https://ldjam.com/events/ludum-dare/53/delirium-and-deliverance

Yesterday we finally managed to deliver our contribution for the Extra category. But unfortunately, although we initially aimed for Jam, we missed the deadline, and then, as it happens, it took a lot of work to force ourselves to finish.

For half of the team, it was a return to Ludum Dare after three years (albeit without our good friend @Wolar, who is waiting for the delivery of his child), for the others, it was the first game Jame ever. Before the game jam, we decided to add one more condition - we will make a horror game. Even though we were not so happy with the topic after it was announced, surprisingly, I managed to come up with a design on the way to our office and then impose it on everyone else.

But the original Jam's three days were like child delivery. We planned to make a horror walking simulator where the player plays as a mother who has to hide from the hospital staff and carry her newborn daughter out of the hospital. But we overscoped as usual; failed to integrate some tools; some had to attend to other duties; prepared some mechanics like sound detection and doors on keys and scrapped them at the end; I completely forgot how to work with the blender. It was a mess.

On the other hand, it was a blast, at least for me. I got to write code for the first time at the Jam and for the first time for a 3D game. And I learned a lot of things that I will definitely use at the next Jam.

Lessons learned:

• Limit scope at the bare minimum, you can always add new things later, and it is better than wasting time on something that needs to be scratched out.

• Try all the tools before Jam.

• Assess the level of commitment from each team member. It's okay if someone wants/can give Jam less time, but it's necessary to take it into account.

To wrap it up, we will be delighted if you play our horror game Delirium and Deliverance and leave us feedback.

And if you want something scary, we bring you a judgmental baby.

See ya next time at Ludum Dare.