Super Mario World-style map for a RPG

[Canini]

A lot of platforming games have RPG-elements, but I was thinking about which aspects haven´t been used yet. A lot of RPGs have a world map too, which to me have always felt like a chore with random encounters and getting lost looking for the next town or dungeon. Lately I have been playing around with a RPG with a Super Mario World-style world map where the character moves along a predetermined but branching path. In this scenario, each dungeon and town would be a "level". By finishing quests in the town or finding alternatives goals in the dungeons new paths may be opened on the map. I think this map design can be achievable with simple usage of events and feels quite refreshing. It would also promote a more "bite-size" and episodic game design which I feel would make it stand out from the larger and more epic maps. 


What do you think about this idea, and are there any games that uses something similar? 

 

[GoodSelf]

I think this is a great way to do world maps.
A great example of an RPG that uses this method of world map is "The Legend of Dragoon".

It does limit you in some ways, but like you said, its perfect for an episodic game design.
I say go for it! 

 

[BigToastie]

as with most things if its implemented correctly then it will work


I would definitely say that the world map would need to be somewhat detailed and have some design to it, as you dont want to be staring at a huge area of grass, and move around to different locations on there without some detail (as it's still showing off your world)


It would be quite a nice design as I am not a huge fan of most World Maps by default.

 

[LaFlibuste]

Sure, it can work! Might make the world not feel as big, though, and will remove emphasis from exploration. But if it fits your game and it is what you want, go for it!



Games with similar system: FF Mystic Quest for SNES.

 

[Kes]

You might find this post useful, and the following one links to a demo for creating it. 


Unfortunately after all this time the screenshot in the first post is no longer hosted.  However, I'm a hoarder,


even though I'll never use it, and can upload it somewhere if absolutely necessary (I'd rather not do it automatically as my Photobucket is getting too big).

 

[Wavelength]

A lot of games do this in some form - it's essentially a more graphical "Stage Select" rather than an actual world map.  It's a fine design choice, but I personally don't like it most of the time as it breaks the sense that the player is a part of an expansive, connected "world" and can reduce player immersion.

 

[Canini]

Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions, all. I was thinking of having quite an elaborate map with dotted rouds connecting the towns and dungeons, similiar to ksjps17s example above. I will try to get some prototype screenshots up soon. 


 

 

[Kes]

This is starting to sound like feedback for a specific game, rather than a general discussion.  

 

[Canini]

Welllllll, I wouldn´t say that exactly. More like I got a little more concise idea about how I would do it if I used this idea for a game. 

 

[Kes]

That does not change the fact that this is not a general discussion but feedback for a specific game.


As you appear to have had the feedback you wanted


Closing