JonathanBoakes

The End of an Era - Pastures New

2011-09-12T09:19:00.000-07:00

Escaping one Darkling Room to find another, 'cos it's moving time!

It is with some sadness that I say goodbye to the old Darkling Room, across the harbour in East Looe.

It's really odd seeing it so empty. It has seen some times, that place, including the production of Dark Fall - Lights Out, The Lost Crown (2 a half years!) and Dark Fall - Lost Souls. It's been a great base for operations, keeping me safe and sound for nearly a decade. I wonder if any of the games will haunt the place? I recorded Amy Haven's songs, myself, from inside a wardrobe in the bedroom. It would be nice and spooky to imagine future occupants hearing her humming that broken sing-song version of the Dark Fall theme. Ha ha!

Thinking back, a LOT of the sounds and dialogue were recording in the apartment, all those years ago. It took us 7 hours, non stop, to record Emma Harry, playing Lucy Reubans for The Lost Crown. Bloody seagulls. Every time we got half way through a line…

SQUARK KA KA KA KA KA KA KA!!!!

Which, after that long day, always sounds like a mocking laugh. Dratted things. But, we got there eventually. Sorry Emma, and Matt, who was on the headphones, hearing every squawk and scream. These days, we record in a studio (budget helps!), so have no such worries. But, I do miss those simpler times for various reasons. It was great to write, create and struggle in that place. It has a lovely view of the harbour to distract and inspire.

Living near water gives everything a rhythm, here in Looe. Outside the window was the working Harbour, which never bored me. Fishing trawlers line the east side of the Quay; battered, creaking and rustic. The west Quay, on the opposite side, has moored pleasure boats, yachts and catamarans worthy of Joan Collins. Really quite glamorous. Like two different worlds, facing off each other, across the water.

Two rivers feed the harbour, (East and West Looe Rivers), as well as the sea. Ahhh, the sea, eh? Once you've lived near the sea it is very hard to imagine being land-locked. The Spring and Autumn tides can cause minor flooding (usually a fun affair, but it can get scary!).The weather is all-important in places like Looe. It influences ALL. Winter saw the town lashed by sea storms, hidden in fog or just deathly empty, like Saxton. Summer was very different, with bright sunshine reflecting off the crisp, clear harbour water, to create swirling patterns across the ceiling and walls of the apartment. Bit like being in a Jacques Costeau film, a bit trippy, but very chillaxing.

East Looe is very different to West, which is where I currently rent a property (stuck deciding where to move). East has all the shops, pubs, beach, club (Boscarn! Yay!), train station, doctors, banks, etc etc etc. It's a small town, basically, with pretty much anything you would need. West Looe, on the otherhand, is smaller and set back from the Harbour. It exists around a village square (Princes Square) with shops, a dog hairdressers (!!) and, of course, the oldest pub in town. It's an atmospheric little spot, especially at night. The woods tower over this side of town, with hooting owls and pheasants.

It's more like living in a rural parish, if I'm honest. It makes a nice change after the resort lifestyle of East Looe. Basically, Looe has quite a lot to offer, in terms of variety. It's quite 'cut off' too, if you consider the nearest main town is Plymouth, in the neighbouring county of Devon. Yeah, I can't say I'll ever regret leaving London. Once you 'get out' you get out for good. My little apartment was a great investment, enabling me a change of lifestyle that I thought I'd only ever imagine. It's been cool.

View Larger Map

But, all things come to an end. They always do. So, goodbye Darkling Room Number One. I hope your successor is just as good, wherever it may be, as you're a hard act to follow. I also hope your next occupants treat you well. Just remember, if you need to, haunt them with a bit of Amy Haven humming, or maybe some zombie -like snarls, or just Nigel saying 'Hellloooo, is there anybody there…." over and over with no skip button.

Jonathan

P.s. I've just heard that someone from 'up country' is likely to make an offer on the place. That's the weird bit. When you know you'll have to hand over the keys, and never go back. Weird.

P.p.s. Obviously, if anyone else fancies a complete change of lifestyle and living, Darkling Room Number One is UP For Sale!!

Number 1 Buller House, The Quay, East Looe, Cornwall

It's a super apartment, for self, holidays or the like. It's sad to let it go, but I have to thnk about moving onwards, and upwards, as that is the nature of things. I just don't have a single bloody clue where it is going to be!! :)

TLC2 - Building the stage, shaping the characters...

2011-09-10T09:35:00.001-07:00

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A few 'behind the scenes' images from The Last Crown, if only to show that I DO work. Honest! Very hard, especially this year. I did think about out-sourcing alot of the tasks, but I'm not sure I would have felt the same about the game, given that it's a very personal project, which I make and fund myself. So, there's been a lot of new things to learn (especially 3D software). I was bound by ability (lack of!) when making the first game, but I'm a bit more clued in this time round, which can only ever help the game be more enjoyable.

Working on Nigel, specially smaller details, like his safety pins, flat cap and beard. He's not exactly an action hero, no no no, but he is a lot more 'active' in the sequel and part three. He just moves better, and looks more 'alive'. Bit skinnier too. Perhaps Mrs.Slaughter has stopped serving those greasy slices of pizza. Mind you, Nigel never actually ate anything in-game. He fed it all to Cairan, the pig! So, with a pinch of a vertex here, the addition of a polygon there, the new Nigel is ready for action. In several outfits.

A new phone box has appeared too, on the Quayside. It was buried under lobsterpots for decades, but it's been 're-discovered' by Nigel and Lucy. As with all things in Saxton, the cover-up may have been for a reason. A good reason. Something connects the dwellings and businesses of town, with threads stretching out across the harbour, in all directions. In the centre of the the web is a building, which Saxton fans will know quite well. The letters G.P.O. may be a clue.

One of the things that pleased me the most, in the Lost Crown, was all the movement. Fog, pollen, birds, rain, etc etc etc. It was cool. My previous games, Dark Fall 1 and 2, had been set with technical limitations in mind (and budget limitations). So, I created very quiet, still places. But, Saxton is set mostly outdoors, with all the lively trimmings of a Harbour Town! Argh! It just HAD to move.

So, I've been working on ways to get even more going on, and push the game engine a bit more. Some think I'm mad taking the Wintermute Engine, and making it do things it wasn't designed for (1st person panorama game for example!), but I'm familiar with the software, so feel very comfortable. That's why I can experiment a bit, in confidence. Plus, it's more fun. I like seeing how far you can push things. It's also a good way of learning, without getting bogged down or distracted. I think I'd fiddle and play for far too many hours, if I was working in Unity, for example. So no full-3D for me just yet. That's another learning curve altogether. So, I'll save that for the next series. ;)

Lastly, the first person to correctly identify Nigel's badge gets a free personalised copy of Last Crown, posted from Saxton itself, along with some contraband fudge! There's no clues, and the picture is quite pixelated... but let's see what happens.

Tip: All pics go to bigger versions, when clicked.

Jonathan

'The Last Crown ' Debut Screens

2011-08-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

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Debut screenshots! It had to happen eventually, so the end of the long August Bank Holiday Weekend seems a good a time as any. I've been keeping things very close to my chest, of late, so it's great to finally let a bit of Saxton leak out, into the world. It's a bit painful, as I can't help sense there are spoilers (the bane of many producers these days) soaked into every scene. But, I can't be overly protective, 'cos that would be silly. So, here's the first set of screens from 'The Last Crown - Haunting of Hallowed Isle'. Hurrah!

This shot is new, as you can see. I wanted to freshen the place up, after The Lost Crown,meaning an extensive re-shoot of ALL locations was required. I wanted a higher resolution too, to get more detail on screen. So, it gave me a chance to seek out some lesser known corners, while also begging for new angles. The only way to photograph Polperro (Saxton's real-life double), is to get very high or very low. So, talking people into letting me into their bedrooms and attics has been an experience and a half. Well worth it though.

I really like this new Saxton Harbour shot as the place now feels 'right'. It is geographically more accurate, and easier to place in the game world. In other words, you can see more places and how they connect to the harbour. It was a tricky shot to get, leaning out of the upper window of The Blue Peter pub. But, it's the only way to get less familiar views of somewhere that has been painted and photographed thousands of times.

Map: The map is also going to be handy. As an adventure gamer I have a fondness for in-game maps. They are jolly useful, both to the gamer, and the creator. Lots of the gameplay in The Last Crown is non-linear and Quest based, so the map will act as a handy record of what you are doing, why you are doing it and what effect it will have on the gameplay.

The GhostGadget: This is also new. Instead of lumbering around with an E.M.F Meter, Nite-Vision Camcorder, Dictaphone and Digital Camera… phew… we now need only the Hadden GhostGadget. It's an 'all-in-wonder' device, which covers all the basics, as well as offering customisation and upgrading.

Customisation: This is something I wanted to do in the first game, but couldn't quite get my head around it. Not enough, anyway. But, I've now had plenty of time to think and plan, and create some interesting ideas.

For example, the basic lens on the GhostGadget is good for newbies. If you want to photograph a blurry grey figure, looking all ethereal and strange, the basic lens would be fine. But, Lucy is more practical than Nigel, so knows certain improvements could be made, or at least attempted. In his workshop, Bob Tawny is on hand, for the fiddly stuff, so it's up to you to find, install and use any upgrades you find or make.

My favourite is the Fire Lens. It is made from a shard of glass, taken from the burnt ruins of the School House. Placed on the GhostGadget, the Fire Lens allows the ghost-hunters to 'see' and hear the fire, from many years ago. With the inferno comes the 'voices'. Not ghosts as such, but 'echoes' of a past event. It's as if the event is burnt into the glass. Filming through the lens will reveal far more than you thought possible. After all these years, you may be about to solve another of Saxton's mysteries. That being, who burnt down the school?

Obviously, once acquired, the Fire Lens can be used elsewhere. There are quite a few different lenses, but trying them out is intuitive and rewarding. You are looking to get good scores for your ghost-hunting, and move on to bigger things. But, if you just want to dabble for a while, and capture some more creepy wispy shapes, that's fine too. You'll just take longer to get on to those 'bigger things'. It's all about pace, I suppose. I like the idea of gamers having their own experience, in their own time and style. It's tricky to write, but I'm quite happy with the technicalities. We're not talking a full-on RPG here, just the opportunity to bend the narrative while approaching situations in your own way. (As for the walkthroughs! It'll be a fun one to write, promise.)

