Time-Trial Prototype

The first phase of an ambitious combat racing project inspired by IGPX, Mario Kart, and Twisted Metal. This time-trial prototype establishes the high-speed racing foundation before adding transformation mechanics and vehicle combat.

Building toward a game that pairs Twisted Metal’s vehicular mayhem with IGPX’s transforming mech combat. But first, I need to nail the fundamentals.

Starting with a pure racing prototype to get the speed and movement right:

• Arcade-style vehicle controller tuned for aggressive, momentum-based racing
• High-speed physics that will translate to both vehicle and mech modes
• Control responsiveness that can handle the chaos of combat at 200mph+
• Countdown and Lap timer

Future additions will include:

• Weapon systems and combat mechanics
  • Weapons need to work differently in car and mech mode…
  • Attacking other racers can cause debris making the track more perilous
    • This would encourage players in the lead to engage with runner-up racers, giving lower-positioned players more chances to overtake.
• Transformation system between vehicle and mech modes
  • Car mode is all about speed and maintaining/catching lead.
  • Mech mode is for combat and creating chaos for other racers.
• Enemy AI Combatants/Racers
  • Diverse cast of interesting characters to choose from.
  • Racers will feel unique and have interesting back-stories.

Building in phases lets me validate each system before adding complexity. The racing has to feel perfect before a second mode and combat go on top.