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What's the stance on re-using stat blocks/battle systems?

A topic by MenacingMecha created 26 days ago Views: 128 Replies: 2
Viewing posts 1 to 3
Submitted(+1)

Barring code, what’s the stance on re-using stat blocks/battle systems from a previous project?

I have a lot of abstract content from a previously worked on RPG game jam project that could be re-tooled to fit in a DRPG, so I’d be able to cut down on scope if I could re-use them. Most of this content was inaccessible due to running out of time to balance.

Jam HostSubmitted(+1)

This is likely fine. But, you should consider these two relevant items from the FAQ:

  • Can I start working on the game before the jam starts? No. The game must be a new game project started and finished within the jam time frame, not just another week of work on an existing one. You are, however, strongly encouraged to have a working first-person grid-based view and movement set up ahead of time.

  • Is it okay to start working on feature X before the jam? If it’s a feature useful in making any dungeon crawler (e.g. rendering, movement, interactable doors, general UI), then probably yes, but if it’s specific to the particular game you want to make, then probably no. One way to think of it: if it’s a feature generally already provided by another engine such as Unity or RPG Maker, implementing those features in your engine of choice is reasonable prep work. No. The game must be a new game project started and finished within the jam time frame, not just another week of work on an existing one. You are, however, strongly encouraged to have a working first-person grid-based view and movement set up ahead of time.

Note: I know many people who participate reuse / repurpose their previous combat systems each year. For example, I have a dice rolling system that I reused / cleaned up prior to the start of the jam last year. It is generic enough that it can fit in many games.

Jam HostSubmitted(+2)

Yes, sounds fine. Things that can be used for multiple different games are "engine things" and those can be worked on in advance. The game itself and anything bespoke to that specific game must be done during the jam period.