I’ve spent a few hours tonight getting the first person mode in. In the game you will be able to posses IMP bots and use them to dig, build and fight in first person.

Be sure to check it out in HD, or you’ll melt your eyes.

Although non essential at this stage and unlikely to be in the first alpha, I really wanted it prototyped, as it looks awesome. Definitely good trailer fodder.

Bonus points if you can spot the ZX Spectrum!

Come discuss it on the forums.

Development may be slowed for the next month, as I am currently deciding how to continue my doctorate. One of the potential outcomes of this is me taking Maia full time. I’ll need to seek funding at that stage, either through pre-orders or kickstarter etc. Now that’s a scary thought!

-Si

Here’s a quick look at the first test of the fluid simulation the game will be using.

It isn’t properly surfaced or shaded yet, but still gives an interesting insight into the terrifying awesomeness of the Lava.

The next step is building a surface so it can be properly lit and doesn’t look as blobby. I then plan to multithread it to allow for 4x the detail and volume. Its likely I will add an extra system for large bodies of fluid, that will reduce the CPU load even more.

Using my custom lighting system I can attach lights to some of the particles to make the lava bleed it colours onto the surroundings. When the lighting system is complete, every lava particle will emit light.

I may have to balance the lens reflections too. They are a bit overpowering when something as bright as the lava pops up.

Don’t forget to join the forum for chat and updates about the game!

-Simon