-[Strange Attractors v2.0: COMING SOON!]-
Strange Attractors v2.0 is an evolution of its original one switch predecessor. In it you use your ships gravity drive to navigate and escape from complex labyrinths full of secrets, hazards, and antagonizing spacemen.
While the game's controls have grown to include an 'Anti-Gravity' button, and a 'Shockwave' attack (bringing the number of inputs to a staggering three!), the game is still completely playable (including menu navigation) with a single switch.
Ominous Development's goal is to create a game that can truly compete in an open market while still incorporating the lessons and features of a successful accessible game.
The simple and elegent gameplay of Strange Attractors 2 picks up where the original left off and adds a ton more including Classic Arcade, Labrynth and Multiplayer mode "Domination".
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Heres a quick interview with Scott, Lead Programmer on SA2
Q: From a technological standpoint, whats the major differences between the original Strange Attractors and its sequel?
Scott: The biggest difference is the move from partial 3d / 2d to full 3d. Even though the game is still played on a plane, almost everything is now a 3d model instead of a bitmap. The sound system also took a large shift towards 3d over 2d. Everything is based around your position as a player, thus sounds which should be heard to your left, right, etc, are now played as such. The entire engine in general has received huge upgrades across the board.
Q: What 3d engine did you use for SA2?
Scott: The 3d engine is actually one I wrote from the ground up based on Direct3D. It has since been dubbed the 'Ominous Engine'.
It has evolved from simple textured triangles all the way to taking complex models with animations and materials from 3d programs, and able to dynamically change their behavior as the game is being played. Takes full advantage of newer shader technology and supports other effects like dynamic shadows.
Q: Impressive. Whats been the best part of working on this project?
Scott: Being able to work on video games, something I've always been very interested in, and doing so along with some great friends I've had for a long time.
Q:Anything else?
Scott: I'm extremely proud to be a member of this team that has come essentially from nothing game design wise, and with very little help along the way we've progressed to what we are now.
Q:Thanks Scott!
Scott: Sure
Interested in beta testing? Email us!
-[Strange Attractors]-
Strange Attractors was created for a 'One Switch' competition. Just because the only button used by the game is the space bar (and Esc to exit) doesn't mean the gameplay isn't complex and unique. Remember, not everything that is simple is easy!
By pressing the spacebar, you activate the gravity drive of your craft and create an attractive force between yourself and the other objects in the game. Your goal is to sling and bounce yourself from the bottom of the level through the portal at the top.
I have never personally seen anyone play this game and not laugh out loud.
Download Strange Attractors version 1.2 here! (24MB)
Review this game at MadMonkey.net!
-[Soundtrack]-
Download the Strange Attractors soundtrack, an eclectic blend of ambient electro glitch hiphop by a:11thecorporati, aka chris:
-[Reviews]-
"In Strange Attractors, like in all good games, acts of horrific and insensitive murder like this will earn you lots and lots of points!" - Matt of Shock-Therapy
Check out a review of SA on Shock-Therapy
"In spite of the simplicity, there's a hell of a lot going on in this." - jrc313
"Boy, I don't know if everyone would, but I absolutely love this game. The simple elegance of the one-button controls have enraptured me." - alex(a)santacruzgames.com.