Version 0.16 update

To all our dedicated playtesters and community members, thank you! As your feedback keeps shaping the next iteration of Torque Arena I'm thrilled to share version 0.16, which incorporates many of your insights.

Summary

• mOAr terminology improvements
• terrain rules
• better game effects
• hobby support

Terminology & Clarity

Version 0.16 introduces subtle yet significant shifts in terminology for enhanced clarity. The seeker roles Bash, Shift, and Flick are now Basher, Shifter and Slinger making them more grammatically correct and semantically clear. Similarly, the objective of "sundering" the rival's totem is now expressed as "felling" it.

The classification of game elements has also evolved from Static (S) / Mobile (M) to Stable (S) and Unstable (U) in order to provide a clearer and more functional distinction when it comes to terrain interaction and climbability. Speaking of which...

Terrain Rules

Appendix II finally offers a first draft of terrain rules. This fully optional section introduces nuanced rules for movement, interactions and throws across a vertical axis, adding a dynamic new dimension to arena navigation and play.

While still in development, different Terrain Types introduce unique alterations to how some basic actions behave, allowing for more varied arena designs and strategic considerations. They will also be the backdrop inspiration for the creation of specific Terrain Elements, further building a unique identity and playstyle for specific arena/environments.

Refined Mechanics

The Game Effects section has been expanded with more detailed explanations and new additions.

The Scatter mechanic now makes the torque behave more violently, handling it as a hostile throw then interacting with a seeker.

The Fall mechanic is now more complete and streamlined, accounting for some possibilities due to the new terrain rules, as well as the new options of the Push action. 

The effects of a Push have been expanded to include a Shove and Tire options. These additions introduce more nuance to seeker interactions.

Furthermore, the Throw action now includes more specific details regarding torque interactions. The core throwing process remains, but v0.16 provides explicit outcomes for throws interacting with mates, terrain, totems, and rivals. This increased specificity aims to reduce ambiguity and ensure smoother gameplay.

Play Materials & Resources

Appendix I now provides guidance and resources for hobby players that wish to build their game from scratch. It lists all the needed components for a game of Torque Arena and references a whole separate document (available soon) providing them in the form of printable tokens, cards, paper miniatures and arena segments.

An explicit section about how to convert the game from discreet hexgrid to granular measurements is also in the works and will find its home here.

What's Next?

These updates in Playtest v0.16 reflect the ongoing commitment to developing Torque Arena into a compelling and balanced game. The clearer terminology, improved document structure, and deepened mechanical explanations all contribute to a more enjoyable and accessible experience.

The next big step, covered in a soon-to-come article, will be the Narrative Campaign system and its development. Stay tuned!