Hello everyone!
Last night was spent experimenting with some physics that will support new items related to improving vertical movement and making cave exploring faster and more fun!

Physics programming is not one of my forte’s so I have instead taken to modifying an existing implementation to try and add functionality that makes it suitable for Vitality. The main goal of what we are trying to only allow the rope/swinging physics to kick in when the rope is under tension. When it is in this stage, it is also desireable for the player to be able to perform a number of actions such as swinging.

Currently, it is quite challenging to get a couple of the desired features working, namely conservation of momentum when first going under tension to allow a full pendulum swing effect. similarly, allowing the player to begin oscillation by pressing the movement keys.

Though there is potential in place and we have a few exciting items planned once these mechanics are in place. As ever, we also have a great opportunity to encode progression of these items into the age system, allowing more advanced options to be available in the later ages as and when they are required by gameplay:

Climbing ropes - These will be single-use ropes you can throw up and then jump/grab and climb up (basically temporary ladders) Early-age item

Grapple rope - Similar to the one seen in the these gifs, you shoot it out and it hooks onto a block. The player remains tethered to it preventing you from falling and allowing some amount of swinging. This can be re-used and thrown/released on pressing a utility action. Middle age item

Rappel hook - A more advanced utility item which allows you to reel-in/reel-out, providing the most flexibility with regard to cave traversal.

This devlog post is more of an insight into the process behind the creation of certain gameplay mechanics, as opposed to just showing off the finished features!

If you are interested in Vitality, or want to get more involved with the development, feel free to join our (Discord Server)[http://www.discord.gg/nVPaDhf]!