ClayEngineOSS Design Wiki - elide-us/ClayEngineOSS GitHub Wiki
Welcome to the ClayEngineOSS wiki!
What's all this?
Herein you'll find the design docs for the foundational game system being designed for this pile of technology.
The code is open source, building on widely known and open-source technologies. But what we're doing with it is where things get truly exciting. We’re developing a hybrid MMO with two distinct gameplay modes that seamlessly interact in a shared world. And what a world it is! With cutting-edge procedural simulations based on deep scientific principles—from physics to meteorology and geology—we aim to create a living, breathing environment that evolves dynamically, offering an experience that feels truly alive.
What is a "hybrid MMO"?
At the heart of this game is a concept that sets it apart from other MMOs: two interconnected game modes, each offering a completely different experience, yet existing in the same world. On one side, players can enjoy an RTS-style game where they command minions and manipulate the environment in real-time. On the other side, players will dive into the action as ARPG adventurers, seeking treasure, battling creatures, and exploring the world. These two playstyles directly compete for resources, which fuels a constant tension and opportunity for interaction. This interplay between RTS and ARPG players is where the game comes to life.
How does the RTS play?
In RTS mode, players take on the role of Dungeon Masters—commanders of dark forces, magical beings, or dungeon overlords. You'll manage resources, direct minions, and build elaborate dungeons, all while fending off the heroes (the ARPG players) trying to invade. As the Dungeon Master, your primary influence on the world is indirect. You issue commands to your creatures, who carry out tasks like gathering resources, building traps, or defending your lairs. Every decision you make affects the world: fortifying defenses, creating labyrinthine dungeons, or even setting up powerful bosses to crush would-be adventurers. Success relies on strategic planning and resource management, as you leverage the dynamic, voxel-based world to your advantage.
How does the ARPG play?
In ARPG mode, you are the Adventurer—a lone hero or part of a team, exploring, battling, and looting your way through dungeons and dangerous wilds. Whether you're a mage wielding the arcane forces or a warrior relying on brute strength, the game offers fast-paced, tactical combat where every choice counts. You'll encounter dungeons crafted in real-time by RTS players, meaning no two raids are ever the same. Your progression through the world is shaped by skill, strategy, and a willingness to adapt to an ever-changing environment filled with traps, monsters, and treasures. Exploration is key, but so is your readiness to overcome powerful bosses—many of which are controlled by the RTS players.
Bringing the World Together
The genius of this hybrid system is how these two modes come together to create a cohesive world. RTS players, acting as Dungeon Masters, lay the groundwork by building complex environments and controlling hordes of minions. ARPG players, in contrast, experience these spaces as ever-changing, procedurally generated dungeons full of danger and reward. The two groups not only compete for resources but actively shape each other’s experiences. Dungeon Masters will constantly seek to outwit and overpower Adventurers, while Adventurers will hone their skills and gear to take on ever-greater challenges. The result? A living, breathing world where every player action has ripple effects on the broader ecosystem, ensuring a rich and constantly evolving gameplay experience.