Lastly… I am relieved to confirm that, after an agonising wait, there is a third 'Crown' game in production. Following the 'Lost Crown' is 'The Last Crown', then the final instalment, currently titled 'The First Crown'. Eccentric titling aside (!!), there is a logic to the series, which investigates the three Anglo-Saxon noblemen, who arrived on Saxton Shore, many, many centuries ago. Ganwulf, Pendraed and their father, Auldwulf. We met Ganwulf in game one, (we returned his Crown after stealing it!), next up we shall be meeting his brother, Pendraed. He's a darker character, much darker.

If Ganwulf was the spirit of the landscape, Pendraed is very much the spirit of the sea. This is why we are travelling over to Hallowed Isle, to seek out its ghosts, history and myths. The Last Crown definitely has a sea-faring queasy feel, as Nigel and Lucy attempt to steer a small fishing boat out to the island. It's fun, spooky, traditional fare, with plenty of Nigel's adored and hated 'DanversSpeak ™'. (Note, you will be able to skip lines this time!)

I'm really excited about making more games, as I feel it's what I've always wanted to do. Who knows, maybe after game three Nigel and Lucy will be taking assignments further afield? I'd love to trace the route of the Crowns, back through history, to the Saxons. Or, follow the Ager link out to the colonies, where the family line still continues (not good looking babies, that's for sure, and what's with the scythes!). Or, take a smuggling adventure with Spivey, Saxton's famous 'Seadog'. Plenty of ideas. Basically, there's plenty of flesh on the bone, given The Lost Crown was quite a lengthy game, so it'll be lovely to explore all the nooks and crannies that it presented.

The world of Saxton, with its folky atmosphere and ghost stories is really addictive to write! It's a pleasure to be able to create these little interactive films, continuing my love for adventure games, so expect plenty more from me. Maybe a bit faster too!

Jonathan

P.s. Large BitMap screenshots are available here, along with some text about the images: http://www.thelastcrown.com/lastcrownpress.zip

The Last Crown - Explores Psychometry & The Detective.

2011-01-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

A new year! Brand, spanking new. Hurrah!

With a New Year comes a few updates, changes and announcements. So, without further ado, here's the news, from me and Darkling Room.

I've launched a proper mini-site for The Last Crown - Haunting of Hallowed Isle, in anticipation of an Easter release, this year. Sorry for disappointing, in 2010. Pretty much everyone knows how release dates get moved around; put back, shunted about, abused, ignored, tortured, rubbished….but, the games do appear on store shelves. Sooner, rather than later…I hope.

In the meantime, I've created a mini-adventure to explore the world of…

But, what is Psychometry? How does it work? And…is it a load of old cobblers?

What is Psychometry? - Psychometry, also known as token-object reading, is a form of extra-sensory perception characterised by the claimed ability to make relevant associations from an object of unknown history by making physical contact with that object. Supporters assert that an object may have an energy field that transfers knowledge regarding that object's history. (Wikipedia)

Basically, you sense 'things' from objects.

How does Psychometry work? - Well, like all funky psychic stuff, it's rather 'out there', in terms of scientific explanations, but bear with. Psychometry is the practise of 'reading' the energy fields, stored (or trapped) within an inanimate object. Some claim you can 'see' or feel the history of the object, aspects of previous owners and glimpses into the world in which it has travelled. Exciting stuff! Some of you have, no doubt, seen some Psychometry on the ghost-hunting and 'unsolved crime' shows. Usually, an object is handed to a medium, with no prior knowledge of the object.

Their task is to pick up on any residual energy left over from previous owners. Weapons, photos, jewellery and personal items often make good objects; they carry more energy, or the medium can invent a better story. Either way, I find it all very interesting, as I've dabbled a bit in this field, allowing me to see some surprisingly good results. I'm not saying I am a 100% percent, paid-up member of the Psychometry Gang (they wouldn't have me!), but I do believe in the power of the mind, to decypher clues and make connections. I think of those skills as detective work, rather than anything supernatural… but, we should not ignore our instincts. Perhaps they tell us far more than we would think? Basically, take it seriously, and you may be surprised.

Psychometry and The Last Crown - Nigel and Lucy are a team, a good team, with Nanny Noah as ghost-hunting advisor (boss!). But, they do like to do things differently. Nigel thinks, and has been told, that he has 'The Gift'. He's psychic! Nanny Noah is helping Nigel reach his full potential, as she knows her powers alone will not be enough to stop the on-coming darkness.

We've seen, in the previous game, that Nigel can 'time-jump'; pass from one time to another, in the blink of an eye. He is a time sensitive, which means he sees things differently from everyone else. Peoples and places from the past merge with the world of 'now', which Nigel is able to 'see' and explore. Objects are no different. With a little effort and focus, Nigel can see many layers of activity and history which others may not.

Lucy, on the otherhand, is more practically inclined. She's a detective. She likes rational, logical explanations as to 'why things happen'. It's not that she doesn't believe in strange forces, but she'd rather exhaust the obvious first, before jumping on the paranormal band-wagon (what a ride!). Instead, Lucy will spend her time, with the object, studying the details left behind by previous owners. Scuffs, wear and tear, dirt, blood, grime…etc etc. There are plenty of tell-tale signs and clues, if you look hard enough.

Together, Nigel and Lucy make a formidable force! But, will it be enough, for Nanny Noah? It seems not. She is planning on hosting many more Psychic Detection Evenings, at The Bear Inn, on Saxton Harbour. It's certainly a great setting for paranormal nights, when Morgan Mankle isn't fussing about the place (she's rather busy of late, with her book!). The first session has already come and gone, (you missed it!), but there are further sessions planned for the coming months. Nanny Noah is looking for new recruits, so you could stand a good chance, if you 'read' the objects correctly.

Tip: Some objects are employed as 'Testers'; Nanny Noah already knows a bit about those objects, so will be looking for you to help corroborate her findings. But, what she doesn't know is the fact that ALL objects have a story, no matter how old, new or obscure. Perhaps your powers, whether they are Psychic or Detective, will provide clues unknown to Saxton's much-loved wicca? Give it a go.

There's also the chance to get some hefty hints as to the nature of the next story!

Jonathan

P.s. Happy New Year! It's going to be a good one for Darkling Room, after a year of legal cases against previous publishers; Got Game Entertainment & Mamba Games, Lace Mamba and Lace Mamba Global, (plenty of different company names to keep the opposing lawyers going in circles). But, who cares about greedy men, in bad suits, when I create games for a living? Best job in the world. Time to make some adventures!

Here's to 2011...!!!

Halloween 2010 - Filming 'Blair Witch' Style Teaser Trailers

2010-10-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

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Halloween - Filming 'Blair Witch' Style Teaser Trailers

"There's many things, dangerous things, out there, on the moor. Don't disrespect the land, and you should be alright" - Advice from a moorland farmer, at night, on Bodmin Moor.

"Something a bit different, maybe live action" was the request, from Shadow Tor Studios, when discussing ideas for the Bracken Tor teaser trailers. Hurrah! Different is exciting. So is taking part on a live action shoot. The usual gameplay videos and screenshots would promote the new adventure, upon release, but 'something a bit different' would break the mould a little, and certainly be exciting to make. Filming, after dark, out on the moor, Blair Witch style! Here's the story…

The Plan - To film three teaser trailers for the new supernatural thriller Bracken Tor - The Time of Tooth and Claw. Each teaser would follow a particular character, on the night of the Winter Solstice -

The Hiker - A un-named man has lost his way, while trying to cross the moor. The plan was to find the ancient burial chamber, hidden beneath Bracken Tor. He had been told, many times, by local people not to attempt such a foolhardy mission, but he chose to ignore the warnings. The Hiker is not all he seems; he knows more about the Tor than he has let on. He believes he can gain access to the tomb, to rob the place of its treasures. Something he will soon regret.

The DJ - DJ Emma Harry is a kooky kind of girl. Living and broadcasting from the swamps of Barrow Moor, Emma has a deep fascination (obsession!) with the supernatural and strange. Something happened to Emma, back in '06. She experienced something bizarre…something ancient and powerful. The event changed her. She knows that the landscape hides all manner of strange phenomena, writing about much of it in her magazine, the Freaky Times. But, will Emma's fascination be her undoing?

The Archaeologist - Agatha Dunn-Harker was the only person to attempt an archaeological excavation at Bracken Tor, I say 'was' because she disappeared on the Winter Solstice, back in 1965. Broadcasting live on the BBC, Agatha was about to open the heavy stone door when the radio signal was lost, and she was never seen again. But, someone has never given up on Agatha, believing that her fate may still be learnt, if they dig deeper, and uncover the truth.

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The Shoot - A diary of spooky events.

21:00 - Lost, cold, and worried! The moor is up to its usual tricks again. No matter how much we'd planned, and no matter how many maps we've bought, the moor still manages to confuse the hell out of our driver, leaving us stranded in a tiny one-way lane, leading further and further into darkness. Driving slowly, very slowly, across the moor is an eerie experience. The land seems endless, desolate and moody. The minibus headlights occasionally pick out glowing eyes, in the darkness. There are wild ponies on the moor, as well as some hardy breeds of sheep. We have to take great care, orientating these ancient tracks, for fear of hitting something huge, heavy and wild.

21:15 - Something dashes across the road. Something big, and fast. A deer? The atmosphere on the bus has turned chilly. The cast, including myself, have stopped wittering on about the script, and the night ahead. We have all gone rather quiet. I am wondering if this nocturnal adventure is such a good idea? There really are abandoned old mines, scarring the moor. Some are hundreds of years old, from when Cornish Tin was in great demand. Even biblical characters, such as Jospeh of Arimathea, are said to have ventured onto the moor.

"According to legend, Joseph of Arimathea had a financial stake in the Cornish tin mines, and may even have taken his nephew Jesus there on his merchant travels during the boyhood of Jesus. However, after the crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea traveled to Britain one last time, to preach and even settle." - http://www.interfaith.org/articles/joseph_of_arimathea.php

I wonder what Jesus made of the moor?

21:30 - Still lost! This is getting ridiculous. Lorna, our sound recordist, suggests we may be going round in circles. Great! Personally, I think she's mistaking one gorse bush for another…until…"Look! Even the road signs are lost!" she points out. We've stopped to take a photo of the bonkers looking sign, when we hear something call out, from across the landscape.

