Post by The Smurf on Nov 14, 2006 20:49:51 GMT -5
before i get into this, i want to explain where it's coming from and where it's going. last month i bought Tales of the Abyss, the most recent american installment in Namco's Tales series. i really like how they set the backstory up in that game, but as i have not completed it i do not know where it's going to go. so, i've based my new story on the beginnings of TotA, but it will wind up going in a different direction as i take control. that being said, i give you...
FREEWILL:
Book of Prophecy
In a world that lives its life by the stars, a book was written at the dawn of time. This book prophesied the future of the world, in explicit detail. The book, as it is told, was released with three edicts concerning it. One, that the book will name twelve individuals to inherit the powers of the Guardians when it is opened. Two, that thrice would evil bent on obtaining this book threaten it. Three, that upon the arrival of the third evil, the book shall be opened and the names of the twelve read.
The third evil has begun to blossom itself into existence. People want to know their future, rather than waiting for it to happen. No one is satisfied with living their own lives and finding out what happens, they all want it to be given to them. As our story begins, two friends are kidnapped for an unknown reason. When they escape, they are secretly summoned to a meeting. Unsure of what to make of all this, their only choice is to look to the stars.
The World
The world our characters live in is one based on astrology. Lives are lived and choices are made based on horoscopes, relationships and marriages are based on signs, and medicine and fortune-telling are based on the position of the stars. Stereotypes are cast on those with different signs, and people are judged based on the Guardian they were born under. Can our heroes change this blind way of life? Or is it impossible for a few people to change the world?
The Characters
Laef Albright
Laef is your average townsperson who lives with his grandmother. He's always been rather quiet and he tends to brood somewhat, but he's always cheery around his friends. He always looks out for everyone's interests, often putting others before himself. He'd rather compromise and avoid confrontation if he can, and he generally prefers to acquiesce to others. Some may believe him to be easily manipulated.
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: August 17
Sign: Leo
Age: 19
Kat Turner
Kat is the younger sister of Tom Turner, Laef's best friend. She's a young, energetic girl whose sole mission is to live her life to the fullest. While she fights with her brother on a constant basis, deep down she really cares for him and knows he'll protect her. She cares deeply for all her friends and always puts on a happy face, even if she's down. She's always willing to cooperate and enjoys working with people. She puts her trust in everybody, which might be a slight downfall.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: April 30
Sign: Taurus
Age: 15
Autumn Camden
Autumn has lived with her younger sister for five years since her mother died of an unknown illness. The medication a doctor gave to her mother failed, and thus she's passionately resented doctors. She's become rather aloof since the incident, and feels that the only person she can talk to is her sister. She tends to walk away from situations and abandon childhood passions due to lack of interest. She seems to have given up in her life, and her pessimistic outlook on life tends to hold her back.
Weapon: Dagger
Birthdate: June 3
Sign: Gemini
Age: 22
Celyn Fable
Celyn has grown up in a rich family and lives in the Fable Manor. He's never seen the dark side of life, and as a result he takes things for granted. While he's been hit on by many women since he was a teenager, he's developed a strange fear of them and finds it very difficult to chat one up. He's very self-conscious, but enjoys life all the same. He's always willing to give, and everyone always knows what he's thinking...unfortunately that's not always a good thing.
Weapon: Spear
Birthdate: November 13
Sign: Scorpio
Age: 20
Adelia Hathorne
Adelia is a typical girl who lives in a typical town. She's very calm and collected and doesn't lose her temper easily. She's a very well-rounded individual and is somewhat good at multiple things, but doesn't particularly shine in any specific field. While she'll agree to work with people, she tends to prefer individuality and doesn't like to conform to a group for too long...some believe she has some type of social phobia and fears being categorized as part of a group. Could that be a weakness?
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: February 12
Sign: Aquarius
Age: 18
Lennox Reid
Lennox is a mercenary that who comes from a family with no money. He was forced to join the King's Army because he had no means of education, and was forced on his own when the army disbanded. As a result, he's not very intelligent, but he does have a lot of common sense. From growing up in a state of destitution he understands the value of even the simplest things, and he never spends a single moment idling. Though he tends to prefer working alone to joining a group, his job means he has to work for people. He, like Laef, tends to avoid verbal confrontation if he can, and is easily persuaded.
