Virtual Conquest!

[vandy1997]

It's out and going for $2.99. It looks pretty good! Link: http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/RecentlyAddedIphoneApplications-PinchMedia/~3/393885220/viewSoftware

[quartex]

Cool "Risk" for the iPhone. I've been looking for more strategy/conquest games, but I'd like to see some reviews of this before I buy it.

What I'd love to see is a port of the old Strategic Conquest for the iphone. It was a great classic turn-based warfare game, and simple enough you could probably implement it on an iPhone.

[chrisb3]

Cool "Risk" for the iPhone. I've been looking for more strategy/conquest games, but I'd like to see some reviews of this before I buy it.

What I'd love to see is a port of the old Strategic Conquest for the iphone. It was a great classic turn-based warfare game, and simple enough you could probably implement it on an iPhone.

Early reviews from iTunes say that there is little or no computer AI in this version and that the dev is working on it.

[quartex]

Early reviews from iTunes say that there is little or no computer AI in this version and that the dev is working on it.

Thanks for the heads up. For $2.99 I'm tempted to wait for a later version. I don't like rewarding developers for partially-functional products.

Now MotionX Poker on the other hand suddenly looks like a great deal.

[chrisb3]

I think I'll be waiting a bit on this one too.

MotionX Poker was a great deal at $4.99. Now it's an even better one.

[MrCubes]

Hi there,

I'm the developer of this application. I thought I should take a few moments to post some comments here (they're more likely to be read than the website at this point).

First, thanks for the interest. I've had some mixed feedback so far, but overall it has been positive. The big negative that people have been talking about has been the computer A.I. It was never intended for the first release to have a mature, expert level, A.I. However, for a number of reasons (which I won't trouble you with here) the A.I. wasn't as thoroughly implemented as planned - and an eleventh hour tweak actually backfired and ended up exasperating this (the lower inclination to attack that many have noted). I can only apologise for this slipping through.

Be assured that the A.I. will be significantly better with the v1.1 release that will be ready fairly shortly, and will continue to improve in subsequent releases too. In fact, from what I have seen of the reviews so far, I believe all the issues mentioned are already in hand.

I realise the v1.0 release has some rough edges but, computer A.I. notwithstanding, I hope the current pricing reflects that (I brought it down a tier from the original level). But for experienced players who really want to play a decent computer player, I'd recommend holding on for now. I won't be changing the price for v1.1, which I hope to hit the AppStore in the next couple of weeks.

I hope this helps.

Phil, at TwoBlueCubes

[quartex]

Thanks for the information, it's much appreciated.

When you get the chance it would be nice to see a video of the game to get some idea of how the gameplay works. I'm curious to see if it's a literal interpretation of Risk, or if you have added any new gameplay mechanics.

I understand how frustrating writing a good AI can be, so I look forward to version 1.1 to try out the game. Certainly a reduced pricepoint can cause more people to try your game.

[mek]

just purchased this, trying it out now

my suggestion would be, since you are assigning colors to each player, could it be possible to, on the territory that the player controls, like greenland for instance, if the territory could be the same color as the players.

looking at the lil boxes of color inside the territory is tough, when the territories are so colorful themselves, but i am use to other Risk Styled Conquest games, so maybe it just takes some time to get use to it

thanks

[NJPodder]

Phil, thank you for updating us on the status of the game. I, for one, am very appreciative when developers make an effort to participate with their audience. Most do, but it surprises how many don't. I was ecstatic when I saw this on the app store this morning, I was hoping someone would do this someday. I agree with the post by Mek, it could be neat to see the colors on the territories change per the color of the controlling player, but that might serve better as an option than a standard. Probably more difficult to program than it sounds, though.

I was wondering if you would be addressing the issue of starting territories? Half of the conquest-type game strategy comes form where you start your initial armies. I was really disappointed to see that the game auto fills the board and (I have only played a few games so far, so please correct me if I am wrong), but it seems it is the same spots every time.

Another thing that stood out to me was that after each game, you have to put all the players in again. Is there a way to make it save the player information from game to game? That way, I can do a quick rematch without putting in all the names again, especially helpful in a 6-player match!

All in all, I am really impressed and really happy that this is on my iPhone now, Thank you for all the hard work, and keep up the good work!

[dlogik]

PS. I love how the majority of developers are coming here to post updates, reply to customer feedback, and relay to us what's coming down the pipeline. What's even more interesting is that it seems all the indie developers are in on it...no word from the big boys. :)

[mavis]

PS. I love how the majority of developers are coming here to post updates, reply to customer feedback, and relay to us what's coming down the pipeline. What's even more interesting is that it seems all the indie developers are in on it...no word from the big boys. :)I think it's great, too. However, I think it would be ever BETTER if they would actually COMPLETE their games before selling them to us. Doesn't anyone else hate having to pay to beta test these apps? :mad:

[dlogik]

I think it's great, too. However, I think it would be ever BETTER if they would actually COMPLETE their games before selling them to us. Doesn't anyone else hate having to pay to beta test these apps? :mad:

The joys of being "early adapters" I suppose. :)

The good news is, the more feedback given, the more encouragement the developer has to continue making their game better knowing people have a keen interest in "their baby" sort of speak (at least we hope anyway).