It sounds like an animal, something large like a horse; a sad baying cry, which seems to fill the air with dread. I am reminded of that scene, in The Hound of the Baskervilles, when Stapleton describes the Grimpen Mire -

-------- / From The Hound of the Baskervilles / --------

“That is the great Grimpen Mire,” said he. “A false step yonder means death to man or beast. Only yesterday I saw one of the moor ponies wander into it. He never came out. I saw his head for quite a long time craning out of the bog-hole, but it sucked him down at last."

Something brown was rolling and tossing among the green sedges. Then a long, agonized, writhing neck shot upward and a dreadful cry echoed over the moor. It turned me cold with horror, but my companion’s nerves seemed to be stronger than mine. “It’s gone!” said he. “The mire has him.”

-------- / End / --------

21:45 - A man! A farmer, is standing in the middle of the lane. It's impossible to pass him, without forcing him from the road, so Steve (our driver, and lead member of the MBRG) leaves the vehicle and approaches the man. A short exchange of words follows, and then we are off again. The farmer seems to glare at us, as we pass. "He says we'll come out by Minions on this route" says Steve, "Which is perfect for parking and getting the scenes we want".

Hurrah! What a nice old farmer. He's not an evil, cannibalistic moor-beast.

"He says the pub is still open too" continues Steve, "if anyone needs a bit of actors courage". I do actually fancy a gin, to get ready for the shoot, but we all agree it could be a bit like that pub in An American Werewolf in London. You know the one, the two hikers enter The Slaughtered Lamb. The 'locals' all go quiet, and stare. Eventually the two hiking buddies leave… to get ravaged on the moor, by a werebeast. Cripes! I am playing the character called The Hiker. Is this trip such a good idea? When does excitement turn into tension?

22:00 - Filming, at last! We have split into two units. My group, Unit A, will be filming The Hiker, and recording the vocals for that film, and The DJ. The other team (Unit B) is setting up a very Blair-Witchy scene in a nearby pine woods. I don't envy them. Matt has made some seriously cool looking twig effigies, to hang in the braches and look pretty damn spooky. The props looked quite harmless, even comical, back at base…but now…? They seem pagan, powerful and full of meaning. I begin to suspect our activities may stir up some genuine chills.

22:15 - I've fallen down a hole. Just as I realised that my foot was not meeting the expected turf (like missing that last step on the stairs) I thought about the mine shafts. A fall down one of those dark pits would mean certain death. Thankfully, my pit is only half a metre deep, so no broken bones…just a muddy, and sore bottom! The event has left me shaken, so my film footage should be genuinely wobbly. Just what we need!

22:30 - It's time to film the sequence. The plan is to leave the open moor, and enter a small copse, or woodland. We can see one, not too far away from the standing stones, known as The Hurlers. It's not as dark, or as dense as we would have liked, but the twisted branches should look cool, in the glow of the night-vision. I'll be doing this on my own, so that none of the crew gets in shot. A rough path leads through the copse, which I'll try to follow as best as possible. I don't really want to get lost on the moor. The crew hang back, as I prepare to venture in.

Silence. Ok. Lens cap off. Power on. Film is running. Let's go.
Suddenly the world is green tinted, and uncanny. Shapes loom up out of the darkness, twisted and covered in lichen. It looks more like a swamp! It's actually surprisingly weird. Night-vision is supposed to aid nocturnal sight, but I think it does the opposite. You can only see a small square in front of you, bright and green. It's quite blinding. It also means my natural night sight, which had adjusted in the gloom, has been ruined. I can't see a bloody thing!

22:40 Approx - I do genuinely feel quite lost. I call out, quietly, to the others to make sure they are still there. Knowing that others are around you, close but out of sight, is quite unnerving. There's no reply, so I carry on my journey. I seem to be approaching a water source, like a stream or spring. That means the land could be quite boggy. My mind returns to the Grimpen Mire, and that poor moorland pony. The agonized, dreadful cry….

…what the hell am I doing? I am really quite spooked. That's when I heard the scream!

23:00 - Whadda girl! Unit B have just recoded our scream queen, in her last dying moments. It's a really strange thing to hear. The sound echoes across the landscape, for miles, and miles, and miles. I wonder if the moorland farmer heard it? He could call the police! We could get into trouble. Imagine explaining what we are up to; making a film about the Beast of Barrow Moor, a fictitious (I hope!) creature that stalks lonely walkers, and rips cattle to shreds. I think we would be asked to leave, go home, and stop playing silly games. Silly?! It's downright frightening. So, maybe the presence of the police may not be such a bad thing. A bit of security. Oh shush, Jonathan! This was your idea. Just get the footage you need, and get out of this god forsaken place.

23:15 - It's time for the monster. Yup, we have a monster. All claws, teeth and feral eyes. During the day these things look quite…errr…daft, if I am honest. You're painting away, sticking on bits of gunk and ragged hair, chatting away and not really giving the night shoot that much thought. Silly us. In the dark, the mask and other props feel really horrible. The long hair is especially weird. Lank, dark and a bit Samara-like (The Ring movies). I won't say who is playing The Monster, as it might destroy the illusion. But, let me say that it's only right HE should don this costume, given that its HIS game. Ha! Once finished, we'll be filming the monster amongst the trees. I am hoping for some scenes like those from the Warning to the Curious movie, from the 1970's. The ghost of William Ager is glimpsed, briefly, in certain woodland scenes, his white face barely visible in the gloom. If I capture some footage as good as those old BBC scenes, I will be a very happy man!

23:30 - The Teeth. It's close-up time for The Monster, as we prepare to film the fangs of our feral creature. The moor is still adding a wonderful hushed atmosphere to the proceedings, as Unit B rejoin us. They are more than pleased with the twig sculptures, filmed in the pine woods. Lorna tells me that she felt quite spiritual, in a wiccan kind of way, whilst hanging the effigies on the twigs. I never had Lorna down as a wiccan, but perhaps this night on the moor will change us all, in some specific way. I, for one, am having a brilliant time.

The nerves have subsided a little, and things feel really fun, and genuinely interesting.

Midnight - We're all done. Matt pops the cork on a bottle of cheep, but cheerful, Cava, and we all get a bit tiddly. All except Steve, who's driving. Much is said about how the 'real' moorland setting has influenced tonight's work. It's been great to really utilise this fabulous place. You could say it's the biggest star…sorry Monster!...acting like some sort of muse. I just hope our hard work comes across, and feels fun to those watching the films, whenever they are published.

If you can travel to the moor, whether it be Dartmoor, Bodmin or Yorkshire, I highly recommend the experience. You get a sense of smallness and frailty in places like these. The timeless quality is uncanny, unnerving and humbling. Like a few months ago, doing the Beast Hunt Night, I found myself wondering what sort of energies, or spirits, could wander these places? Could unexplainable creatures, or beasts, really be out there, in the darkness?

As Bracken Tor finally gears up for its big release, I must thank the moor for being such a cool setting. Matt Clark has always had a fascination with this place, visiting it many times since childhood. I love The Hound of the Baskervilles, and other gothic tales, but have never really ventured out to discover a more personal experience. Bracken Tor has provided an opportunity to 'get out there', with a purpose, and soak up some of the atmosphere. And, what an atmosphere it is!

Just in time for Halloween, I thought I'd share this magazine cover with you all.

Click to enlarge the picture.

It's something I put together a few days ago. It's The Freaky Times (a little nod to The Fortean Times), which features in the game. DJ Emma Harry is the editor, inviting strange stories from all over the world. In December, The Beast of Barrow Moor is the cover star, hinting at what sort of 'creature' lurks on the Barrow Moor. But, check out some of the side stories too, for clues about the up-coming game. The Legend of the Green Man? Bracken Tor Cult? The Dark Path? Hmm, that all sound very interesting.

Moor (sic) soon.

Jonathan

P.s. If any of this blog entry has got you interested in the moor, check out this website for some cool pics of standing stones, old farmhouses and ancient burial sites. http://www.oliverscornwall.co.uk/bodminmoor.html

Beasts, bugs and Bracken Tor…

2010-07-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

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It seems like an age since I last scribbled a blog, so without further ado…

Beasts - The Mysterious Beasts Research Group (based on Bodmin Moor!), invited some of us disbelievers and sceptics along to a 'tracking night', two evenings ago. The idea was to camp out, in the woods near Golitha Falls, to experience what the group get up to in an evening. The woods flank one edge, the wilder side, of the famous Bodmin Moor (Jamaica Inn, 'Beast of Bodmin Moor' and of course, Matilda Fly's very own 'Two Faced-Bride of Bodmin Moor'). For more pics, try this Google search: Bodmin Moor.

The Moor - It's an ancient place, of whispering reeds and weather beaten trees, all shaped by the weather, history and personality of the place. But, it wasn't always like that. The moor is actually a man-made environment, shaped over thousands of years; there was once a wild, dense and dark forest, where old mine buildings now stand, naked to the elements. Think 'Fangorn Forest' from The Lord of the Rings, and you'll get a decent picture of what it must have looked like. The ancient people cut down the trees, to build the many villages and towns which still haunt the moorland world, as ghosts on aerial photography.

Their way of life, and knowledge of the ancient natural world, is as mysterious as the moor itself. Those unknown times were a turning point, in history, when man decided to utilise the forest, rather than revere it. Obviously, this is one of the themes explored in Barrow Hill, and it's sequel 'Bracken Tor', so the 'Beast Night' would prove to be great research for that particular project.

The Experiment - As most of you know, I am more of a 'ghosts' person myself, so haven't really delved into the legends of mysterious beasts, crypto-zoology and unexplained animal sightings. For every 'Black Dog of the Moor', there's a Nessie (Loch Ness Monster) sighting. I'll be honest, they never seem to impress me, or prove anything, apart from our desire to believe in such wonders. So, a chance to hang out, in the landscape, with those that state, without doubt, that such creatures exist was a chance not to be missed. Matt Clark, writer and creator of Barrow Hill provided my invite, so I expected to be set-up, and hoaxed…just a little. But, fact is, it was spooky enough, without the pranks and teasing. The ancient forest may be gone, but the earth itself is still rich with the rotting matter, roots and fossilised remains of that once leafy world. I found it strange, to think that I would be sleeping on the graves of such natural antiquity; basically, could the moor be haunted by a landscape long since gone? Could the animals, that once roamed that forest (lions, tigers, bears…oh my!), still enter our world, like spirit animals, unaware that their habitat is no more. A spooky, and melancholy, notion.

