This month, we introduced the Pseudo-DNA feature into our game, marking a significant advancement in how we simulate genetics within our game world. This innovative approach has already shown promising results in enriching the gameplay and realism of horse breeding mechanics.
Pseudo-DNA feature illustrated
Initial System Overview
Previously, our system modeled horse skills—such as speed—by averaging the skills of the parents. This method, while simple, led to predominantly average outcomes and encouraged players to breed horses somewhat indiscriminately, prioritizing quantity over quality due to the randomness of outcomes. This approach, visualized in our first graph, displayed a uniform distribution of skills across 1,000 horses, emphasizing the limitations of averaging parental skills.
Two-parent average system, it's random values
Introduction of Pseudo-DNA
Drawing inspiration from real-world genetics, the Pseudo-DNA concept was introduced to simulate the inheritance of traits more dynamically. In nature, traits are passed through alleles, with each parent contributing one allele to their offspring. This model allows for a more nuanced and realistic representation of genetic inheritance. For example, considering stamina, a parent with high stamina represented as "TT" and another with medium stamina as "Tt" could produce offspring with either high ("TT") or medium ("Tt") stamina. There is also a small chance for genetic mutations, just like in nature. This new system results in the emergence of distinct bell curves for skill distribution, as shown in our second visualization with the same amount of horses, effectively demonstrating varied genetic outcomes with some predictability.
Pseudo-DNA feature, values are more predictable but it's rare to make a legend.
Features of the Pseudo-DNA System
- Traits and Alleles: The game simulates ten different alleles, including speed, stamina, acceleration, and more, with color to be added in the future.
- Gameplay Integration: The visibility and accuracy of the Pseudo-DNA information depend on the player's stud manager skill level, adding depth to the role and decision-making process in breeding.
- Balancing and Testing: Ongoing adjustments and testing ensure a balanced and engaging experience that mirrors the complexities of natural genetics.
New game cover art
For the past month, we've had the pleasure of collaborating with an exceptionally talented artist and studio, Imad Awan & Rayven Studios, on the new cover art for our game. While the previous cover was created using AI, and we remain neutral in the AI versus human art debate, there's an undeniable charm and depth to artwork crafted by human hands. We are absolutely thrilled with the final product; it beautifully captures the spirit and excitement of horse racing. Working with Imad was a delightful experience, and his professionalism and Rayven Studios creativity exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend exploring more of his work and considering him and Rayven Studios for future artistic endeavours. Their ability to bring our vision to life has truly enriched our game's visual appeal. Rayven Studios website & Imad's instagram profile & website.
New artwork.
With the new cover art setting a high standard, our attention is now turning towards enhancing the art within the game itself. Our goal is to elevate every visual aspect, starting with the racing scenes that feels “empty”, we look forward to sharing a sneak peek of the improved racing scene in our next devlog.
Transaction system
The implementation of our new transaction system has surpassed our expectations. This foundational upgrade has not only met but exceeded our goals, providing a robust platform upon which we can build future transaction-dependent features. Some of these have already been added to game, with the introduction of regular, monthly salary payments to employees. Testing this has brought forward scenarios like “what if the CPU player runs out of money?” - more about this later.
A game-wide refactor that utilizes this new, detail-oriented transaction framework has been done. The precision and depth of the record-keeping functionality stand out, laying a solid foundation for the development of future game mechanics. As you can probably gather, we are extremely happy about this feature even if the player will likely never see it directly.
Sneak-peak into database, nerd stuff.
Employment features
Introduction of work history for individuals, enhancing character depth and history.
Example of work history
Odds
We've introduced our initial iteration of calculating odds, using a mathematical formula with some “consistent randomness” - meaning the odds for a specific race will always be calculated with the same variables. This makes it so the odds can be show in history without storing all the data for each race. While this marks a first step forward into the world of odds, we recognize that the system hasn't yet reached its full potential. To ensure thorough understanding and transparency, a dedicated devlog will be prepared to delve into the nuances and future directions of our odds calculation feature in the future.
Furthermore, recognizing the diverse preferences of our player base, there will be options to allow players to customize how odds are displayed.
Examples of odds calculated in a race, horse form is also now available but needs to be improved with colors to make it easier to read with a glance.
Horse valuation
In anticipation of the forthcoming trading and auction features, we've developed an initial model for assessing horse values. While this model is operational and serves its intended purpose, it's clear that refinements are necessary. One notable issue is the models's current heavy weighting on a horse's age, leading to a dramatic decrease in value as a horse approaches the age of 10-11 years, often reducing its worth to negligible amounts. This devaluation occurs regardless of the horse's substantial career earnings or its potential value in breeding, which can significantly contribute to an owner's assets. The model could also evaluate future stars higher than currently.
Current valuation model, take into consideration that N is only 637 in the table.
Recognizing the importance of breeding capabilities and their impact on a horse's overall value, it's evident that this aspect requires further integration into our valuation model. Additionally, our current understanding of real-world horse market values may not fully capture the nuances of actual pricing. Moving forward, we will explore these areas in detail, aiming to refine our valuation process to better accommodate a somewhat realistic value, thereby enhancing the depth and realism of our trading and auction systems.
Sheep Meadow Road Games
During this month we also started a company for the game. This won't effect the game. If you are a talented pixel artist, check out our website and contact us.
What’s next
Our next update is likely set to concentrate on the economic aspects of the game, particularly enhancing the mechanisms surrounding horse trading and auctions. This update will delve into interactions and the dynamic scenarios that arise within our game. A significant focus will be placed on the behavior of CPU players, especially how they manage and balance their financial resources in response to what the simulation throws at them.
We understand the challenge of making the game's economy both realistic and enjoyable. Our idea for a solution is to design a variety of simple strategies - what we call “mini-strategies” - for the CPU players. These strategies, if enough of them, should help them make financial decisions that seem sensible and varied, making the game feel more alive. Instead of just focusing on buying and selling horses, this approach will also cover how to budget for auctions, manage stables, investing in facilities, and invest in horse training. Our aim is to create a game where economic decisions are important and engaging, offering a deep and enjoyable experience.
We are continuously working to enhance Horse Racing Manager, and your feedback is invaluable. Don't forget to add Horse Racing Manager to your Steam wishlist! Your support is crucial for us and greatly appreciated.
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2740170/Horse_Racing_Manager/