[MrCubes]

Just thought you'd all like to know that v1.0.1 was submitted yesterday - should be available within a week (unless the updates review process has got longer again).

I decided on 1.0.1 instead of 1.1 as it doesn't really extend the game as such, just fixes those initial problems. This is what v1.0 *should* have been. Again, sorry guys. And, Mavis, I do agree with you - I hate that too - I'm especially embarrassed about the situation. This release has been extensively soak-tested, with no dangerous last minute tweaks. The A.I. is much better (certainly doesn't have the attacking problem) - although it is still being constantly improved, and player lists are remembered. There are also a few other smaller fixes, such as issues with rotation when setting up players, and the panning for the computer player is better.

More updates coming with features like: initial selection of territories, sound effects, further A.I. improvements (including selectable "characters") and more...

Hope you enjoy

[NJPodder]

Great news! Can't wait to try it out!

[MrCubes]

Well, v1.0.1 *should* have gone live by now, but the update was rejected. As rejection mails are under NDA now I can't discuss why, but will just say there was no valid reason for the rejection. Just another example of Apple really sucking at the submissions process I'm afraid (not that I can talk, under the circumstances).
Anyway, *the same binary* has been resubmitted and now has to go back through the review process again - looks like it's going to be another week I;m afraid.

[NJPodder]

Thanks for the update, and sorry to hear about the trouble and having to redo it all.

[sethwenen]

Phil (MrCubes)

First of all, thanks for being actively involved in the feedback. :)
It is sad to know that the update was rejected.
I hope the update comes soon, i have seen the reviews in youtube cuase im waiting for the update to download the game, apparently all the reviews are not happy with the A.I. they just recommend the download for those who have friends that wanna play the game.

Additionaly, in the videos I dindt see any territory cards for extra army to deploy if you own the territory that matches the card. This would be a really good addition to have the new update accepted by the appstore.

Thanks again mate. :)

[MrCubes]

Phil (MrCubes)

Additionaly, in the videos I dindt see any territory cards for extra army to deploy if you own the territory that matches the card. This would be a really good addition to have the new update accepted by the appstore.

Thanks again mate. :)

The update, which was resubmitted at the weekend, just includes the features I previously mentioned. I'm currently working on the next update, which will include even more improved A.I., sound effects, and some other minor changes. It may also include elective starting positions (if not this update then the next one).

Currently these cards only relate to bonus armies, but you're not the first person to ask for territory cards. I may consider this for a future update but it won't be in the next one.

Thanks all for your continuing feedback (note that the webstite, at http://www.twobluecubes.com, does now have a feedback form too).

[MrCubes]

Finally!
Just thought I'd let you know.

[Ebola]

Hey man,

I just wanted to say thanks for all the hard work you put into this. The new version is great. My wife loves the game as well, and it will probably be the first app she buys when she gets her iPhone in a couple weeks.

[majormauser]

New Icon - Much better.:)

[NJPodder]

Yeah, I agree. I also like the new icon better. Maybe it's the OCD in me, but I love all my icons to have the same square look. LOL. I am so glad to see developers participating in the forums with their customers, and seriously listening to feedback. This is a prime example of an excellent game that benefited from it, although I know a lot of the great changes were already planned and in the works already. I would think as a developer, hearing people tlak aobut your game would help in the motivation to continually improve upon it.

I love the idea of future multiplayer network support. I am sure that is a huge undertaking programming-wise, but the fact that it is possibly in the works will take a game that is already worth it's price tag, and pretty much make it a steal.

[mek]

instead of having to add the players, it would be nice to have an autofill quick play feature where you hit a button and it automatically selects players and names them and puts you right into the game

[nanokiwi]

After the update I am pleased to report that this is now a fun, polished strategy game, and I highly recommend it. Go on, take a RISK!

[Leadfoot5]

Wanted to thank the developer for bringing this game to the iPhone. Been playing Galcon a lot and have been hoping for a Risk clone for some time. Can't wait for Network play to be added!!!

[NotYou]

A challenger appears:eek::

http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=292538570&mt=8

[mek]

A challenger appears:eek::

http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=292538570&mt=8

that looks like a lot of fun, i will have to download it when i get home tonight

I like how the colors change accordingly to the user that owns the territory

[MrCubes]

that looks like a lot of fun, i will have to download it when i get home tonight

I like how the colors change accordingly to the user that owns the territory

It was only a matter of time.
From what I have seen there is room in the market for both of us.

