Education through Games: An Interview with the Author of "Our Universe"

Contents:

• The Value of Time in the Creative Industry
• Collaboration with Experts in the Gaming Industry
• Review of the Game "Our Universe"
• Development of a Board Game as Part of a Diploma Project

The value of time in the creative industry

Alexey Borisov-Gagarinsky, tell us about your experience and hobbies outside of your current projects. I'd be interested to know how your hobbies and previous experience influence your professional activities. What skills and knowledge gained in other fields do you apply in your work? What do you enjoy doing in your free time, and how does it help you develop as a professional?

Photo provided from the personal archive of Alexey Borisov-Gagarinsky.

I graduated from the Biology Department of Moscow State University, and then continued my studies at the Gorky Literary Institute. My experience spans various fields, including graphic design and advertising, allowing me to successfully produce AR applications at Cyber ​​Russia. I am constantly improving my skills by studying 3D modeling and video post-processing on Udemy, Udacity, and Stepik. I currently work as a 3D artist in the field of immersive attractions and have become a reviewing instructor at Skillbox. In recent months, I have been actively working on projects at our studio, Planet of People, especially the game, Our Universe, which has helped develop my professional skills and deepened my knowledge of the gaming industry. Finding time to relax in a busy workload can be challenging. However, it's important to remember that regular breaks can increase productivity and improve overall well-being. Effective time management and planning your day will help you carve out moments to recharge. Prioritize your tasks to free up time for short breaks. Incorporate active leisure activities into your schedule, such as outdoor walks or sports, which will not only distract you from work but also improve your physical fitness. It is also helpful to organize your workspace to minimize stress and improve concentration. It is important to find a balance between work and personal life to avoid burnout and maintain high energy levels.

I have virtually no free time, as I consider time an essential resource. When I have it, I think about how to use it effectively: which project direction to develop, which skill to improve, or what new information to learn. Despite my busy schedule, I try to find time for games, especially computer strategy games. As for cinema, I am interested in science fiction; I recently started watching the series "Black Mirror," which appeals to me with its unusual plot and relevant themes.

All of your studio's projects are focused on space. What attracts you to this theme? Space inspires with its vastness and mystery, offering endless opportunities for creativity and exploration. Your studio, exploring this topic, creates unique works that open new horizons for viewers. An interest in space also allows us to delve deeper into scientific aspects, making projects more meaningful and educational.

Space is the foundation of our team, uniting us with a common idea and philosophy. My passion for astronomy began in childhood, when at the age of six I first read an astronomy textbook by B. A. Vorontsov-Velyaminov. At that moment, imagining dust particles in the morning light as star clusters, I could not have imagined that space would become an integral part of my life. This early passion became the basis for a deep study of astronomy and an understanding of our place in the universe, which inspires me to this day.

As a child, I dreamed of becoming an astronomer, but over time, my interests evolved. In 2014-2015, I had the opportunity to meet passionate people, including the organizers of the Mars-Tefo site, and participated in a number of events at VDNKh. The book "A 100-Year Forecast for the Development of Cosmonautics," edited by Academician Boris Chertok, became a source of inspiration for me and prompted me to develop the idea of ​​"Our Universe." At that moment, I realized that space had become my calling and my purpose in life. My interests in astronomy and astronautics have led me to a deep understanding of the importance of these sciences for humanity.

Collaboration with experts in the gaming industry

Despite the active development of domestic game development, a biased attitude towards video games in Russia persists. However, our project is more than just a game. We are focused on collaborating with researchers, scientists, and industry leaders. How do we achieve this? We actively integrate scientific research and innovative technologies into the gameplay, which allows us to create high-quality content and expand our audience. Our goal is to change the perception of video games, demonstrating their educational and cultural potential.

As an experienced gamer, I understand the importance of a critical approach to many gaming projects. Our studio's philosophy is based on a clear understanding of the quality criteria necessary for creating a successful gaming product. We know what to consider during development and what to avoid. Our educational game, in which elements of fantasy are substantiated by scientific data, attracts the attention of experts in the field. The "Our Universe" project focuses on showcasing the achievements of Russian scientists and engineers. The game's plot revolves around the idea of ​​a Russian space agency, which eventually transforms into an international and, ultimately, interplanetary organization.

Specialists play a key role in our project, ensuring its successful implementation and development. Their experience and knowledge help shape the concept of video games, as well as optimize the development processes. We understand that these professionals' perceptions of video games are shaped not only by their work but also by their personal hobbies and interests. They see video games as more than just entertainment, but also as an opportunity for creativity, innovation, and audience interaction. This allows them to better understand player needs and create a higher-quality product that meets current trends and user expectations. Their contribution to the project is invaluable, and this is reflected in the final result – video games that can captivate and delight a wide audience. Consultants' attitudes toward games may vary and remain subjective. However, our specialists are knowledgeable about the achievements of both domestic and international game development. It's worth noting that Western developers truly demonstrate a high level of thoughtfulness in their projects, as evidenced by the many successful games on the market. We monitor current trends in the gaming industry and are ready to offer our clients relevant solutions based on global best practices. Working with consultants helps avoid mistakes in space-related projects. We are currently developing the board game Patria Nova, where the concept of an interstellar expedition and the design of the spacecraft were discussed several times with expert Ivan Moiseyev. This collaboration resulted in a high-quality result, which Ivan noted as "under discussion." Changes were also made to the descriptions of exoworlds located within 40 light-years of Earth. The game features 24 exoworlds, five of which are fictitious, but their descriptions are based on current astrophysical data. Astrophysicist and science popularizer Vladimir Surdin provided corrections. This approach ensures scientific authenticity and an engaging gameplay experience, making Patria Nova appealing to both board game enthusiasts and science buffs.

