Don't Starve is a unique indie game in which gamers explore the world, collect resources, face dangers and try to survive. In this article, we will tell you about the history of the creation of Don't Starve, as well as share interesting facts and useful features.
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Who created “Don't Starve”
The game was developed by Klei Entertainment, a Canadian studio. Don't Starve was released in 2013, and it quickly gained popularity due to its unusual style and challenging gameplay.
Game idea
One beautiful Christmas holiday, one of the developers at Klei Entertainment came up with the idea for a game in which the main character was supposed to survive on an island. During the day, he could extract resources and food with an ax, and at night he had to stay around the fire fighting off pigs.
Gradually, the hero became hungrier, which led the character to death. The player's main task was to hold out as long as possible. Everyone liked the idea of the game, but it was put off until better times, coming back to it only a year later.
From free-to-play to paid content
When the studio began further developing Don't starve, the game's creators chose a free-to-play model: they decided to release it with a minimum amount of content and see if it would fit users. They were actively promoting the game, and it gradually became more and more popular. Then developers began to add paid “goodies” to it that could be purchased separately. At the same time, they continued to promote the game by coming up with various promotions.
Unique art style
“Don't Starve”'s visual style evokes Gothic aesthetics and dark works by Tim Burton, captivating with hand-drawn characters and their surroundings. A black and white palette with accents of color gives the game a unique atmosphere.
Gameplay
The player controls a character named Wilson, a scientist who is trapped in a mysterious world. The goal of the game is to survive as long as possible while avoiding monsters and other threats.
Players collect resources, build shelters, create tools, and explore the world around them. Each playthrough is randomly generated, making it unique.
Success and recognition
Don't Starve received positive reviews from critics. For example, at the Independent Games Festival 2014, the game won the Design Excellence Award. According to Jeff Marchiafava of Game Informer magazine, the cartoonish style makes exploring the vast, generated world a pleasure.
Additions and sequels
Subsequently, several add-ons to the game were released, such as “Reign of Giants”, “Shipwrecked”, “Hamlet”, “Newhome”, and the multiplayer version of “Don't Starve Together”, which allowed players to survive with friends.
Facts about Don't starve
#1
The game constantly generates unexpected difficulties and surprises that are clearly not pleasant.
#2
It is dangerous to stay idle in the game for a long time. If the hero is in the dark for a while, Charlie's monster rushes at him. This move was inspired by the creators of “Don't starve” by the text game Zork, which featured a similar monster named Grue.
#3
As the creators of the game themselves say, “Don't starve” is a mix of the well-known Minecraft sandbox and the fictional world of Tim Burton.
Developer tips: What Don't Starve can teach
Original graphic style
Consider what visual style will make your game stand out from others. Don't Starve uses eerie gothic with hand-drawn elements to make it easily recognizable.
Creating an atmospheric world
Decide how to make the game world atmospheric and keep players interested.
Relative complexity
Players who love Don't starve appreciate challenges that require strategic thinking and planning. If you also love challenging riddles and puzzles, try using them in-game.
Originality
Use random elements (such as procedurally generated levels) to make each playthrough unique and interesting.
Feedback from gamers
Actively engage with the player community, taking into account their feedback and suggestions, to make the game even better.
Thanks to the alpha testing phase that Don't Starve took place before its official release, the developers added new elements and mechanics to it.
Constant updates
Add new content and updates regularly to keep players interested in the project.
Multiplayer mode
Consider implementing a multiplayer mode so players can share experiences with friends.
Intuitive interface
Provide your game with a user-friendly interface that will be intuitive for gamers of all skill levels.
Musical accompaniment
Choose a catchy soundtrack and sound effects that could enhance the game's atmosphere.
Experiments with mechanics
Don't be afraid to experiment with game mechanics and try new ideas.
Creating a successful indie game requires creativity, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn! Does your child want to be a developer? Then write it down to free trial lesson at Progkids!
