Background

When I first played Outer Wilds, I realized what truly great game design could be. Its approach to knowledge-based progression showed me that games don’t need grinding or constant upgrades to be engaging. They can reward curiosity, observation, and understanding instead.

That game left a lasting impression on me. Ever since finishing it, I’ve had the idea in the back of my mind: What if I tried building something like that myself?

The game

The project I’m starting is set on a future Earth, now completely underwater. You’ll explore sunken cities, research stations, and long-forgotten technologies. All of this to uncover what really caused the extinction of humanity.

There won’t be combat, enemies, or skill trees. Just you, the world, and the mystery. Progress will come from paying attention, interpreting clues, and gradually piecing together the story through exploration and insight.

Weekly Devlog #01

Ocean and water

Right now I’m using a water shader I found online as a temporary solution. It does the job for now, but there’s a visible grid pattern on the surface that breaks the immersion a bit. Eventually, I’ll either tweak it or create a custom shader that better fits the atmosphere I’m going for. For now, it’s good enough to start building around.

The submarine

Other things

I have started putting together some of the basic game systems. Things like triggering events when you approach objects, or interaction with certain items. These are still early implementations, but they lay the groundwork for how the player will uncover information and interact with the environment.

I have also downloaded and organized some early asset packs, mainly coral and rock formations. They are temporary for now, but they give me something visual to build around and test with as I prototype the game world.

What’s ahead

I’m not brand new to programming. I’d say I’m somewhere around intermediate level, but I’ve never actually made a full game. That’s about to change.

To stay motivated and keep things moving, I’ll be posting weekly devlogs here, along with a monthly video on YouTube.

This is just the beginning. I have no idea where the path will lead, but I’m excited to find out.

Thanks for being here.