The Night - Steve, leader of the pack, is a huge beast of a man himself, and knows pretty much all there is to know about animal tracks, fur, gnawed bones and…of course, everyone's favourite…poo! He is one of those experts, like you see on natural history shows, that tracks animals by scent, snapped twigs and the occasional bit of disturbed leafage. It's a very impressive talent, which reminded me of that uncanny sense the aboriginal tribes of Australia share, where they seem spititually attached to the world they inhabit. I am envious of that kind of skill, to be honest. Spending time with those folks, in the wild, reminds you how domesticated and uninvolved you are, in the natural world. (Note: But, I also love my PS3 and microwave oven, so I'm not going native anytime soon!). But, tonight was the night to get back to nature, stare into the darkness, and see if anything was staring back. Would those eyes be physical or supernatural?

As well as Steve, we were joined by Cath and three members of the MBRG. Cath is a woman after my own heart - a technical whiz, with a love of gadgets, a brave heart and some seriously impressive walking boots (ex-Army clompers). She came armed with laser trip wires, camera traps, night-vision and all sorts of monitoring equipment. Both she and I would be based in the lower woods, well away from the moorland edge, so our human smells would not disturb any wild beasts prowling the open landscape. Exciting! Steve, Matt, and the other members, were taking the upper ridge, closer to the moor, and closer to the action. There are reports of animal carcasses, stripped trees and dung heaps in that area. So, if these beasts really exist, THIS area is likely to be the feeding ground.

So, as you can imagine, I was feeling a bit weirded out by the idea of attending a 'Beast Hunt'. As a fearful fan of The Blair Witch Project, I couldn't help feel the night was going to be quite an experience. It was! Here's the event, as it happened…

21:00 - Just enough light to set up my tent. I've been 'told off' for not having a cammo-fabric version, army style. So, I have to set up in the bracken. It's itchy and full of bugs. I have a signal, yay, so have sent off a few messages to Facebook. I thought it would be reassuring, but instead, my so-called 'freinds' laughed about how they'll find my 'shredded body, and piece it back together' as some sort of gory adventure slider puzzle. Thanks!

21:30 - Mozzies. Damn critters. The woods are really buzzing with insects, and the heat is intense. A Cornish woodland can take on a really tropical feel, in these conditions. It's not exactly Borneo, I know!, but I'm finding the place very dark, hot and alive.

22:00 - I got to see some (blurry or distant) images of beast sightings, from the MBRG scrapbook. Some may have seen this kind of thing, in your local press, where dog walkers, ramblers and other everyday folk, have seen large predators stalking through their neighbourhood. It's pointed out, that many of these sightings are made by those with no previous interest in the phenomena. Interesting.

22:45 - Monitors! I love a bit of surveillance activity, and this is great. I'm used to staring at domestic interiors, on screens throughout the night, as part of the ghost-hunting activities, so this natural world makes a lovely change. Plus, there's loads to see. The woods are alive with mice, rabbits, foxes and badgers, all using the well trodden animal paths. These paths look like nothing during the day (a muddy patch here, a few bits of fur on a bramble there), but operate as a wildlife superhighway by night.

23:00 - I've heard from Matt and Steve, who say that conditions were good for a sighting. The night is gloomy, with the moon hidden behind cloud, but the weather is good (hot!), and very still. The woods, too, are very still. The last of the birds have settled in, for the night, and the trees watch us silently, barely a branch moving. The sound, though, is bizarre; crickets, weevils, mosquitoes and marshflies fill the air. I've stopped thinking about the Blair Witch, and started thinking about Predator instead! Perhaps I am not as good a 'nature' person as I previously thought.

00:30 - Crying! There is a baby crying, somewhere in the woods! A frightening, and bizarre experience. "Who, or why, would anyone have a baby out here, in the witching hour?"…damn, she's back! The Blair Witch is back in my head. Babies, witches, woodlands, druids, blood sacrifice…argh! Stop, stop, stop! Thankfully, Cath is on hand to give me ~~a good slap~~ a reassuring perspective. Young deer, I am told, make such noises. It's the right time of year for fawns to be calling to their parents, and 'yes', it does sound very human. I am not convinced, so my anxiety is increasing. What if Cath is wrong?! I still wonder if some of the 'beast sightings' are supernatural?

00:35 - Matt and Steve have reported in. They can also hear the sounds, which they describe as 'mewing'. Hmm, sorry but 'mewing' does not sound like a baby crying. Hmmpff. But, the MBRG do this kind of thing, "all of the time", all over the country (weirdos!). I still regret leaving the ghost-hunting gadgets at home. Steve also thinks the deer may bring the 'beast' closer to our corner of the moor. Oh goody.

00:40 - The group have gathered together, away from the moorland edge. Everything is set up, and we're ready to go. Hopefully, one of our cams will capture something amazing. Atmosphere in the camp is brilliant. I've felt this sort of buzz, before, on the larger ghost-hunts, but the woodland setting feels really intense, and new. The owls are calling, across the landscape, and it really feels like something was about to happen…

01:00 - I hear about Matt's trip to the top, and what they saw on the ridge. There are a lot of deer mingling with the moorland ponies. It sounds like a lovely scene, but I can't help think it sounds like a safari. The wild plains of Cornwall, waiting for a bloody natural drama to begin. The hunt! Many farmers, in these parts, are insisting that a beast does indeed stalk the moors, killing many young lambs, for their dinner. Seriously! It dents their profits to such an extent that huge government offices, like DEFRA, have called upon folks like the MBRG, to investigate areas like the moor, to prove, one way or the other, whether this is a real, and serious, issue. Hmm, that could account for the MBRG's budget!

02:30 - Definitely deer! They are gorgeous. I've seen these lovelies many times, while I've been in Cornwall, but it's always a fleeting glimpse, caught in the car headlights…and then GONE. But, there they are, hopping over the woodland boundaries (a good metre and a half of bracken and gorse bushes), and into the woods…with us. They are so agile, and graceful, and…SPOOKED.

02:50 - The deer have legged it. They entered the woods, to get off the moor. We are now totally convinced that something is tracking their scent. I am still wondering what we'll see. Obviously, a massive black panther would be cool, but it would be so, damn physical! What if the deer were spooked by something unknown to us, but visible to these nocturnal creatures? Ghosts of the wild?

03:00 - Badgers! Awww, bless 'em. They really know how to make you feel more comfortable. Bumbling, daft things. They are digging in amongst the roots and trees stumps, eating worms and bugs. They don't seem particularly spooked, so I am also feeling much more relaxed. A bit of fatigue is also creeping in, so I'm taking my weary self off to the tent, to have a nap.

05:00 - Damp, tired and aching. Boo hoo. The plan is to be on the ridge for the dawn, (now!), as it's a favourite hunting time, supposedly. The early morning light is enough to see by, so I'm shocked at the mess inside my tent. I live like a pig, in the dark!

05:30 - I have been shown some of the oddments and weird things that Steve and Matt found last night. The bones are a bit creepy, and the poo pile is just wrong! Badgers have been marking their territory, against rival badger clans…and maybe something more. Hmm. Also, there's loads of evidence; scratched trees, claw marked earth and animal tracks. These are the best! Really big paw prints, in the mud. There's also some copperish coloured fur on the barbwire. I wonder if it's a fox, but the strands are very short, and thick. More like bristles...

06:00 - It's a lovely morning. Any thought's and fears about Blair Witches, Wererabbits and Predators have gone. Gone back to the dark corners of the imagination. I've survived the night, seen some brilliant things, and got a real buzz from the experience. But…any beasts? Not as yet. The MBRG have several hours worth of recordings to get through, so we will have to wait. For now, this is Jonathan Boakes, one of the last remaining crew of Alpha Camp, signing off…and going to sleep.

ZZZZZzzzzzzz.....

END

Afterthoughts - Certainly an interesting night, that really inspires some good adventure game scenes. Matt Clark and I are now busy putting finishing touches to Barrow Hill 2 (Bracken Tor), with gusto. It feels like the game has taken an age to reach this stage, but this is what happens when one has to spend half the year tracking down misbehaving publishers, and take them to court. It can really put you off making games altogether. Which is the sad thing. But, with the right attitude, and hope for the future, it is still possible to make adventures and not have a miserable time. It is the game itself that is important, and the experience you have making it.

That bizarre night on the moors was just the ticket to get that good attitude flowing again. Things feel positive. It's a blast making games, and entertaining people with our mad little stories, so no-one, no matter how bent or deluded, can dent that. Games may be late, and mine will be later yet again!, but we DO get there eventually. I'm now working on Barrow Hill 2 - Bracken Tor with Shadow Tor Studios (thanks Matt!), so expect to spot some of my usual bits and bobs, here and there. It's really cool to work on a non-ghost game, and focus on archaeology and the ancient landscape. It's a creepy interest, shared by all involved, which is bound to create a good ol'yarn and enjoyable puzzle-driven adventure game.

Bracken Tor & The Moor - The landscape of Bodmin really is a spooky place, deep in legend and rich with folklore. The idea of combining the ancient people, stone circles, druidism and our modern times is a delicious one. The game, like the first one, explores how we (the modern folk) approach these dark places and rituals, and how the sites appear to us today. Those eerie monoliths, out on the moor, weren't always jutting from the naked peat, like Stoneage gravestones…no, they were once surrounded by deep forests of rowan, oak and pine. The Bronze Age people conducted ceremonies and rites, at these locations, which Matt can only hint at in his screenplay.

What Bracken Tor provides, and this really is exciting, is time travel! Both you and I can travel back and forth between the two time lines. Ancient and modern, then and now. We will discover what the ancient stones signified; we will learn their real purpose, and the role they played in those olden times. What bizarre acts took place, amongst the stones and trees?

In a way, I am glad that I didn't dwell on these matters, too much, while camped out 'there' on the Tor. Big, fierce wild cats are one thing, but the habits and ceremonies of those early civilisations really chill me to the bone. TV archaeology likes to paint a rosy image of those times, to educate and inform, but there WAS blood, sacrifice and devout pagan belief. It was a period of fear, and reverence, and horror...

