Ecosystem

by Tom Johnson, Slug Disco

The Developer Says...

Create virtual lifeforms whose development is shaped by a deep simulation of evolution. Guide them as they fight, mate, and adapt to the environment you have built. All the creatures in the trailer evolved on their own in the game!

Players Like...

❤ Procedural Evolution and Simulation

The game simulates the process of evolution and natural selection in depth. Players can create or spawn virtual lifeforms, whose development is shaped by a physically-simulated ocean environment. The synthetic DNA of these creatures encodes everything about them, including their skeletal structure, mental processes, and combat abilities. Players can either release randomly generated lifeforms and observe natural selection at work, or they can customize the traits and characteristics of the creatures. As the creatures evolve and adapt, players witness the fascinating process of natural selection, with certain traits and adaptations becoming more prevalent over successive generations. The neural network system that controls the creatures' behaviors results in a wide range of emergent behaviors and unique movement patterns as the creatures evolve.

❤ Customization and Terraforming

In addition to observing evolution, the game provides players with tools to customize and shape the environment. Players can sculpt the terrain of the ocean floor, creating features like mountains, caves, and other varied habitats. This allows players to craft unique ecosystems and see how the creatures adapt to the changes in their environment. Players can also customize the creatures themselves, adjusting factors like body size, limb structure, and other physical traits, to guide the evolutionary process.

❤ Ecosystem Simulation and Monitoring

As the virtual ecosystem grows and evolves, the game provides players with a wealth of data and information to track the progress of their creation. Detailed phylogenetic trees allow players to trace the lineages and evolutionary history of individual species, while population charts and other analytical tools provide an overview of the ecosystem as a whole. This depth of simulation and data tracking immerses players in the virtual world and enables them to observe the complex dynamics of the evolving ecosystem.

❤ Player Creativity and Sharing

The game encourages player creativity and sharing. It features Steam Workshop support, allowing players to share their custom-built species, maps, and aquariums with the community. Many players enjoy designing unique and often absurd-looking creatures, and then observing how these creatures adapt and evolve within the simulated environment. The game's emphasis on creativity and player-driven experimentation is a significant part of what makes the experience compelling.

❤ Relaxing and Immersive Experience

Players often describe the game as a "chill" or "therapeutic" experience, providing a welcome respite from more intense or competitive gaming experiences. The serene underwater environments, accompanied by a soothing soundtrack, create a calming and meditative atmosphere. The game's focus on observation and exploration, rather than explicit objectives or challenges, resonates with players looking for a relaxing and immersive simulation experience.

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