Interesting times...

[NJPodder]

Well, I have been playing both, and I admit, Lux has some nice touches. I like that the territories change color based on who owns them, I like the slider showing who has more armies out there, and I like the little info box, however, the things I HATE about Lux are:

*No auto-resume function. It is SO annoying having to go back to the home screen when I am so close to winning, only to find out that when I go back, it's a whole new game.
*You can't pick your opponents and it is you vs. AI only.
*You always have to be Blue. How pretentious of you, Lux, to assume that I only like the color Blue. Let me pick my own color!!
*No choosing your stating location. I think it is great to have an OPTION to auto-fill the board for quick games on the go (Especially on a hand-held, and especially on a version with no auto-resume feature), but seriously, it is not the same game without choosing your starting locations. We used to sit around for hours and hours playing Risk back in college, and this was HALF of the whole game. That's where you begin to build your strategy.
*Lux does not show you your cards until you have a set to trade in. It tells you how many you have, but you don't know how far you are from completing a set until you have the chance to trade in, then it shows you all your cards.
*When you do win, all yo uget is a splash screen for their desktop game. What shameless self-promotion!!
*Free?? Where do you get off making yourself Free, Lux!?

The AI is quite good in Lux, and it's not out of the question to have the AI completely kick my ass, but for the time being, I think I am going to stick with Virtual Conquest. I believe it to be the better of the two even at the price of $2.99 vs. Free.

[mek]

Well, I have been playing both, and I admit, Lux has some nice touches. I like that the territories change color based on who owns them, I like the slider showing who has more armies out there, and I like the little info box, however, the things I HATE about Lux are:

*No auto-resume function. It is SO annoying having to go back to the home screen when I am so close to winning, only to find out that when I go back, it's a whole new game.
*You can't pick your opponents and it is you vs. AI only.
*You always have to be Blue. How pretentious of you, Lux, to assume that I only like the color Blue. Let me pick my own color!!
*No choosing your stating location. I think it is great to have an OPTION to auto-fill the board for quick games on the go (Especially on a hand-held, and especially on a version with no auto-resume feature), but seriously, it is not the same game without choosing your starting locations. We used to sit around for hours and hours playing Risk back in college, and this was HALF of the whole game. That's where you begin to build your strategy.
*Lux does not show you your cards until you have a set to trade in. It tells you how many you have, but you don't know how far you are from completing a set until you have the chance to trade in, then it shows you all your cards.
*When you do win, all yo uget is a splash screen for their desktop game. What shameless self-promotion!!
*Free?? Where do you get off making yourself Free, Lux!?

The AI is quite good in Lux, and it's not out of the question to have the AI completely kick my ass, but for the time being, I think I am going to stick with Virtual Conquest. I believe it to be the better of the two even at the price of $2.99 vs. Free.

also the sound gets to you after awhile

what i would love to see is a game like
Dice Wars
http://www.gamedesign.jp/flash/dice/dice.html

where its a simple random generatring map
the ai responds by attacking whoever is stronger, which adds to some strategy
I do like how in both of the touch games, the A.I has different personalities..it would be nice to set them, kinda like how the old school tank wars..scorched earth could be set up [different genre, but you could tweak the enemy]

i dunno,

its still fun to play both, cause they both have their unique qualities that make them both great games

[chrisb3]

also the sound gets to you after awhile

what i would love to see is a game like
Dice Wars
http://www.gamedesign.jp/flash/dice/dice.html

where its a simple random generatring map
the ai responds by attacking whoever is stronger, which adds to some strategy
I do like how in both of the touch games, the A.I has different personalities..it would be nice to set them, kinda like how the old school tank wars..scorched earth could be set up [different genre, but you could tweak the enemy]

i dunno,

its still fun to play both, cause they both have their unique qualities that make them both great games

ooo....dice wars. I'd love to see that.

[NJPodder]

Off topic, but in response to your post Mek. I am PRAYING someone makes a good scorched earth clone. I used to LOVE that game. Right now, we have cannon challenge, which is fun, but it;s one player only!! and we have that 99 cent games pak which has a really really awful looking version of it. I want a REAL dedicated scorched earth clone, with various weapons, destructible environments (I Loved being able to blow up the ground under my oppononet when I couldn't hit them directly!!) Maybe the graphics could be updated, to look like Cannon Challenge, but play old school. Imagine what they could do making it multiplayer. Now that is one I would pay a lot for!!

Sorry, too off topic there, but you can't mention "Scorched Earth" around me without me going completely CRAZY with excitement.

[mek]

Sorry, too off topic there, but you can't mention "Scorched Earth" around me without me going completely CRAZY with excitement.

i hear ya on that one, the only thing that I know of that is being developed like Scorched earth, is Worms, but there is no ETA...and hopefully an indie developer can blow us out of the water with a new Touch Twist on the entire genre