We develop unique assets for the game, paying special attention to the principles of creating space technology models. The main aspects of our work are realism, functionality, and aesthetics. We strive to ensure that each model reflects the real physical characteristics of space objects, taking into account their aerodynamics, materials, and technologies.

When developing models, we also analyze historical and modern achievements in astronautics, which allows us to create more believable and exciting game elements. We carefully work out the details so that each model not only matches the gameplay but also attracts players, creating an immersive atmosphere of space adventure.

We also focus on optimizing models for various platforms to ensure smooth gameplay without losing graphic quality. We believe that creating high-quality assets is a key element of a successful game project.

We focus on scientific and technical accuracy, but we recognize that excessive realism can reduce player interest and require significant time for expert approvals. Therefore, we find a balance between accuracy and engagement. Most of the models for the alpha version have already been completed, while others are at the approved sketch stage. For example, the layout of the laboratory inside the rover was developed based on a technical drawing by test cosmonaut Mark Serov. This allows us to create a unique and believable gaming experience that meets the needs and expectations of our audience.

Review of the game "Our Universe"

"Our Universe" is a unique project that combines elements of RPG, strategy, and simulation, belonging to the S.A.N.E. (Scientific Adventure and Exploration) genre. This game immerses players in a captivating space adventure where exploration and scientific discovery play a key role in the gameplay. Players will develop their skills, interact with various alien civilizations, and discover new worlds, making every session unforgettable. "Our Universe" offers a unique approach to the genre, providing deep interaction with the surrounding cosmos and its laws.

Players manage a space agency, designing and planning missions, as well as building spacecraft to explore the solar system. Their goal is to find a Second Home for humanity. Gameplay emphasizes exploring various celestial bodies and completing both main and side missions, allowing for deeper immersion in the storyline and discovering new horizons in space exploration.

The game features two main modes: strategic management and tactical missions. These modes allow players to seamlessly switch between planning and directly controlling astronauts during expeditions. The strategic mode focuses on mission preparation, including resource selection and tactical development. The tactical mode, meanwhile, allows for real-time control of the astronauts, enabling dynamic interaction with the environment. This approach creates a unique gaming experience that combines elements of strategy and action.

The developers of "Our Universe" were inspired by the squad management and NPC interaction mechanics of games such as Take on Mars and X-COM. This approach significantly deepens the story and makes the gameplay more interactive. As a result, players get a unique experience that combines strategic elements and a rich narrative component.

The game's protagonist is a passionate explorer ready to embark on exciting space adventures. His hard work and passion for space are clearly evident in dialogue and roleplaying. Players will be able to customize their character by choosing their gender and key attributes, allowing them to create a unique hero for their journeys through the universe.

Choosing a partner on an expedition significantly impacts gameplay. Astronauts' diverse skills provide unique opportunities and advantages when completing missions. This mechanic, similar to systems used in Fallout Tactics, adds depth to strategic interactions and allows players to adapt their approaches depending on their partner. The optimal choice of companion can significantly improve mission efficiency and enrich the overall gameplay experience.

The story spans two centuries, from the present to the distant future. It is divided into eight episodes, allowing players to immerse themselves in different time periods. Players can choose between genetic modification, which provides clinical immortality, or continue the story through the characters' descendants. This decision adds elements of heredity and emphasizes the long-term consequences of each choice, which makes the gameplay deeper and more engaging.

The in-game library, inspired by the UFOpaedia from X-COM, provides players with a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge and gain access to valuable resources. This functionality allows players to apply new knowledge to improve their efficiency and achieve better results in the game.

To successfully complete the game, players must complete all story missions and overcome a mysterious cosmic force known as FACTOR. The expected gameplay duration is approximately 80 hours, which highlights the ambitious and promising nature of the project. Players will face unique tasks and challenges that require strategic thinking and creativity. Every element of the gameplay contributes to an immersive experience, making the game attractive to fans of the genre.

Modern challenges in the field of software development are related to the shortage of qualified programmers and the need for financial resources. Experts believe that having an experienced team and adequate support are key factors for the successful completion of projects. In a competitive IT market, it is crucial to attract professionals and ensure the necessary investments to achieve high results.

Creating a detailed design document and testing prototypes have become key stages in the game development process. These actions help the team clearly formulate a project strategy. Feedback from testers plays a crucial role in optimizing the gameplay, allowing you to identify and eliminate flaws and improve the overall user experience.

