The development of the innovative sports game Drag x Drive has been a journey of creative challenges and breakthroughs. As the game transitions from concept to a fully realized digital sport, developers have faced numerous hurdles, from designing unique controls to redefining gameplay mechanics. This article delves into the intricate process behind the game’s evolution, highlighting the pivotal moments and decisions that shaped its final form.
The Birth of a New Sport
The core gameplay of Drag x Drive began to take shape as a new sport, blending various elements to create a unique experience. According to lead developer Konishi, the team focused on making the controls for movement satisfying, incorporating tackles and quick turns to enhance player engagement. The goal was to provide players with more movement options without compromising the game’s unique analogue controls.
Konishi explained, “We wanted players to feel immersed in the gameplay, linking their physical movements to in-game actions through analogue controls. To achieve this, we set two conditions: movements had to feel natural and correspond clearly to mouse actions.”
Innovative Control Mechanics
One of the game’s standout features is its analogue control system. Hamaue, another developer, noted that the team drew inspiration from wheelchair basketball, incorporating techniques like tilting, where one wheel is lifted off the ground. This idea was implemented using the Joy-Con 2 controllers, allowing players to mimic real-life movements within the game.
However, the team faced challenges when attempting to incorporate more dynamic movements. Konishi recounted how they experimented with techniques like wheelies and 180-degree turns but found them incompatible with the desired analogue feel. The breakthrough came with the introduction of a BMX-inspired bunny hop, adding a new layer of strategy to the game.
“We couldn’t find any reference material for a bunny hop in a wheelchair, so I tried it myself,” Konishi said. “By tilting left and right quickly, I managed to lift off the ground by about 2 millimeters.” (Laughs)
The Halfpipe Solution
One of the game’s defining features, the halfpipe under the goal, emerged as a solution to multiple challenges. Initially, the team struggled with the court’s edges, experimenting with walls, penalties, and gravel, all of which proved unsatisfactory. The halfpipe concept, introduced by Konishi, revolutionized gameplay by enabling three-dimensional movement and stylish shots.
“Placing the halfpipe solved three major challenges at once,” Konishi explained. “It improved the analogue feel of slam dunks, facilitated quick returns to the court’s center, and influenced character design.”
Character Design and Strategy
The introduction of the halfpipe also impacted character design, leading to the creation of three distinct character types: Guard, Forward, and Center. Inspired by real-life sports wheelchairs, each type features unique attributes and designs that reflect their roles on the court.
Ikejiri, a member of the design team, emphasized the importance of visual clarity and strategic diversity. “We wanted players to easily distinguish character types during matches and explore different team compositions for strategic depth.”
“Team composition and strategy can dramatically change how a game unfolds,” Konishi remarked. “I encourage players to experiment and find a play style that suits them best.”
The Sound of Success
Sound design played a crucial role in enhancing the game’s immersive experience. Yoshida, responsible for sound effects, explained how character weights influenced the auditory feedback, particularly during landings from the halfpipe. This attention to detail ensures that players intuitively associate sounds with specific actions, enriching the overall gameplay experience.
Interestingly, the game deliberately avoids assigning individual personalities to characters, allowing players’ gestures and play styles to define their in-game personas. Konishi highlighted this design choice, encouraging players to express their unique personalities through gameplay.
Balancing Skill and Style
To balance competitive play with creative expression, the game rewards players for landing trick shots with a small bonus. This decision bridges the gap between players focused on winning and those prioritizing style, fostering a dynamic and engaging gaming environment.
“Winning is important, but we also wanted players to enjoy the thrill of landing cool shots,” Konishi stated. “Trick shots with bonus points can affect the outcome of a game, enhancing the strategic depth.”
As Drag x Drive continues to evolve, its development journey serves as a testament to the creative problem-solving and innovation that define the gaming industry. The game’s unique blend of analogue controls, strategic diversity, and immersive design promises to captivate players and redefine digital sports experiences.
