skill, strategy, and creativity promises to deliver a captivating experience that challenges traditional sports gaming conventions. With its blend of real-world inspiration and digital innovation, “Drag x Drive” is set to leave a lasting impact on the genre.
