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Weekly Developer Update #19

Greetings, Commander! In this edition of the WDU, we’re embarking on on an odyssey through the ever-shifting cosmos of Cosmicrafts as we unravel the saga of our latest iteration.

In this cosmic journey, we confront challenges, celebrate triumphs, and chart a course towards an epoch-making game economy.

🔄 Iterate to Elevate

Iterations are the lifeblood of progress, and while we won’t dwell on the intricate details of our history, we’ll explore significant changes and the driving forces behind them.

Whether it was user feedback, technological advancements, or a quest for the ultimate gaming experience, every tweak had a purpose.

Let’s take a quick look on our cosmic journey through time and delve into the iterations that have sculpted the saga of Cosmicrafts:

After all, what is a WDU without a little bit of history?

Cosmicrafts Original 2016 Art by Kokin Kokambar

2016: Birth of a Vision

  • Crafted the story about factions and interactions.
  • Illustrated the first Characters and Units based on the documents.
  • Game design document laid the foundation for the game’s vision.

The evolution of Artwork

2017: Humble Beginnings

  • Basic 2D graphics, Photon multiplayer.
  • Buggy but playable prototype unveiled.

Cosmicrafts 2017

2018: Evolution Unleashed

  • Deck system introduced.
  • UI enhancements, single and multiplayer bots.
  • Social features like chat, emotes, and avatars implemented.

Cosmicrafts 2018

2019: Aesthetic Enhancements

  • Quality improvements in graphics, visual effects, and sound.
  • Integration with Google, Facebook Login.
  • Connectivity with AppStore and Google Play APIs for in-game asset sales.

2020: Adaptive Standby

  • Post-pandemic standstill, introduction to characters.
  • 3D assets remake, PHP deprecation.
  • Embraced a new approach with React for information states.

2021: Blockchain Odyssey

  • Introduction to characters and new VFX.
  • Integration with the Internet Computer.
  • Hosted the game on-chain with WebGL export.
  • Unveiled the first real-time multiplayer on the blockchain.

2022: Expanding Horizons

  • In-depth exploration of the Internet Computer’s capabilities.
  • Integration of NFTs and Token Rewards.
  • Experimentation with AI and Bots.
  • Documenting code for future talent, participation in hackathons.

2023: Social Cosmos Unleashed

  • Development of social features: chat, friends list, groups.
  • Implementation of token and NFT send and list features.
  • Integration of new technologies like WebSockets, ICP.NET.
  • Adoption of ICRC Standards, revamping multiplayer.

After Open Beta

In our current iteration, we embarked on a quest to rebuild and refactor the very fabric of Cosmicrafts.

Our first cosmic quest lead to the mystical realm of WebSockets — a warp-speed conduit to the blockchain’s core.

WebSockets: The Need for Speed

One big move was introducing WebSockets to speed up interactions with the blockchain. This meant getting info in milliseconds and tossing it into the multiplayer matchmaking mix.

Information flowed in the blink of an eye as we seamlessly integrated WebSockets into the multiplayer matchmaking.

But, you know how it goes — there’s always a twist.

ICP.NET: Bridging Realms, Crafting Realities

At the same time, we were on the GameDev grind, integrating ICP.NET with Unity. This arcane pact was more than a mere integration; it was a cosmic bridge connecting Cosmicrafts to a pantheon of operating systems — from the cosmic winds of Windows to the ethereal realms of iOS.

Yet, ICP.NET’s dance lacked harmony with WebSockets, unveiling a cosmic conundrum. Undeterred, we championed the cause of ICP.NET, embracing its cosmic weight as it took center stage in our cosmic ambitions.

Despite WebSockets success, ICP.NET took the spotlight, and we’re rolling with it, hoping for a better compatibility dance soon.

React to C#: Transitioning Tech

In the tech transition saga, we revamped the Login and Main Menu scenes to fit the new tech specifications.

Before ICP.NET, we used React to connect to the Internet Computer, and that React file was massive.

Now, we’re migrating to C# with ICP.NET, a process still in the works. The end goal? A Web3 version of Cosmicrafts for Windows, Mac, and Android, complete with multiplayer.

MVP with Photon: Keeping It Simple”

Taking another leap, we adopted a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for multiplayer using Photon. It’s a common move in the game development world. Grabbing a template for the game scene was part of the deal. Sadly, this meant saying goodbye to our old gameplay with bots.

The unity of ICP.NET and Photon brought some relief, but templates have their way of changing the game.

Challenges and Outcomes: The Real Deal

Like any development journey, we faced challenges and downsides in this iteration. It’s a work in progress, with the promise of a game economy shaping up in early 2024.

What’s Next for the Game Economy?”

Looking into the crystal ball for 2024, we’re gearing up for some exciting changes. Expect iterations like EVM integration, BTC compatibility, Marketplace enhancements, and the introduction of a decentralized exchange (DEX). It’s a roadmap filled with potential growth and innovation.

Wrapping Up

Why iterate, you ask?

It’s a quest propelled by the ever-evolving nature of technology, the desire for a sexier game, updates across the spectrum, and the occasional pivot to explore uncharted realms.

Iterating is an intricate dance, involving every aspect from artwork to game design. It’s not just about refining code; it’s about pivoting, exploring new horizons, and sculpting a gaming experience that transcends.

The Cosmic Mantra

Thanks for joining us on this edition, Commander. Until next time, may your cosmic endeavors be filled with innovation, joy, and countless adventures.

Stay iterated, stay cosmic and we’ll rendezvous again in the next cosmic update.

Warp speed ahead!


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