...It was the time of Tooth and Claw.

Jonathan

Big Apple & Japanese Dumplings

2010-05-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

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Big Apple with a side of Japanese Dumplings

Phew! It's hot in the city, and absolutely brilliant. Like any big city, it is impossible to see everything, you'd need to, in one weekend...but I'm trying!

So far, the adventure has been a naughty mix of total food indulgence,and clubbing till dawn; 90's hard house, in the gloriously named 'Meat Packing District'. Oh, and I took a peek at Times Square, Broadway and hid from the sun in Greenwich Village. All super.

Broadway was quite a surpise, actually. It has managed to retain a noirish 30's feel that felt very timeless. Christopher Walken and Lucy Liu were getting huge cheers, as they left thier respective shows...(no sneaking out of the rear stage door in this town!)

The scene was also enhancedby the pressence of the service personel (army, navy), who were gearing up for the Memorial Day weekend. They looked very fine, in thier uniforms and bright White caps, and managed to look very dignified, even after a few beers in the nearby Irish pubs.

As for today, it was an early start again, with iced tea in Madison Square Gardens. Very pleasant, and very cool. It's been scorchio the whole time I have been here, so that foggy afternoon in Looe seems a million miles away, and an absolute age ago. But, deep down I know those ancient, barnacle encrusted rocks are waiting for me...

...and Nigel.

So, thank you NY! And thank you USA, for making my time here so interesting, unforgetable, and gloriously different. I am ready to get to work now, the past is the past, and I am ready to look forward to the future. My trip here may have been for stressful reasons, but the outcome was good, and things look much brighter. Get me to a cab, I have a sequel to make!

Jonathan

P.s. Apologies for the quality of the photos, iPhone as 'camera' not so good!

Lost in the Fog; Where has everybody gone…?

2010-05-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

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I am off to the USA THIS weekend!

This is something I have been looking forward to my entire life, so it’s making me feel dizzy and thrilled all at the same time. It’s a shame my trip is to settle a legal case, but I will get to look around New York for a while, so I’m ready for anything.

If there’s anybody out there, in New York or Connecticut, that fancies hooking up and having a beer, please DO write and let me know. Right here, on the blog is the best place to contact me, as I won’t have email access as such. Quite honestly, I would really like to meet some people, so spread the word to those who don’t dig through the blogs! There must be someone who fancies a natter?

Without some local knowledge it’s likely I’ll just sit in the Holiday Inn, and stare out of the window in absolute terror at the bustling world outside. I’ve seen so many corners and sights of the USA, on TV and in film, it will be a truly mind-blowing experience; I’ll probably think I’m playing some sort of Big Apple adventure game, and refuse the evidence of my own eyes. (It’s Real, it’s real!! I wonder if there really is a ziggurat under Central Park?). What a sad case. But, it does make me realise how many of the US fans feel about good ‘ol blighty, sometimes. I imagine it must be a similar, if smaller, thrill seeing old, well known British landmarks, and visiting locales often imagined from books, music and games. A special relationship, indeed!

So, if you are nearby on Tuesday May 25th to Monday the 31st, please do let me know, as I would love to meet some genuine Americans! Oh yes!

Cornwall is a strange place to be, these days, with scarily schizophrenic weather; I was out with the camera, earlier this afternoon, to photograph The Pinnacles, at one end of Looe beach. It’s foggy, eerie, quiet and deserted around these parts. Yet, I still have bright red sunburn from yesterday’s sunny scorcher! What’s going on? I suspect something supernatural is afoot. The tourists must still be here, somewhere, yet I saw no evidence of them. Perhaps they are holed up in the B&B’s, watching re-runs of Murder She Wrote…

I have been struggling with some of the characters, for The Last Crown, these last few weeks. I’ve been distracted by legal paperwork, most of the time, so it’s not too surprising that my fisherfolk struggled to make it onto paper in a satisfying, and naturalistic way. Everything else is fine, but the locals just felt, and sounded really odd. As I reach the end of the screenplay (yay!) I worried that Saxton was becoming too dark, too surreal and…dare I say it…too Monty Python. So, today’s weather, and the unsettling atmosphere have been wonderful. I am too stupid, sometimes, to realise that I have the best source of inspiration right on my doorstep. So, with camera in hand, I took to the beach and streets to capture some moody, melancholy scenes. This page is dotted with a few of them, but do click one of the images to see more of Looe’s Moody Blues.

Where has everybody gone…

The beach was packed, yesterday afternoon. I had a black cherry ice cream from the seafront, and watched as tourists and locals splashed around in the crystal clear waters, and created sand castles that put my humble home to shame! (“Hey, that sand castle has a second bedroom!”) But today, there’s no sign, nor sound, of anyone… at all. It’s a perfect time to go and wander around one of my favourite TLC locations, The Pinnacles. They are back in game 2, but not quite as you’d expect them. The tide comes in, drowning that crustated world, hiding it from us. Lucy and Nigel will have to do a few quests for Old Moby, the fisherman, before they can navigate those treacherous waters. Moby is a lobster pot man, so he knows those old rocks like the back of his hand. I’ll add that Old Moby’s hand may also have a few barnacles, and limpets, living between his fingers and on the back of his wrinkly old palms.

He’s going to be quite a character, and is based, in some ways, on ‘Dave the Looe Ferryman’; who I watched disappearing out into the fog earlier today. I should add that Dave is not covered in crustations, nor is he wrinkly, and makes quite a dashing ferry and fisherman! But, watching the small boat drift silently out to sea, alongside the Banjo Pier, was really quite eerie. Fog has a way of messing with your senses, so everything takes on a slightly dreamy, no time/no place, kind of atmosphere.

I did see several figures while out wandering, but for the most part I was alone in the ‘real’ Saxton, with only my thoughts and plans. I have to admit to feeling rather melancholy these days, as the pressures of my US trip creep nearer and nearer. (Isn’t melancholy a lovely word?! It sounds so much nicer than ‘bloody miserable’). Ghosts of the past seem to approach, with distant, echoing voices, to offer advice and good will, but they only seemed to linger for a moment, before becoming faint, and then disappeared completely.

The moodiness left me with an increasing feeling of helpful loneliness, and isolation. Fog does that. You are alone in the few meters that surround you, where no-one can see or hear you. It was perfect time to contemplate the fisherfolk of Saxton…whose lives are dictated by the weather, water and wildlife. Old Moby kind of wrote himself, into the story, where there was once a bland fisherman stereotype, with no humanity, soul or purpose. So, I thank Looe for helping me out, once again, and providing as much food for thought as any amateur writer could ever want!

Till I arrive in new York, that is! :-)

Jonathan

Saxton: Up for sale!

2010-03-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

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After several months of mystery, the fate of Saxton’s ‘Harbour Cottage’, (home to ghost-hunter Nigel Danvers in The Lost Crown) has been revealed.

Studio Cottage, Polperro, is up for sale. For anyone that may be interested in viewing the place, I’ll mention that the interior of the cottage bears no resemblance to the fictional ‘Harbour Cottage’, (which is probably a very good thing!). Instead, it’s actually a rather tiny holiday cottage, with frilly florals and orange pine furniture; so it really couldn’t be more different to the dank, dark and rather miserable cottage, experienced by Nigel, during his adventures.

Click the image too see the 'sales' listing and interior photos.
Warning: Floral fabric and pine furniture may be seen.

I’m unsure how long the cottage will be available for, or whether the auction has come and gone, but if you’re in the area, and have a soft spot for Polperro’s most painted and photographed house, now is the time to make your move.

While wandering the streets, and photographing new scenes, for the next game (The Last Crown - Haunting of Hallowed Isle) I did notice that a LOT of Polperro is currently ‘For Sale’, which makes me fear for the future of the little harbour town. A series of wet summers, and decreased Winter visitors has seen the place suffer, both financially and spiritually. Polperro really is a ghost town, from November through to Easter, with over 50% of the houses empty, unlit and unloved.

Obviously, you have to expect this for a holiday town, but it can be rather sad, and spooky, to approach the town from the coast path (past the little lighthouse), and see barely a light on in the cottages, during those long Winter nights. Perhaps I am naïve, but there is something very sad about a town being devoid of people and life, when it was once home to hundreds of people, busily going about their lives, and tending to one of Cornwall’s most famous working harbours. Modernity sees Polperro as the quietest it has ever been.

But, on a more cheery note, I have located new places for the game; if you refer to your handy ‘Pull Out Map’, you’ll see locations such as The School House, and The Hotel, listed. They never appeared in The Lost Crown, so will be making their debut in the sequel. The site for the School House was an easy find, as somewhere quite literal sprung to mind, and will work wonders to give this new location some atmosphere and period style.

The Hotel was harder to locate. I wanted to avoid Victorian style buildings, after the horrors seen in Lost Souls. The Station Hotel is a very distinctive place, and quite hard to ‘get out of the head’ after spending a year re-creating it for the last game. So, a radical re-think was needed, and Polperro provided a suitable candidate. It’s actually a building you’ve seen before, several times, but I’ll be re-vamping the place to reflect it’s new ‘explorable’ status. Unlike The Station Hotel, this will be no ‘urban exploration’ through dank, nasty hallways; instead, it’ll all feel rather pleasant...until another murder occurs!

Jonathan

The Lost Souls - Find Awards!

2010-02-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

There have been two awards for Lost Souls, which is wonderful news! I am especially pleased to receive the ‘Best Sound Design’ this year, as I feel a lot of work, by both myself and Ben Gammons, went into making Lost Souls as detailed and disturbing as possible.

The other award was for Best First Person Adventure! An amazing accolade, given how stiff the competition was this year. A quick glance around the forums reveals how many new adventure games were released last year, (including official boxed versions in the USA, something that has so-far eluded Lost Souls). It’s wonderful to see so many big games appearing, as some factions within the press STILL state the genre is dead. Same old, same old. But, with so many new, top notch productions titles in the pipeline, I hope the genre finally proves it is far from dead.