Weapon: Axe
Birthdate: October 16
Sign: Libra
Age: 35
Elke Hughes
Elke is a happy-go-lucky girl who never lets anything get her down. She grew up in an unstable household, with her parents fighting all the time. As a result, she tries to make up for it by being bright and cheery all the time. When someone tells her she can't do something, she'll go right out and do it, and when someone tells her she did it wrong, she smiles and says "oh well." Her biggest weakness, however, is that she tries to hard not to let anything get to her, and as a result she seems heartless.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: July 7
Sign: Cancer
Age: 23
Isaac Reynolds
Isaac is a deep thinker who is always scolded for thinking too hard. He's extremely intelligent, but tries not to show it as much as he can. He also believes that material things are worthless and the only things that are worth having are friendship, love, and family...but his saying so often results in unfortunate bullying. He tends to believe that anything worth having is worth fighting for, and is often willing to put his life on the line to fight for his beliefs. He's turned his back on his own family, who disapproves of his way of life, and has began his life anew as an ascetic monk.
Weapon: Mace
Birthdate: January 2
Sign: Capricorn
Age: 26
Atticus Lawrence
Atticus is a man of few words, so when he does decide to speak it's usually worth listening. He has a past shrouded in shadow, and he doesn't like to talk about how he's gotten to the here and now. One thing he does reveal, however, is that he joined the King's Army in order to belong, and to feel included. His only fear is being alone, however his inability to communicate is often mistaken for rudeness. He's worked his way up in the ranks, and is now an accomplished swordsman.
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: April 2
Sign: Aries
Age: 38
Blaire Rodgers
Blaire has been raised under her stereotype since she was a newborn, and she's despised it. As a result, she doesn't respect anyone whose beliefs differ. She's thrown the world away and is trying to rediscover herself and what it means to exist. She still finds it difficult to accept those whose beliefs differ, but she attempts to include everyone in her endeavors. Occasionally she seems cold and bitter toward the world, and that she has no compassion for mankind...she couldn't agree more.
Weapon: Dagger
Birthdate: March 19
Sign: Pisces
Age: 24
Sora Sasuki
Sora is a mercenary of sorts. She travels the land on her own in order to learn of worldly affairs. When she is needed she'll participate, otherwise she simply passes by. Her personality is very straightforward and direct. She's very moderate and never strays too far to one side, which tends to make her indecisive. While she's certainly not unintelligent, she isn't a genious either, and she makes mistakes frequently. However, she does take the time to learn from them so they don't happen again.
Weapon: Spear
Birthdate: September 22
Sign: Virgo
Age: 27
Aeron Laurion
Aeron seems like a stereotypical Sagittarius, but he's actually far from it. He couldn't care less about what happens after death, it doesn't matter to him why humans exist, and he certainly doesn't give a damn about why we think the way we do. He just lives for the here and now, and prefers things to stay static. He'd rather stay home and tend to his chores than go on a crazy adventure, but that's partially due to his age. He knows he doesn't have much time left, and that tends to hinder him some.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: December 15
Sign: Sagittarius
Age: 67
Features
Text boxes appear over the character and display his/her name above it, thanks to Ccoa
Larger party system that allows parties of size 5 or more if it's necessary
The same side-view CBS that Seraphim has, thanks to RPGAdvocate
more to come
Ability System
There are three different types of abilities that can be learned: chain techs, synth techs, and personal techs.
Chain Techs
Chain techs are the most common, and they consist of two parts: Bases and Branches. The Base Tech is the first ability of the chain, and it is the first one learned. As the character progresses, he/she will learn Branch Techs that are stronger versions of the Base Tech. A chain will normally have a Base Tech and two Branch Techs.
Synth Techs
A Synth Tech is learned later than Chain Base Techs, and it is a synthesis of two Base Techs. Eventually, you may even have a Synth Tech that is a combination of Synth Techs.
Personal Techs
A Personal Tech is a tech that only one character in the game can ever know. It is oftentimes his/her strongest attack and will be learned late in the game.
Elemental System
Each astrological sign has an element that corresponds to it.
