I think the general rules would include that you can't use animation, but you could use static images. For example, there's no reason why you couldn't use some sort of placemat to keep the text. Also, I think it'd be okay if you just used a simple input method, like say using inkey or scancode or a button command. press 1 to go north, 2 for east, 3 for south, 4 for west, or something like that. But using a simplified method like that might not win you the competition because, as people have mentioned, more complex input systems would be more impressive and would definitely score better. I also think you should be allowed to use ink and cls-rgb commands to help make your adventure prettier, although I wonder if some people might argue that. But I'm pretty adamant about having a maximum file size requirement between 3 and 5 mb.
What about a time limit? I'm trying to gauge how long this would potentially take someone and that's hard to figure out. If it were, say, 3+ months, would that be too long or not long enough?
Another thing. I think that because this is pretty much a TGC competition, the rules should state that the game be made the hard way, by coding it, rather than using a text adventure maker or some other fabricating software. Or in the very least, coding should be strongly encouraged. I think you have a lot more freedom coding than you do with one of those pre-fab programs (and I doubt many would argue there). As far as what languages it can be coded in, that's completely up in the air... I think that while it will most undoubtedly limit the total number of registrations, we should stick to TGC languages because we are, after all, TGC shareholders on Alexadex
Another thing: To avoid confusion, we should firmly define the difference between a text adventure (where you read a large block of text and then choose an action or type one in) and those Sierra games Like King's Quest and Space Quest (where you typed in your actions, but played via 2D semi-isometric).
In terms of story, no licensed stuff (you can't make "Matrix the text adventure" or Star Wars or something like that), and you can't USE licensed stuff (images, music, whatever). But you should be allowed to use royalty-free or self-made music.
Lastly, and I think this is pretty obvious, but I think only pre-compiled entries will be accepted. No sending source code expecting the judges to compile it for you. I suppose that's fairly obvious but I wanted to say it anyway
If we can find 3 to 5 judges I think we could do it fine. Maybe we could try to find two prizes, one given away by official judges, and the other given away by community voting. I dunno, this is all in the earliest stages of my thought process... I didn't expect this thread to grow this big overnight, either
I don't think this competition will be happening this month, either... it'll probably begin on June 1st or something. Anyway, let me know what you think of all that
Edit: Saikoro, don't test me
lol I should make a game like that just to be funny, a Radiohead NY liberal game, hehehehehe
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