There seem to be quite a few ‘ghost-hunting adventures’ on the horizon, which is interesting to see. It is not hard to imagine the success of The Lost Crown has generated lots of interest in paranormal games, so I will be looking out for something spooky to play over the weekend. It’ll be really fun to see what others have done with the ‘traditional’ ghost-huinting gadgets, and whether they have bought anything new to the paranormal adventure scene. I’ll play with the lights ‘on’! ;)

Also, I wanted to mention the forthcoming EU versions of Lost Souls, which are about to be announced, or appear on shelves. First up is a fully translated Italian version of the game, published by the chaps at Adventures Planet! It’s a super translation, full of character and detail, which has been checked and double-checked. Call me daft, but the Italian version sounds so much MORE creepy than the original. Perhaps it has something to do with the latin accents, or intensity of the performances, but I felt goosebumps several times when building this new version. So, Italian fans will want to look out for this one, as I think it’s going to be my best Italian game yet!

Actually, that reminds me, I had a really good ‘telling off’ this week, by an Italian adventure fan, who found the opening scenes of Lost Souls far too nasty, and ‘Silent Hill’ like. I explained that the game was written to reflect some of the recent news items, appearing down here in Cornwall, but realised there’s little or no ‘making of’ material, for the game. I hope to correct that, quite soon, as there are loads of ‘real world’ stories to post, and illustrate how ‘usual’ some of the game content actually is.

For example, Mr.Bones’ revolting eating habits are based on the ‘Bodmin Badger Eater’ (seen in a BBC doco last year), and a strange, unsolved, case that shocked the good people of Callington, also last year; otters and local pets were found, nailed to trees in the woods, where satanic imagery was also to be seen, sprayed onto trees. I will add that Callington is also the home of ‘Ginsters’, the famous pasty production company…that doesn’t bear thinking about!

Or, how about the news item that greeted my arrival in Cornwall; ‘Warlock Beheaded by Cult’. Seriously. This guy had a small coven, who turned on him after he ‘placed hexes upon certain cult members’. They hacked off his head! Whatever next? Thinking about this makes me want to expand the ‘Horror in Cornwall’ page to include some of these 'real' stories. It could be a bit like Mulder's scrapbooks, but an online version. That way I’d have somewhere to refer to, and also send angry parents, whose teenage kids have been playing Lost Souls...and wetting the bed.

Jonathan

P.s. I found this teaser very interesting: Face The Horror

...

Spring in Cornwall: Tis bright and luverly.

2010-02-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

Early Spring for Cornwall.

Taking a walk down through Duloe, and Stocks Lane, this afternoon revealed Spring has come early to Cornwall. We managed to avoid the blizzards and snow fall this last Winter, which may explain why everything is sprouting into life, and the bird life is as lively as a bright May afternoon. The sun was warm, leaving long shadows across the landscape, with some hillsides still in total shadow; the sun has yet to touch those dark, damp places, where bracken is stirring into life, and snowdrops speckle the leaf mulch beneath the foot.

The loggers have thinned the Stocks Wood, so it is no longer the dark, thick pine forest it once was. Some will know these woods as ‘Carrion Woods’, from The Lost Crown, but may not recognise them at all. The trucks and diggers have made a terrible mess of the woods, and lane, carving away old stone walls to make paths for their diesel guzzling monsters.

I was reminded, while passing through, of those early scenes in Watership Down, where JCB’s appear as demonic beasts to the timid bunnies losing their home. But, you can’t be too negative, given that the woods have only been thinned, and not destroyed, so I hope the churned mud, broken walls and ugly plastic water pipes are hidden, in time, by the bracken, birches and reeds. Those plants may be sleeping, but today’s bright sun is bound to have warmed them into action.

Further down the lane, the little train station at Causeland provided a welcome rest, and sit down (and a quick KitKat!). It’s a really pleasant spot, by the stream, and provides a good place to observe the hill, directly opposite. This is a place where Buzzards hunt, fox cubs play and the occasional young deer strays to nibble the fertile flora. We seem to have hundreds of Buzzards! I remember when they were a surprising, and unexpected sight, but not anymore! Pairs of birds swoop low over the fields, or soar above the treetops, no longer fearful of man, and quite happy to perch for a while, and let out one of those wonderful cries. It sounds a bit like an eagle, of the Nevada desert, and provides an eerie sound in the landscape. I can’t remember what the Cornish landscape sounded like, without that shrill cry. Quite haunting.

I also got to find some new locations, for The Last Crown. My plan, for the next few months, is to hunt around, and locate some cracking new places for Nigel, Lucy, (and Mr.Tibbs) to explore! I’ve found two great little locations, but feel I am only scratching the surface of what Cornwall has to offer. The plan, as of next week, is to write to the local papers, and request some suggestions from readers. It is likely, given the nature of the game, to interest those with haunted homes and businesses. There are quite a few…including old mills, bakeries and fallen farmsteads, so I think we can all look forward to seeing some lesser known locales, represented in-game, for all to enjoy, no matter what corner of the world you live in. I’ve always liked the idea of ‘virtual tourism’, dating back all the way to Myst, or even Mystery of Arkham Manor!, so the ‘Crown’ games are continuing a tradition, of sorts.

I’d also like to get a lot more wildlife into the next game; birds, bugs and beasts! My aim would be to create some wildlife puzzles, as I’ve always appreciated a little education with my gaming, as long as it isn’t too obscure or academic. Identifying creatures in Riven was a great way of introducing the world, and marvel at how much detail and effort went into those early Myst games. There were animals in ‘Lost Crown’, but they were never part of any specific puzzles, or contributed much to the plot, so the aim would be to include more animal mythology and folklore, via Nanny Noah, Bob Tawny (with his Owlish name), and good ‘ol Mr.Russet. There was a lot of animal chatter from Russet, back in the first game, but it didn’t feed the story, and distracted away from the ‘big, black birds’ of Northfield Church. So, alot of stuff got snipped. Russet’s favourite animal is the badger…so loved, and so loathed…by the people of this countryside, in equel measure.

I think he felt some affinity with the old brocks and badgers, so it’s something to develop. Perhaps old Russet lives beneath ground, in his own little set. That’s a nice idea, and would make a lovely location for the game. Hmm, perhaps all the characters should have an animal with which they are associated? Cole Tawny, the dead son of Rose Noah and Bob Tawny, appeared throughout TLC1, in the form of a Grenanback Dragonfly, so it’s not such a jump to imagine all the characters having some form of animal spirit, hidden away inside them, but allowed to wander when no-one is looking, or night has fallen. A kind of ‘double life’. So, what creature would Professor Oogle be, I wonder? A mole? A bookworm? Or an old, wise owl. Ha! It’s going to be great fun thinking some of this stuff up, for use in-game. So, without further ado, I should get back to it.

Thanks for reading,
Jonathan

The Sound of Dark Fall Itself, by the Lost Souls.

2010-02-03T04:19:00.000-08:00

The Dark Fall – Lost Souls Soundtrack CD has finally been finalised. It’s a 23 track collection of music from the latest game, by myself and composer Ben Gammons. The styles are mixed, just like the game itself, so expect some nostalgic soundscapes, urban horrors, and of course, little Amy herself, singing some of her little ditties. It’s a surprisingly coherent listen, given that two of us worked on the soundtrack, and surprisingly relaxing!

My favourite are:

Power Returns: A kind of broken remix of the original Dark Fall theme; back in 2000, it was pleasant piece of harp music, by my friend Kevin MacNaughton, where as ‘Lost Souls’ sees the thing bent into a badly tuned nightmare, all broken plucks and discordant twangs. It’s not an uncomfortable listen; it’s just very appropriate for Lost Souls. Listen out for the whispered words, too!

The Sly Fox: One of Ben’s quirkier tracks, as heard in Gloria’s mad car journey. It’s kind of 60’s spy movie, meets Pink Panther, and is always a delight to listen to. You’ll be humming the base guitar riff for hours afterwards, and creeping around town like an undercover agent. It's damn funky!

Come Closer: A really weird piece of experimentation, this one. It’s Amy doing an improvised skipping tune, combined with ethereal humming, and a tinny, distant version of Silent Night. Again, it’s a surprisingly ok listen, and not the nightmarish cacophony that you might expect. Then again, who am I to say, given my many years of aural abuse and experimentation?

Dowerton Station: One of Ben’s, and a real delight. You hear this in the Station Foyer, hence the title. It’s all crystalline shards and metallic drones. I think it captures the interior of the station really well, and suggests ice particles, (it is November after all), and ghosts, hiding in the shadows. I was tempted to add the ticking station clock to the track, but thought better of it. Music is music, so as soon as you add sound effects it becomes a soundtrack. Plus, if you want the extra Station sounds, you can put the game on!

Amy Games: Quite a big track, this one, with it’s Tibetan chanting! I’m a big fan of the Fatal Frame games (PS2 games, known by the dull title of Project Zero in the EU), so I’ve always wanted to get some Eastern elements into one of the soundtracks, and Lost Souls was perfect. The last two Amy Party Games take place is a kind of no-where world, where candles are the only illumination, and alchemical nonsense decorates the walls. Basically, it’s quite a creepy room, and a bit of chanting can do nothing more than add an extra creepy layer. I just wish the CD version was a bit longer, but, it’s a good listen as it is.

Ok, so that’s the ones I’ve picked out, but there’s plenty more to enjoy, or get spooked by. There are 23 tracks in all, from different parts of the game, so I think it’s pretty good value. The postage is FREE, as always, to anywhere in the world, so if you are a fan of Lost Souls, game soundtracks, or just want some seriously spooky music, give it a go!

It was a real pleasure to work on the soundtrack with a fellow enthusiast, like Ben, as I think having someone else on-board really added something to both the soundtrack, and the experience of making 'Lost Souls'. Getting demos through the post was a treat, as it was odd not having to do everything myself. So, expect to hear more of Ben's work in future titles, by both myself, and others writers!

