Development Update: Vertical Slice Prototype and Future Plans

The Source of Mana team is excited to share more details about ongoing development. Currently, our primary focus is on completing the prototype build, which will serve as a vertical slice - a fully playable demonstration of what the final game will look like. This vertical slice will include a complete gameplay loop with some features unlocked, allowing players to get a real sense of the game's future direction.

What is Source of Mana?

If you're new, Source of Mana is an early-stage 2D MMORPG developed using the Godot 4 engine, with a robust server architecture built to support seamless multiplayer experiences. The game features 2D pixel art graphics, bringing a retro aesthetic to life with modern tools and techniques. Immersive and carefully designed maps are built through the Tiled map editor, offering a scalable and flexible environment for level design. The development is heavily focused on establishing a solid technical foundation, including advanced client-server synchronization, efficient asset management, and support for a wide range of devices and platforms. We welcome contributors of all types of skills and would especially welcome pixel artists and programmers.

Current Milestones and Development Focus

We are progressing through a series of milestones leading up to the prototype release. Each milestone targets specific aspects of gameplay and functionality:

• Milestone 7: Our current milestone focuses on enhancing player interaction with NPCs, developing quest dialogue systems, tracking player progression through quest states, and enabling sailing across the overworld map. These features are crucial for creating an immersive and interactive player experience.
• Milestone 8: The upcoming milestone will involve integrating a SQL database to support permanent player progression, equipment management, and account creation. This will lay the groundwork for persistent gameplay and character development.

Looking Ahead

In total, there are approximately 10 milestones planned before we reach the final prototype stage. Once the prototype is complete, we will shift our focus to developing the game's tutorial and the first chapter of the story we want to propose. This narrative development is being spearheaded by team members WildX and NetSysFire, who are deeply involved in crafting the game lore and storyline. The game will have its own unique fantasy setting with lore, a complete world map and a main storyline that will accompany you throughout your exploration of the world of Source of Mana.

Release Schedule

Until we reach the final prototype stage (around Milestone 8), we plan to space out game releases every 4 to 6 months. This schedule allows us to concentrate on developing essential features and services. However, once we achieve this milestone, we aim to accelerate our release cadence and publish more frequent dev logs and game updates. This will let people know that Source of Mana remains active and in development, keeping you engaged and letting potential contributors know that we're ready to welcome them.

We are committed to making Source of Mana the best experience possible, and we appreciate your patience and support as we continue to build this world.

Stay tuned for more updates and join us on this exciting journey! Download SoM to test our latest version and join us on Discord/IRC to talk about development or simply hang out and accompany us during our endless nights of game development and cat pictures.