Aries, Leo, Sagittarius - Fire
Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn - Earth
Gemini, Libra, Aquarius - Wind
Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces - Water
As for what element beats what, Fire is dampened by Water and smothered by Earth, Earth is dried out by Wind and parched by Fire, Wind is obscured by Water and suffocated by Earth, and Water is boiled by Fire and evaporated by Wind.
*all elemental info courtesy of wikipedia*
The Stereotypes
Aries: assertive, individualistic, enthusiasm, pioneering, leader, competitive, action-oriented, defensive, aggressive, intemperate, violent, fiery, powerful, extreme, arrogant, uncontrolled and unrestrained, quick, passionate, determined, fresh, head/skull
-in general, an Aries is an arrogant leader who acts without thinking
"I am"
Taurus: sensual, affectionate, possessive, cautious, acquisitive, musical, artistic, stubborn, solid, earthly, strong, patient, sturdy, slow, kind, just, throat/neck
-in general, a Taurus is stubborn and will patiently and passively fight to the death over being right
"I have"
Gemini: curious, multi-tasking, talkative, sociable, duality, mercurial, whimsical, intelligent, restless, quick, informed, hands/lungs
-in general, a Gemini is really smart but never knows when to shut up, often getting himself into trouble
"I think"
Cancer: sensitive, tenacious, family and home oriented, helpful, nurturing, moody, watery, protective, emotional, crabby, moody, loving, stomach/breasts
-in general, a Cancer is never in a good mood and is sensitive to any sort of criticism, making him somewhat anti-social
"I feel"
Leo: passionate, bossy, loves attention, dramatic, independent, noble, creative, leader, egotistic, sunny, bright, kingly, powerful, heart/back
-in general, a Leo is a strong leader who basks in the limelight, but prefers to work alone
"I rule"
Virgo: practical, work and service oriented, critical, common sense, modest, intelligent, health conscious, fussy, helpful, loving, flexible, intestines/digestion
-in general, a Virgo always knows how to get out of situations and are logical, but he tends to be pushy and wants everyone to listen to him
"I analyze"
Libra: partnerships, balance, grace, charm, debative, open-minded, cooperative, social, ideas, lazy, kidneys/lumbar
-in general, a Libra is social but likes to debate over anything...they are also ridiculously lazy
"We are"
Scorpio: intense, controlling, sexual, confrontative, deep, skeptical, mysterious, obsessive, death, transformation, genitals/reproductive organs
-in general, a Scorpio tends to lean toward the "gothic" side, not to mention tends to have an out of control sex drive
"I desire"
Sagittarius: philosophic, fun-loving, arrogant, adventurous, expansive, optimistic, blundering, believer, scattered, hips/thighs
-in general, a Sagittarius always looks on the bright side, while he literally looks to the sky and thinks all the time
"I seek"
Capricorn: ambitious, cautious, rigid, authoritative, cunning, competent, saturnine, inclined to politics/business, knees/skeleton
-in general, a Capricorn wants it all, but doesn't want to take any risks to get it
"I use"
Aquarius: friendships, humanitarian, cause-oriented, the group, society, progressive, eccentric, elitist, sophisticated, objective, nervous system/ankles
-in general, an Aquarius is always the best at everything, and always wants to be your friend...almost to a fault
"I know"
Pisces: feeling, duality, idealistic, spirituality, acceptance, undiscriminating, soul growth, martyrdom, artistic, neglectful, surrender, compassionate, feet/immune system
-in general, a Pisces is so religious he would sacrifice himself in a Holy crusade...he'll fight for what he believes in
"I believe"
*all info courtesy of wikipedia*
Screenshots
This is a prototype screen showing the various custom features of the game. Most of the credit doesn't go to me.
Here's a bit from the intro cutscene.
A little more...I do plan on changing the font eventually, by the way.
A little bit of the second intro cutsene.
As you can see, items are not limited to treasure chests.
The Arcul Weapon and Armor shop...just a glimpse of the multitude of weapons and armors available.
Have you?
The quiet, peaceful woods outside of town...no enemies, but a few treasures.