Thanks,
Jonathan

Full Track Listing:

01 Dark Fall Theme by Jonathan Boakes
02 A Fault In Time by Ben Gammons
03 The Tunnel by Ben Gammons
04 Dowerton Station by Ben Gammons
05 Power Returns by Jonathan Boakes
06 The Hotel Reopens by Jonathan Boakes
07 Abandoned Hotel by Ben Gammons
08 A Guest In Pain by Ben Gammons
09 Gold & Silver by Jonathan Boakes
10 Butterfly Room by Ben Gammons
11 The Sly Fox by Ben Gammons
12 To End A Life by Ben Gammons
13 Come Closer by Jonathan Boakes
14 The Forgotten by Jonathan Boakes
15 Shadowkin by Jonathan Boakes
16 Urban Decay by Jonathan Boakes
17 Haunted Hallways by Jonathan Boakes & Ben Gammons
18 Scissor Room by Jonathan Boakes
19 The Astronomer by Jonathan Boakes
20 Mr Bones by Jonathan Boakes
21 Seance Room by Jonathan Boakes
22 Amy Games by Jonathan Boakes
23 Gold & Silver Reprise by Jonathan Boakes

Alien Big Cat in Cornwall!

2010-01-05T10:16:00.000-08:00

Big Cat Sighting in Cornwall? Real or hoax?

A recent edition of The Fortean Times featured this article on ‘The Beast of Sandplace’; a big cat sighting, or ABC as they are also known.

Sandplace is a small hamlet just outside Looe; known mostly for its train station, and old canal, which forms part of the Looe Valley Line. It is a picturesque rail line, which travels from the old market town of Liskeard, then through the rural landscape of Saint Keyne, the marshy bogs at Causleand (well known to Lost Crown fans as Northfield Junction), and finally, the train skims the edge of the West Looe Estuary, with it’s Little Egrets, Heron colonies, kingfishers, spoonbills and buzzards! Quite a trip.

But, in all my time travelling the line I have yet to see the Beast of Sandplace! The lucky Farleigh’s got to spot the big, black monster, on a holiday trip to Looe, and were able to take a photo.

Click the image to view the complete article.

The scan is from the October edition of The Fortean Times (FT254), which also has startling features regarding, of all things, ‘Mermaids: Myth or Reality’, ‘Namibian Bloodsuckers’ and ‘Psychic Photography’. A good romp of a read! But, like the Big Cat story, I find it wise to read the magazine accompanied by a small pot of salt…to sprinkle the occasional pinch here are there.

Jonathan

;)

Christmas ‘Lost Souls’ Round Up

2009-12-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas ‘Lost Souls’ Round Up

T'was the night before Christmas, and all through the hotel, the creatures were stirring, to bring forth Hell...

Those haunting, ghostly figures have been busy, the last couple of weeks, as they drift across the Atlantic and English Channel, to a shelf near you! The ‘Lost Souls’ finally materialised, a bit later than planned, on December 4th, 2009. At last! Here’s a round up of what’s been happening, for anyone interested, or needing some extra info:

Trailer: The Station Hotel
"The teaser offers a taste of what to expect, or dread!, in Lost Souls. The old Station Hotel is an uncertain, fluctuating place, almost unable to decide what time it should be based in. Is it the neglected, forgotten place of our time, standing alone on the dges of town? Or is it a warm, inviting hotel; glowing with nostalgia, but hiding the true horrors of the 1940's? Beyond the long hallway, the hotel rooms hide all sorts of secrets..." - Jonathan Boakes December 4th, 2009

Teaser: Have you seen this girl?
The young girl disappeared on her 11th Birthday, after being expelled from school. The Head Mistress of Saint Swithin's School for Girls thought her a bad influence on the other girls, and she frightened her teachers with macabre drawings and an unhealthy interest in the dead! Amy then vanished, never to be seen again...until Bonfire Night, when The Inspector goes looking for her.

---------------------------

Interviews

There’s a nice’n’spikey interview over at ‘Join The Adventure’. It was unusual, and interesting to be asked about my choices for TLC’s design and execution (by someone who had actually played it!), and also get asked what I think about ‘Casual Games’, you know, those HOG things. I’ve looked at a few of them, but can’t say it’s the sort of thing that would hook me me…but, maybe I am too quick to judge. The fact that some devs have stated they will now make HOGS, rather than full games, and still make as much money is very telling. A ‘Dark Fall’ HOG game isn’t out of the question, I just think I’d try to put more effort into it, than just making the player collect bits of melon…to move onto the next slider puzzle. Well, I hope I’d put more effort in. The Ravenshurst games, (think that’s the right spelling), have been highly recommended to me, so I’ll give them a look! I could be missing out on the new wave of adventure games.

Full ‘Join the Adventure’ Interview is here, In English and Italian:

Quote: “If I have enough free time to play a game I usually want something with a good story, logical puzzles and a reason for using a big name like ‘Dracula’. I am sorry to say that I am not one of the gamers who enjoys collecting bits of melon, hidden in a 2D scene, that has no basis in reality, and no real sense of gameplay.”

http://www.jointheadventures.com/viewtopic.php?f=21&p=84235#p84235

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Just Adventure +: Developer Diary

Furthermore, I had a chat with Matt Clark, and Philip Philippou, (both involved in Lost Souls to some degree), about the game. I was interested to know what they made of the thing; was it different then they'd expected, and...well...was it any good?

The full chat, text only (the Jolly Sailor in West Looe was too loud for a PodCast), is available on the Just Adventure Website: Here

Quote: "That’s nonsense. The visuals can add to, but can't replace enjoyment, or story. I enjoyed the first Dark Fall because I was able to explore, poke around, and learn about the history of the place. You can do that in Lost Souls."

http://www.justadventure.com/articles/The12DaysOfDarkFall/12DaysDarkFall.shtm

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Podcast: With Tom Baynham, Jonathan Boakes & Matt Clark

And even furthermore! There's an audio interview, with myself and Matt Clark, available from Tom Baynham's Website: Here

The interview/chat is LONG! An hour and a half, so make yourself a nice cuppa, or do the dishes, or watch the snow fall...and have a listen. There's lots of clues to what's happening next, with the games, and a few naughty spoilers for Bracken Tor, the second game from Shadow Tor Studios. Looking forward to that!

---------------------------

Reviews

Very quiet, so far. I don’t tend to stick around for reviews, having become addicted to feedback regarding Dark Fall: The Journal, back in 2001. I remember staying up, half the night, on a regular basis, just waiting for forum posts and opinions. I guess anyone would do that, given that it was a first, and unusual experience. This time round things are a lot more relaxed. I am very pleased with Lost Souls, believing (knowing! if I'm honest) that it has come together as planned, and has the tone and atmosphere I was after. It’s probably one of the most miserable adventure games, ever made, and has urban, modern elements that I’ve never seen before in the genre. So, I am mightily proud, and hope gamers like doing something a bit different; Stabbing oozing, squealing Life Leeches with rusty scissors is not your regular adventure puzzle! ‘Bring back the slider puzzle’ I hear the purists cry! But, all in all, I think the job is done, and I’m ready to move onto the next game!

Game Debate Review: 85%

Quote: “Not just good, but usually scary enough to warrant an emergency pair of rubber pants on constant standby.”

Full review: Here

Player Feedback

Player feedback has been ACE! One guy compared the story structure and tone to Mulholland Drive, which gave me a total fangasm! It’s my favourite Lynch movie, so I was mightily chuffed!

Quote from Argyle1968: “...In this respect it reminds me a lot of the film Mulholland Drive. In sum, I have a new favourite game. No other horror gaming experience comes close to this one IMHO.”

Quote from Pathfinder: “This is not your mother's Station Hotel.”

Quote from OldLady (who lives in Looe too!): “I loved all of the previous of his games but this is the best ever. Atmospheric, creepy, puzzling and challenging.”

All from: www.gameboomers.com, but do look out for others.

The Future

I guess that’s it, once again! Another game finished, and out-there for all to play! I’m going to pack up a few things, rent a cottage, and get writing TLC2. I have an absolute sack full of ideas, which are all exciting, so will have to be careful to use them effectively, and not create another 30 hour + monster!! Then again, what’s wrong with epic? Nothing! If it’s massive, and sprawling, then so be it!

Jonathan

P.s. And a very Happy Christmas to all of you! Wherever you may be!

Friday the 13th and the Seventh Window.

2009-11-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Winter is upon us. The light fades so fast, at this time of year. Night descends with the fog, as something crawls from a damp, dark cave....

Hurrah! The job is done.

An extraordinary amount of time has been spent finishing off Dark Fall - Lost Souls and testing it on Windows 7. I seem to pick release dates at the worst possible time! Last time, it was finishing The Lost Crown, and getting it to work on (the dreaded) Windows Vista. But, I am pleased to report there are no issues with Windows 7 and Lost Souls. It looks and sounds great, in fact, I just wish I'd pick better timing.

A Global Release

The plan, with the release of Lost Souls, is to make it as available as possible, to as many people as possible (wherever in the world they may be). Coordinating something like this is extremely tricky...but fun. The last thing I would ever want was for anyone to think I was ignoring them!

So, a new plan was needed. It came about after giving up on my hunt for a good, honest, US publisher. I'm still looking, but in the mean time, both myself and Iceberg Interactive are ready for a challenge, so plan to stock as many outlets as we can, while providing Digital Downloads, boxed version s and re-releases of older games. I'm a big fan of online shopping, and believe it is the way forward for indies and adventures, so I'm always happy to go down this route. There are a surprising number of independent game stores in the USA, so it will be interesting to deal with them directly, and send over plenty of copies! It's all rather exciting!

A Ghost Story For Christmas

This next week is bound to see a whole flurry of new screenshots, the trailer and other promotional goodies. But, alongside the official stuff, I plan to chat about the game on the forums and in interviews. I'll try to keep spoilers to a minimum. After that, the game is shipping towards the end of the month (as far as I know), so I've inadvertently created a 'Ghost Story For Christmas'. For those unfamiliar with the title, I shall explain...

...back, back through the mists of time, the BBC began to broadcast dramatic versions of classic ghost stories by the likes of M.R.James, Dickens and Fanu. More often than now, the films were broadcast on Christmas Eve.
They were great little films, and very underrated, both then and now. It was the BBC version of A Warning to the Curious that sparked my interest in the paranormal. Later, 'Warning' became the heart of my story, for The Lost Crown, referencing many locations and ideas suggested by the story. Definitely one to read, if you like either a good ghost story or The Lost Crown. Other films, always shown at Christmas, include The Signalman, Room 13 and, most recently, Crooked House...a modern continuation of the 'Ghost Story for Christmas' series. So, I'm quite pleased that Lost Souls will become part of that tradition.

