Ship Collision & Building Enhancements: Feature Request

Hey guys, let's dive into some cool ideas to make our gameplay even better! This article discusses a feature request focusing on enhancing collision mechanics and expanding building possibilities on our ships. It's a two-part issue, so bear with me as we explore the details and potential benefits of these improvements. I'm really excited to share these thoughts and get your feedback!

The Problem with Current Ship Collision

Currently, interacting with the ship's hullback presents several challenges. The main issue lies in the inconsistent collision detection. You'll find yourself frequently falling through certain sections of the ship, making it difficult to navigate and access different areas. This inconsistent collision makes it hard to simply walk around on the ship, especially when the hullback is in motion. Imagine trying to reach the helm or adjust sails while constantly fighting to stay on board! Furthermore, the lack of collision on the ship's sides means there's nothing to catch you, leading to frustrating tumbles into the water. This not only disrupts gameplay but also limits the player's ability to effectively manage the ship during voyages. Navigating the ship should be an enjoyable part of the experience, not a constant struggle against physics. The existing collision issues significantly detract from the immersive experience of sailing and ship management. We need a more reliable and predictable system that allows us to move freely and confidently on our vessels.

To fully appreciate the impact of these collision problems, consider the practical implications. Simple tasks like repairing sails, manning cannons, or even just enjoying the view become unnecessarily difficult. The frustration of falling through the deck or being tossed overboard can quickly overshadow the excitement of exploration and adventure. The player's focus shifts from strategic gameplay to simply trying to stay on the ship, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. This is not just a minor inconvenience; it's a fundamental issue that affects nearly every aspect of ship-based gameplay. A robust and reliable collision system is essential for creating a seamless and immersive experience, allowing players to focus on the challenges and rewards of the game world rather than battling the physics of their own ship. It's about creating a space where we feel secure and in control, empowering us to fully engage with the game's possibilities.

One potential solution for this is to draw inspiration from the Valkyrien Skies mod. This mod offers a great example of how to implement a solid collision system for moving platforms. By examining how Valkyrien Skies handles player movement and collision on its airships, we can gain valuable insights into creating a more stable and intuitive system for our ships. This approach would not only address the immediate problems but also pave the way for future enhancements, such as adding interactive elements and expanding ship customization options. By implementing a robust collision system, we can create a more engaging and rewarding gameplay experience for everyone.

Expanding Building Possibilities on Ships

Once the collision issue is resolved, we can explore the exciting possibility of building freely on the ship's platform. This opens up a whole new dimension of customization and creativity! Imagine the ability to design and construct unique interiors, tailor the layout to your specific needs, and create truly personalized vessels. The idea is to transform the hullback's ship platform into a functional building space, similar to what's offered in Valkyrien Skies. This means that elements like the mast, helm, and other upgrades/trinkets would function as regular blocks, allowing you to integrate them seamlessly into your ship's design. The decks on the front and back of the hullback could be leveled to provide a smooth and even building surface, making construction easier and more intuitive.

To balance this increased freedom, a weight requirement could be implemented. This would add a realistic constraint, encouraging players to think strategically about their ship's layout and the materials they use. Weight limits could affect the ship's speed, maneuverability, or even stability, adding a layer of tactical decision-making to the building process. This ensures that customization remains engaging and challenging, preventing the creation of overpowered or impractical designs. By carefully considering the weight and distribution of their structures, players can optimize their ships for specific purposes, such as cargo transport, combat, or exploration. This adds depth and replayability to the game, as players experiment with different designs and strategies.

Furthermore, the ability to build freely on ships would significantly enhance the social aspects of the game. Players could create communal spaces on larger vessels, design specialized crafting areas, or even build elaborate living quarters. This fosters collaboration and teamwork, encouraging players to share their creations and learn from each other. The possibilities are endless, from constructing hidden treasure rooms to building sprawling multi-deck structures. The freedom to express creativity and personalize ships would transform them from simple vehicles into unique and cherished assets. This not only enhances the player's individual experience but also strengthens the sense of community and shared adventure.

A Vision for the Future

I understand that these suggestions represent a significant undertaking, but I believe they would greatly enhance the overall gameplay experience. While I recognize that this is a big and complex ask, I wanted to share these ideas because I'm genuinely excited about the direction this mod is heading. The potential for creating truly unique and personalized ships is immense, and these enhancements would unlock a whole new level of creativity and engagement. Imagine sailing the seas on a vessel you've meticulously crafted, complete with custom interiors, optimized layouts, and personalized touches.

These changes would not only improve the core mechanics of ship navigation and management but also add depth and replayability to the game. The ability to build freely on ships would transform them from simple vehicles into dynamic and customizable platforms, offering endless opportunities for experimentation and innovation. This would also encourage players to collaborate and share their creations, fostering a vibrant and creative community. By investing in these features, we can elevate the gameplay experience to new heights, creating a world where players feel truly empowered to build, explore, and adventure.

Ultimately, these improvements are about creating a more immersive and rewarding experience for everyone. By addressing the collision issues and expanding building possibilities, we can unlock the full potential of ship-based gameplay and create a world where the seas are truly ours to explore and conquer. I hope these ideas resonate with you, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts and feedback!

Conclusion

In conclusion, enhancing ship collision and enabling free building on ships are significant features that could greatly improve gameplay. Addressing the inconsistent collision issues will make ship navigation smoother and more enjoyable. Allowing free building would unlock a new realm of creativity and customization, making each ship a unique reflection of its captain's vision. While these are ambitious goals, the potential rewards are immense. By drawing inspiration from successful implementations like Valkyrien Skies and carefully considering the balance and implications of these changes, we can create a more immersive, engaging, and rewarding experience for all players. I believe that investing in these features would transform the game into something truly special, a world where the possibilities are as vast as the open sea.