Demo
Download Here
----------------------------------
so there it is...the grounds for my new idea. it's going to be on XP, and i'll try to add as many features as i can get ahold of. meanwhile, i'll be updating this post with characters and features when i can.
enjoy...
-the smurf
FREEWILL:
Book of Prophecy
In a world that lives its life by the stars, a book was written at the dawn of time. This book prophesied the future of the world, in explicit detail. The book, as it is told, was released with three edicts concerning it. One, that the book will name twelve individuals to inherit the powers of the Guardians when it is opened. Two, that thrice would evil bent on obtaining this book threaten it. Three, that upon the arrival of the third evil, the book shall be opened and the names of the twelve read.
The third evil has begun to blossom itself into existence. People want to know their future, rather than waiting for it to happen. No one is satisfied with living their own lives and finding out what happens, they all want it to be given to them. As our story begins, two friends are kidnapped for an unknown reason. When they escape, they are secretly summoned to a meeting. Unsure of what to make of all this, their only choice is to look to the stars.
The World
The world our characters live in is one based on astrology. Lives are lived and choices are made based on horoscopes, relationships and marriages are based on signs, and medicine and fortune-telling are based on the position of the stars. Stereotypes are cast on those with different signs, and people are judged based on the Guardian they were born under. Can our heroes change this blind way of life? Or is it impossible for a few people to change the world?
The Characters
Laef Albright
Laef is your average townsperson who lives with his grandmother. He's always been rather quiet and he tends to brood somewhat, but he's always cheery around his friends. He always looks out for everyone's interests, often putting others before himself. He'd rather compromise and avoid confrontation if he can, and he generally prefers to acquiesce to others. Some may believe him to be easily manipulated.
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: August 17
Sign: Leo
Age: 19
Kat Turner
Kat is the younger sister of Tom Turner, Laef's best friend. She's a young, energetic girl whose sole mission is to live her life to the fullest. While she fights with her brother on a constant basis, deep down she really cares for him and knows he'll protect her. She cares deeply for all her friends and always puts on a happy face, even if she's down. She's always willing to cooperate and enjoys working with people. She puts her trust in everybody, which might be a slight downfall.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: April 30
Sign: Taurus
Age: 15
Autumn Camden
Autumn has lived with her younger sister for five years since her mother died of an unknown illness. The medication a doctor gave to her mother failed, and thus she's passionately resented doctors. She's become rather aloof since the incident, and feels that the only person she can talk to is her sister. She tends to walk away from situations and abandon childhood passions due to lack of interest. She seems to have given up in her life, and her pessimistic outlook on life tends to hold her back.
Weapon: Dagger
Birthdate: June 3
Sign: Gemini
Age: 22
Celyn Fable
Celyn has grown up in a rich family and lives in the Fable Manor. He's never seen the dark side of life, and as a result he takes things for granted. While he's been hit on by many women since he was a teenager, he's developed a strange fear of them and finds it very difficult to chat one up. He's very self-conscious, but enjoys life all the same. He's always willing to give, and everyone always knows what he's thinking...unfortunately that's not always a good thing.
Weapon: Spear
Birthdate: November 13
Sign: Scorpio
Age: 20
Adelia Hathorne
Adelia is a typical girl who lives in a typical town. She's very calm and collected and doesn't lose her temper easily. She's a very well-rounded individual and is somewhat good at multiple things, but doesn't particularly shine in any specific field. While she'll agree to work with people, she tends to prefer individuality and doesn't like to conform to a group for too long...some believe she has some type of social phobia and fears being categorized as part of a group. Could that be a weakness?
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: February 12
Sign: Aquarius
Age: 18
Lennox Reid
Lennox is a mercenary that who comes from a family with no money. He was forced to join the King's Army because he had no means of education, and was forced on his own when the army disbanded. As a result, he's not very intelligent, but he does have a lot of common sense. From growing up in a state of destitution he understands the value of even the simplest things, and he never spends a single moment idling. Though he tends to prefer working alone to joining a group, his job means he has to work for people. He, like Laef, tends to avoid verbal confrontation if he can, and is easily persuaded.
