The onboarding process for Riftstorm is designed to be straightforward but includes an optional immersion phase (Retainer Academy) that may delay entry into gameplay for some players. However, players can bypass this process via Steam, ensuring accessibility for those seeking immediate gameplay. This dual approach caters to different player preferences and enhances overall accessibility.
The game does not require a Web3 wallet initially, making it accessible to players unfamiliar with blockchain technology. This lowers the barrier to entry and allows players to engage with the game without needing to understand Web3 elements upfront.
Riftstorm's core gameplay mechanics are engaging and innovative, featuring procedurally generated dungeons, boss fights, and cooperative missions. The inclusion of customizable Weavers and diverse playstyles adds depth and replayability, which are key indicators of good gameplay design.
Web3 elements are seamlessly integrated into the game and are optional, ensuring they do not disrupt the core gameplay experience. Features like World Consequences and Asset Ownership enhance the game's economy without overwhelming players or detracting from the user experience.
The game offers flexibility in onboarding through the Retainer Academy and Steam download, catering to both lore-focused players and those seeking quick access. This balanced approach ensures accessibility while maintaining an immersive experience for those who desire it.
Riftstorm’s emphasis on cooperative missions and its procedurally generated content ensure a high level of replayability and engagement, which are essential for long-term player retention and satisfaction.
Introduction
In the rapidly evolving world of Web3 gaming, striking a balance between accessibility for new players and engaging gameplay mechanics is crucial. Riftstorm, developed by Confiction Labs, aims to integrate blockchain technology into its core gameplay loop while maintaining a user-friendly experience. This report will cover:
The onboarding process and its accessibility for new players.
The core gameplay mechanics and their balance of complexity and accessibility.
The integration of Web3 elements and their impact on the user experience.
Onboarding and Accessibility
Riftstorm’s onboarding process is designed to be straightforward, though it includes a unique induction phase called the Retainer Academy. [1a]The induction consists of a short questionnaire, a personality archetype test, and a case study to unlock access, which adds a layer of immersion but could potentially be a barrier for players seeking immediate gameplay. [1b]However, players can bypass this process by downloading the game directly through Steam (see Kevin's video presentation below), which offers a more traditional onboarding experience. [1c]
The Retainer Academy induction process immerses players in the game’s lore but may delay entry into gameplay. [1a]
Players can opt for a quicker onboarding experience by downloading the game through Steam, which removes the induction phase. [1c]
The onboarding process does not require a Web3 wallet initially, making it accessible to players unfamiliar with blockchain technology. [2a]
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Riftstorm is an action RPG roguelite that combines procedurally generated dungeons with cooperative gameplay, offering both single-player and co-op modes. [1f][3a]The game’s primary objective is to defend the Occultical universe from cosmic threats by completing missions, which are designed to be challenging but rewarding. [3b]Players can choose from six unique Weavers, each with customizable weapons, and engage in missions that range from solo play to cooperative challenges, with the latter being the recommended experience. [4a][1g]
The game features procedurally generated dungeons with boss fights, offering replayability and varied challenges. [1f]
Players can choose from six unique Weavers and equip them with customizable weapons, allowing for varied playstyles. [4b]
Cooperative missions are emphasized as the best way to experience the game, though solo play is possible but more challenging. [1g][3c]
Web3 Integration and User Experience
Riftstorm’s Web3 elements are designed to be optional and seamlessly integrated, ensuring that they do not disrupt the core gameplay experience. [2a][5a]Blockchain technology is primarily used for features like World Consequences, which records player actions on-chain, and Asset Ownership, which prevents item duplication and double-spending. [5b]The game’s Wrap/Unwrap mechanics allow players to convert in-game items into NFTs for trading, though this functionality is managed outside the game client to maintain accessibility. [5c]
Blockchain elements like World Consequences and Asset Ownership are designed to enhance the game’s economy without disrupting gameplay. [5b]
The Wrap/Unwrap mechanics allow players to trade items as NFTs, but this process is handled outside the game to keep the in-game experience streamlined. [5c]
The developers have abstracted Web3 elements to ensure that players can enjoy the game without needing to understand blockchain technology. [2a]
BIGwiki's Video Presentation
In this short video clip, BIGwiki's game researcher Kevin offers his view into Riftstorm's gameplay, highlighting not only the key features and mechanincs, but also:
Demonstrating the freely accessible Steam access and process for onboarding.
Providing the dates for when the game can be played while undergoing its pre-alpha testing phase.
Riftstorm successfully balances accessibility for new players with engaging gameplay mechanics, while integrating Web3 elements in a way that enhances the experience without overwhelming users. The game’s onboarding process offers both immersive lore-based induction and a streamlined Steam download option, ensuring accessibility for players with varying levels of patience and familiarity with Web3. Future research could explore the long-term impact of Riftstorm’s Web3 features on player engagement and the game’s evolving narrative.
The onboarding process provides flexibility through the Retainer Academy induction and direct Steam download.
Core gameplay mechanics, including procedurally generated dungeons and cooperative missions, offer both accessibility and replayability.
Web3 elements are seamlessly integrated, with optional features like World Consequences and Asset Ownership enhancing the game’s economy.