Developing a board game as part of a graduation project

The recent completion of a game design course at Skillbox raises the question: what motivated you to take the course, despite your experience teaching game design at Synergy? Perhaps you sought to update your knowledge, master new methods and approaches in game design, or simply wanted to deepen your understanding of current industry trends. Studying at Skillbox could have been an opportunity for you not only to expand your skills but also to gain relevant information, which is especially important in the rapidly changing world of game design.

Voltaire noted: "The more you read without thinking, the more confident you become in your knowledge, but the more you reflect on what you read, the more clearly you realize that you don't know enough." This idea emphasizes the importance of continuous self-improvement and the pursuit of new knowledge. Reading without analysis can create a false sense of competence, while deeply understanding information opens new horizons and emphasizes the need for lifelong learning. The pursuit of knowledge is essential for personal and professional growth, as well as for a deeper understanding of the world around us.

As part of your thesis project, you decided to develop a board game based on the concept of "Our Universe" after a successful experience with the game "First Starts." Why did you choose this topic for your project? What inspired you to return to board game development?

Before starting the course at Skillbox, I realized the importance of developing a game prototype. In early 2020, I created a tabletop alpha version of "Our Universe," dubbed "Crater of Hope." This game was designed to test the game mechanics of a video game, which confirmed my initial hypotheses and helped clarify important aspects of the project. During testing, the idea of ​​​​delivering educational content in portions emerged, and a probability table was developed reflecting the impact of various factors on the expedition. I also found ways to integrate AR content into the board game, significantly expanding its capabilities and making the gameplay more engaging.

In September 2020, I began the game design course at Skillbox, as part of which I developed a prototype of the game Patria Nova. This course was an important step in my career, providing the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging game projects. Patria Nova, the result of my training, is an original concept that combines innovative elements and a deep storyline.

So, you have a unified brand, but the games have their own unique features?

The "Our Universe" brand represents a unified lore that unites all stories and characters. These characters and their characteristics echo the heroes of the alpha version of the video game. The board game Patria Nova is a sequel, continuing the story of "Our Universe". However, the gameplay of Patria Nova is significantly different from the original, offering new mechanics and approaches. In theory, "Our Universe" has the potential to expand the Patria Nova concept, including the possibility of developing spin-offs that will further explore exoworlds. However, such projects require careful consideration, since we do not yet know enough about planets outside our solar system.

Patria Nova was created based on a deep understanding of the needs of modern society and a desire to offer innovative solutions. Inspiration came from analyzing various cultures, technologies, and social trends, which allowed me to create a unique product that meets current user needs. The main goal was to develop a platform that would combine functionality, convenience, and aesthetics, while reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and social responsibility. Patria Nova is intended to be more than just a tool, but a full-fledged assistant in the lives of every user.

My main sources of inspiration were the books "Stronger Than Time" by Alexander Kazantsev and "The Planet Factory" by Elizabeth Tasker. Of the video games, I was particularly impressed by Outpost, Reunion, and Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri. In cinema, I was impressed by "Interstellar" and "Alien." The latter, a Russian film, masterfully illustrates the conflict between the media industry and the topic of space. This conflict is also reflected in the game Patria Nova: while the astronauts explore new worlds, a reality show unfolds on Earth, and "News from Home" event cards affect the crew's morale.

What are your plans for the further development of the board game concept?

In the near future, I plan to develop a prequel to Patria Nova, which will be an important step in creating the final missions for the video game "Our Universe." The new project, called "Patria Nova: Countdown," will focus on the development of an interstellar ship. The gameplay duration will be shortened, as will the number of game elements, but the core mechanics will remain the same. This prequel will allow for a deeper understanding of the world of Patria Nova and will prepare players for the final events in "Our Universe."

The Patria Nova demonstration at the GamedevHouse Moscow meetup was a success and attracted the attention of the participants. The developers presented the unique aspects of the game, highlighting the innovative mechanics and visual style. Participants of the meetup were able to get acquainted with the gameplay, ask the team questions, and share their impressions. This event provided an excellent platform for exchanging ideas and establishing contacts within the industry. Patria Nova demonstrated its potential compared to other projects, confirming the growing interest in the game among gamers and developers.

This meetup marked the second public playtest of the board game. Interestingly, in both cases, participants showed an active interest in the lore, carefully exploring descriptions of events and technologies. This may indicate that we are finding the right audience, or that the game's format and visual design facilitate deep immersion into the game universe. Such interest in lore details underscores the importance of creating a compelling and nuanced story, which, in turn, can increase the game's appeal to players.

The game continues to evolve, reflecting player desires. Playtesting has shown that players desire greater freedom of action for the astronauts, but the existing rules create engaging challenges. In future updates, we plan to add a faction of Neuroids, who possess artificial intelligence and unique logic. This faction will have more freedom in their actions, but will also be limited in their abilities, since they are machines, not people. The innovations promise to make the gameplay even more interesting and varied, offering players new strategies and tactics.

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