Weapon: Axe
Birthdate: October 16
Sign: Libra
Age: 35
Elke Hughes
Elke is a happy-go-lucky girl who never lets anything get her down. She grew up in an unstable household, with her parents fighting all the time. As a result, she tries to make up for it by being bright and cheery all the time. When someone tells her she can't do something, she'll go right out and do it, and when someone tells her she did it wrong, she smiles and says "oh well." Her biggest weakness, however, is that she tries to hard not to let anything get to her, and as a result she seems heartless.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: July 7
Sign: Cancer
Age: 23
Isaac Reynolds
Isaac is a deep thinker who is always scolded for thinking too hard. He's extremely intelligent, but tries not to show it as much as he can. He also believes that material things are worthless and the only things that are worth having are friendship, love, and family...but his saying so often results in unfortunate bullying. He tends to believe that anything worth having is worth fighting for, and is often willing to put his life on the line to fight for his beliefs. He's turned his back on his own family, who disapproves of his way of life, and has began his life anew as an ascetic monk.
Weapon: Mace
Birthdate: January 2
Sign: Capricorn
Age: 26
Atticus Lawrence
Atticus is a man of few words, so when he does decide to speak it's usually worth listening. He has a past shrouded in shadow, and he doesn't like to talk about how he's gotten to the here and now. One thing he does reveal, however, is that he joined the King's Army in order to belong, and to feel included. His only fear is being alone, however his inability to communicate is often mistaken for rudeness. He's worked his way up in the ranks, and is now an accomplished swordsman.
Weapon: Sword
Birthdate: April 2
Sign: Aries
Age: 38
Blaire Rodgers
Blaire has been raised under her stereotype since she was a newborn, and she's despised it. As a result, she doesn't respect anyone whose beliefs differ. She's thrown the world away and is trying to rediscover herself and what it means to exist. She still finds it difficult to accept those whose beliefs differ, but she attempts to include everyone in her endeavors. Occasionally she seems cold and bitter toward the world, and that she has no compassion for mankind...she couldn't agree more.
Weapon: Dagger
Birthdate: March 19
Sign: Pisces
Age: 24
Sora Sasuki
Sora is a mercenary of sorts. She travels the land on her own in order to learn of worldly affairs. When she is needed she'll participate, otherwise she simply passes by. Her personality is very straightforward and direct. She's very moderate and never strays too far to one side, which tends to make her indecisive. While she's certainly not unintelligent, she isn't a genious either, and she makes mistakes frequently. However, she does take the time to learn from them so they don't happen again.
Weapon: Spear
Birthdate: September 22
Sign: Virgo
Age: 27
Aeron Laurion
Aeron seems like a stereotypical Sagittarius, but he's actually far from it. He couldn't care less about what happens after death, it doesn't matter to him why humans exist, and he certainly doesn't give a damn about why we think the way we do. He just lives for the here and now, and prefers things to stay static. He'd rather stay home and tend to his chores than go on a crazy adventure, but that's partially due to his age. He knows he doesn't have much time left, and that tends to hinder him some.
Weapon: Rod
Birthdate: December 15
Sign: Sagittarius
Age: 67
Features
Text boxes appear over the character and display his/her name above it, thanks to Ccoa
Larger party system that allows parties of size 5 or more if it's necessary
The same side-view CBS that Seraphim has, thanks to RPGAdvocate
more to come
Ability System
There are three different types of abilities that can be learned: chain techs, synth techs, and personal techs.
Chain Techs
Chain techs are the most common, and they consist of two parts: Bases and Branches. The Base Tech is the first ability of the chain, and it is the first one learned. As the character progresses, he/she will learn Branch Techs that are stronger versions of the Base Tech. A chain will normally have a Base Tech and two Branch Techs.
Synth Techs
A Synth Tech is learned later than Chain Base Techs, and it is a synthesis of two Base Techs. Eventually, you may even have a Synth Tech that is a combination of Synth Techs.
Personal Techs
A Personal Tech is a tech that only one character in the game can ever know. It is oftentimes his/her strongest attack and will be learned late in the game.
Elemental System
Each astrological sign has an element that corresponds to it.
