StarSmasher roadmap

[johnbowers]

I wanted to let you guys know the short term release road map for StarSmasher.

1.0.2 released
The inverted controls should now be available on the App Store via an update.

1.0.3 in review:
-A new class of grey asteroid that is virtually indestructible (with normal weapons).
-More feedback when you are hit and/or you hit the minelayer.
-New “pretty” menus which really help make the game look polished. (I'm attaching a screenshot)

1.0.4 in development:
I still haven’t quite figured out how to add a “story” but I’m working on it. I imagine the 1.0.3 update will be available on Thursday (hopefully) so I’m shooting for having some basic levels by then (its going to take a slight redesign of the game engine, I had really imagined a single level game when I designed it). I’m thinking about splitting it into a level-based mode and a “free fly” mode which will basically be the same as the 1.0.3 update.

[mavis]

Looks promising, and it's nice to be getting even more value out of our $2!!

I'm just installing 1.0.2 now; I'm anxious to put the inverted controls to use!

[tkphotograph]

I personally think that this version should be priced at $0.99. Then after when you come out with a story, and a polished menu you could vamp up the price as StarSmasher2.

[mavis]

Originally Posted by tkphotograph

I personally think that this version should be priced at $0.99. Then after when you come out with a story, and a polished menu you could vamp up the price as StarSmasher2.

This game shoudl be priced at $0.99 when Tetris costs 10x as much?! I mean, I'm all for lower prices, but I think this app is priced fairly ATM. Since we will get the updates for free (plus the enjoyment of being able to play the game in its current state in the meantime) I don't think requesting lower pricing for early adopters is, in this case, necessary.

[MattB]

We can argue til we're blue in the face about prices, but it's simply too subjective. The market sets the price, and the developer's willingness to adjust the price up or down.

My personal opinion about the price is that it is very reasonable, especially if the game gets updated and gets even better. I haven't tried this new update yet, because I had to restore my iPhone for the 3rd time (fingers crossed this 2.0.1 firmware fixes my problem.) But judging by the roadmap, I'd say this game is getting more promising all the time.

StarSmasher is a game in a pretty new kind of genre for the iPhone. The developer has nothing to go on, except gut instinct and what he considers fun. Give it time, and we'll see more space shooters on the iPhone, I bet.

[arn]

Star Smasher is doing quite well, up to #43 amongst all paid apps in App Store.

Congrats!

arn