With Seed, the developer studio Klang Games is working on an online game that aims to offer a novel gameplay concept. Seed represents a mix of Civilization and MMORPG.
Seed takes place about 1,000 years after the Earth has been destroyed. Humanity wants to settle on a new planet and build civilizations there. And you belong to these settlers.
Not a Standard MMORPG
Seed plays differently than what you would expect from “traditional” MMORPGs. For one, you do not take on the role of a hero, but of ten. You assign actions to these ten characters. As a side effect, this is also intended to minimize grinding in the game:
- One character collects resources,
- another is resting,
- the third is exploring a new area,
- the fourth is selling goods,
- the fifth is building a new structure,
- the sixth is farming, and so on.
Since each player embodies ten heroes, the game world is supposed to be populated by a large number of characters.
When you start Seed for the first time, you have the choice of either joining an existing player group or trying to build your own civilization from scratch. The first option is particularly suitable for beginners, as it allows them to join a group immediately and receive tasks.
However, it is necessary to deal with the rules and laws of this group. If you want to found your own civilization, you essentially start from scratch and have to work everything out for yourself. This means you collect resources to build structures and must try to convince other players to join you.
The Sims in MMORPG
It is also important to keep an eye on the mood of your characters. Here comes a “Sims” aspect into play. If a character is constantly on the ground and cannot lie comfortably in a bed, their mood drops and they become less effective. This can even lead to alcoholism and result in laws being broken. This, in turn, can have serious consequences. If one of your characters ends up in prison, you might have to manage with one less character for a longer period. If your heroes are satisfied, they also act more effectively.
By the way, your characters will carry out their tasks even when you are not in the game. Therefore, you should always make sure that everyone is satisfied before you log out. Those who are satisfied rarely do something foolish. If something extraordinary happens, you will receive a notification, for example, via email, so you can intervene quickly.
Players Run the Economy
The developers are currently considering an interesting payment model for Seed. You pay a certain amount for each life of your character and can purchase implants. Implants and perks grant your character specific bonuses. However, these items should also be tradable on the player-driven market. This is intended to create a self-contained economy. Supply and demand will determine it. This brings a bit of the feeling of an EVE Online.
There will be battles in the game, but they are not yet implemented. The team is still working on how health points will work. The combat system will be built on that. However, combat is not the only way your character can meet their end; there are also deadly diseases in the game.
The MMORPG features a unique graphic style with few textures and low polygons.
Very Ambitious Goals
Seed is a very ambitious game. You are actively involved with a group of ten characters in founding, expanding, and developing civilizations. Your characters also act independently, and you must ensure they are satisfied. Eventually, the entire planet is expected to be dotted with civilizations managed by players, including an economic system. Seed is planned to be released in late 2018, according to current plans.
More info about Seed:
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