Aries, Leo, Sagittarius - Fire
Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn - Earth
Gemini, Libra, Aquarius - Wind
Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces - Water
As for what element beats what, Fire is dampened by Water and smothered by Earth, Earth is dried out by Wind and parched by Fire, Wind is obscured by Water and suffocated by Earth, and Water is boiled by Fire and evaporated by Wind.
*all elemental info courtesy of wikipedia*
The Stereotypes
Aries: assertive, individualistic, enthusiasm, pioneering, leader, competitive, action-oriented, defensive, aggressive, intemperate, violent, fiery, powerful, extreme, arrogant, uncontrolled and unrestrained, quick, passionate, determined, fresh, head/skull
-in general, an Aries is an arrogant leader who acts without thinking
"I am"
Taurus: sensual, affectionate, possessive, cautious, acquisitive, musical, artistic, stubborn, solid, earthly, strong, patient, sturdy, slow, kind, just, throat/neck
-in general, a Taurus is stubborn and will patiently and passively fight to the death over being right
"I have"
Gemini: curious, multi-tasking, talkative, sociable, duality, mercurial, whimsical, intelligent, restless, quick, informed, hands/lungs
-in general, a Gemini is really smart but never knows when to shut up, often getting himself into trouble
"I think"
Cancer: sensitive, tenacious, family and home oriented, helpful, nurturing, moody, watery, protective, emotional, crabby, moody, loving, stomach/breasts
-in general, a Cancer is never in a good mood and is sensitive to any sort of criticism, making him somewhat anti-social
"I feel"
Leo: passionate, bossy, loves attention, dramatic, independent, noble, creative, leader, egotistic, sunny, bright, kingly, powerful, heart/back
-in general, a Leo is a strong leader who basks in the limelight, but prefers to work alone
"I rule"
Virgo: practical, work and service oriented, critical, common sense, modest, intelligent, health conscious, fussy, helpful, loving, flexible, intestines/digestion
-in general, a Virgo always knows how to get out of situations and are logical, but he tends to be pushy and wants everyone to listen to him
"I analyze"
Libra: partnerships, balance, grace, charm, debative, open-minded, cooperative, social, ideas, lazy, kidneys/lumbar
-in general, a Libra is social but likes to debate over anything...they are also ridiculously lazy
"We are"
Scorpio: intense, controlling, sexual, confrontative, deep, skeptical, mysterious, obsessive, death, transformation, genitals/reproductive organs
-in general, a Scorpio tends to lean toward the "gothic" side, not to mention tends to have an out of control sex drive
"I desire"
Sagittarius: philosophic, fun-loving, arrogant, adventurous, expansive, optimistic, blundering, believer, scattered, hips/thighs
-in general, a Sagittarius always looks on the bright side, while he literally looks to the sky and thinks all the time
"I seek"
Capricorn: ambitious, cautious, rigid, authoritative, cunning, competent, saturnine, inclined to politics/business, knees/skeleton
-in general, a Capricorn wants it all, but doesn't want to take any risks to get it
"I use"
Aquarius: friendships, humanitarian, cause-oriented, the group, society, progressive, eccentric, elitist, sophisticated, objective, nervous system/ankles
-in general, an Aquarius is always the best at everything, and always wants to be your friend...almost to a fault
"I know"
Pisces: feeling, duality, idealistic, spirituality, acceptance, undiscriminating, soul growth, martyrdom, artistic, neglectful, surrender, compassionate, feet/immune system
-in general, a Pisces is so religious he would sacrifice himself in a Holy crusade...he'll fight for what he believes in
"I believe"
*all info courtesy of wikipedia*
Screenshots
This is a prototype screen showing the various custom features of the game. Most of the credit doesn't go to me.
Here's a bit from the intro cutscene.
A little more...I do plan on changing the font eventually, by the way.
A little bit of the second intro cutsene.
As you can see, items are not limited to treasure chests.
The Arcul Weapon and Armor shop...just a glimpse of the multitude of weapons and armors available.
Have you?
The quiet, peaceful woods outside of town...no enemies, but a few treasures.
Demo
Download Here
----------------------------------
so there it is...the grounds for my new idea. it's going to be on XP, and i'll try to add as many features as i can get ahold of. meanwhile, i'll be updating this post with characters and features when i can.
enjoy...
-the smurf