Halloween, and Friday the 13th, are super times to release a spooky game, but I did need to make sure it would work, and be as good as I want it to be. I am more than happy with this third Dark Fall tale, and believe fans are in for a bit of a treat! It may not have made the halloween frightfest that many wanted, but I can promise that the 'Lost Souls' will help provide some genuine chills this Winter time. It's the darkest, most strange, thing that I have ever written, so I can't wait for the feedback. It's a vibrant example of the old fashioned ghost story, but told in a modern style and references very real, and very unpleasant, urban truths and trends.

Something old, something borrowed and something blue.

There are several re-releases happening, in the next season. The original Dark Fall games are being re-packaged by Iceberg Interactive. The 'Adventures in Terror' package will be appearing shortly. It's great to see those older games getting another official release, after hiding away for a couple of years. The pack includes 'Barrow Hill', by Shadow Tor Studios, which makes very nice, and very appropriate, company. The cover, designed by myself, Shadow Tor and Iceberg is absolutely brilliant! It's a kind of 1950's film poster meets comic book concept, that is sure to grab attention and raise a few eye-brows.

Barrow Hill's 'Emma Harry' is transformed into a buxom, woman in peril, in tiny denim shorts. Where as yours truly gets to sport a handbag, and fight off giant slug monsters, with a kitchen knife! It's all a bit mad, and sex-ploitation, but I hope most see the funny side (including YOU Emma). I love all those old film posters, where the art was often more interesting than the film, so hope/know I am continuing that trend. All our games have their moments, but the dark Russian art of the 'Adventures in Terror' pack really does flatter us! Keep your eyes peeled for previews of the box, as it is definitely worth seeing!

Birthday Blues.

Another year, another age. 36! What happened? I was looking forward to my early 30's, as a time to work, be successful and enjoy life. Well, I guess I'm doing ok, so can't grumble. But, my goodness, the year seems to have flown by. I wanted the TLC sequel in full production by now, but I haven't even started. Thankfully, the story was planned back in 2006, and takes up right from where you left off...but maybe not on the beach! Lots of characters are returning; like Nanny Noah, Bob Tawny, Lucy Reubans and...of course...man of the moment... Nigel Danvers. Danvers has his own range of clothing coming out, next year, to take the Danvers Style to the world (body warmers, flat caps, 'turned up' jeans, and plenty of pockets for your ghost-hunting gear). A 'Teach Yourself DanversSpeak™' book and CD will also follow shortly afterwards...he's a busy guy. Only joking. Nigel has, in reality, been attending speech therapy classes, to bring him up to scratch with the rest of humanity. Rest assured knowing that Nigel is now fully aware of his odd speech patterns, and also promises to allow 'Dialogue Skipping'. Whether he keeps to his promise is anyone's guess.

Instead, do get excited about the idea of character swapping, in The Last Crown (official title). I really like the idea of playing both Nigel and Lucy, as they will both approach the puzzles and locations differently. Nigel, if you remember, was all "it's too dark down here, lucy, please help me..." when entering the Old Net Hut. A bit of a wimp. Whereas kick-ass Lucy Reubans threw a rock through the window, and guided Nigel to safety via a Nite-Vision camera. What a girl! I blame growing up with three, very bossy, sisters on my complete lack of masculine pride, but happily celebrate the adventurous female in my story for Last Crown. I want Saxton to feel like a dynamic and unpredictable place. It would be great to give characters their own time scale, motivations and behavior. It's something I've seen done well in the big RPG's, like Oblivion, so would be honoured to include elements like that in my humble adventure.

For example, imagine you have to track down a particular character, at a certain time of the day. You would have had clues as to where and when, from other characters or sources of info, so it would simply be a case of being in the right place at the right time, for something important to happen. Not all these events have to be essential, either. Different gamers will find different things more interesting. Saxton could be a very busy place. Some may like to pick up 'tasks' from the dodgy looking fishermen, on the quay, or how about listening to the drunken rambling in The Bear (the pub), come closing time? It could be really exciting, and very non-linear! But, I would have to make sure gamers were provided with plenty of clues, and guide them to hint heavy locations, to avoid lots of aimless wandering. There's nothing worse than that. I played The Lost Crown recently, while making the Italian version, and noticed the first few scenes lack direction and purpose. That's a problem, as it's the beginning of the game! I should have hooked gamers straight into the plot, rather than sit enigmatically on the fence. The Last Crown can definitely address many of the short-comings, witnessed in the first game, as well as add plenty of new locations and a better gaming experience overall. I am very much looking forward to providing a 'build your own ghost-hunting gadgets' feature, that allows you to dismantle everyday electronics and domestic items, and build mad new gadgets, that increase in power as you progress through the game, and increase your skills as a ghost-hunter and...most excitingly...a mechanic! Again, I expect Lucy's gadgets to be far more impressive than Nigel's...then again, he has the mysterious Nanny Noah to guide him. Let battle commence!

Note: Just found out that TLC1 was made Number One Scary Game on Just Adventure. Excellent!! I tend to think of my games as 'creepy', rather than scary, so it's quite a surprise. Dark Fall 1 is also in the list, at number 7. So, 'scary' it'll have to be. Good thing is, Lost Souls is very scary. It's creepy to, in places (like the more nostalgic locations), but the scare factor has definitely been 'upped'. There's always something spooky about old, abandoned locations, and Lost Souls has plenty of those...but, this time round, the 'real' urban context of the game (a real town, with all too relevant 'issues') should pull gamers into the world, whether they like the place or not. I've spent some time in some lovely locations, when ghost-hunting, but I've also seen some vile places; old tower blocks, prisons, WWII bunkers, sewers...etc etc. Unsurprisingly, the horrible places are always the scariest. Removed of prettiness, and nostalgia, you are left with a miserable husk of a building...and that's not a place anyone would enjoy spending the night. Hopefully, you will all keep your wits about you, and take regular breaks during game play, as I do believe that Lost Souls is a genuinely scary game, with some shocking moments and gruesome discoveries. If The Lost Crown boasted 'the most realistic ghost-hunting experience', then I can confidently state that Dark Fall: Lost Souls will provide the most scary 'ghost-hunting experience'. Don't play it alone. Or at night.

Jonathan

A Lost Soul, BH Radio and Thunder!

2009-06-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, and it's a hot one! Let's hope the rain holds off this year, so the sun can burn some memories into this muddled head of mine. It's been a busy time, these last couple of months. So, without further a do, here's some news from a humid and busy Cornwall.

Dark Fall: Lost Souls
A Returning Character

Pop open the mock-champagne, for Matilda Fly is back in town. Dark Fall fans will remember Matilda as the ghostly failed actress, holed up at The Station Hotel till the press had lost the scent. She was a rather tragic figure, and a little unpleasant, but people really do remember her quite fondly. I've always wanted to 'do' something with Matilda, anything really, as she seemed so strong, and dare I say it, very adventure game-like. She's one of those cool characters, who come across very easily, with minimum effort from me. So, you can imagine my surprise, the other day, when I found myself captured by her gaze....right here on Looe High Street.

It was morning, a midweek morning, and nothing seemed different about the town. I was making my way to the Coffee shop, to get the first latte of the day. I usually get a take-out, to have on the beach or pier...anyway!...there she was, in the window of the Pet Shop! How bizarre. How Matilda! You see, the thing is, Looe Pet Shop is also a dress hire company (don't ask why, it's a Cornish thing, I am told), but I've never really taken the place in. That's now changed, as I find myself purposely passing the Dress Hire place (and Pet Shop!) a few times a day...just to see if Matilda is still there. The likeness is uncanny, compared to the portraits seen in Dark Fall...and also the impression that I have in my mind. The hair cut is very severe, and the dress is quite vampy...but it is definitely Matilda. I took a couple of snaps this afternoon, which I'll post here. Does anyone remember Worzel Gummidge? It was a children's TV series, from the early 80's, about a scarecrow that came to life for two curious kids. Quite spooky, really. Worzel was in love with Aunt Sally, a sort of woman-sized doll, used at Fayre Grounds, she could also 'come to life'. She really was quite a tragic figure. I always felt there was something utterly depressing about beings that only live when others are present.

I think Matilda is a little like that. She lives to be adored...so, that terrible performance of hers, in The Two Faced Bride of Bodmin Moor, really put an end to Matilda's life. I can't imagine she would ever recover. So, I am hoping you are like me, and want to give the retched creature another go; to have a second chance; another stab at things. Look, what I am trying to say, is that you should expect quite a bit of Matilda in the next game. You might also be seeing a little of her world....the luvvie paradise that was 1930's Theatre Land! Hurrah! Let's pop open another bottle of 'mock champagne'.

Spring Watch

On a more serious note, I will ask; what on earth has happened to Spring Watch?! For those scratching their heads, I'll add, very quickly, that Spring Watch is a 'live' BBC TV show, which for three weeks has been following the progress of several birds and mammals, as they struggle to rear their young, at this, the most vital time of the year. It's always been a painful show to watch, sometimes. Who can forget the sorry tale of the Barn Owl chick that ate his tiny brothers and sisters, 'live' on TV? Ghastly! But, this year was even more unbearable in places. I was particularly moved by the little Plover chicks, desperate to survive, after being deserted by mother and father, and then brutally murdered by a newcomer, eager to have his way with their mother. None of the chicks survived.

It really was quite distressing, but...and this is the big thing...the whole sorry event felt horribly, but brilliantly, natural. New presenter, Chris Packham (no stranger to live nature shows), was great. His attitude remained fixed throughout the three weeks, and was always a comfort to fall back on. Packham, like many, knows that death, disaster and cruelty are always present in nature, yet it survives in so many forms. In the case of the Plovers, their death was brought about by a strong male, eager to make sure that his species survives. Whether the feathery brute was right to think the chicks were weak, in comparison to his future brood, is another matter. There's nothing we can do about it, so you can only watch...either fascinated, or as I was, in floods of tears. It was an emotional time, and the highlight of three spectacular weeks of live telly. When it comes to understanding nature, Darwin wins, every time. Survival of the fittest.

The British Indie Scene

Things are looking up for indie developers, this year. After a terrible 2008, (with publishers going bust, and some going bent), there is a light on the horizon. A few lights, actually! I think I'm about to sign some new contracts. The atmosphere is good, and the games radar is looking very healthy indeed. There's a new game from Shadow Tor Studios, the wonderfully named Bracken Tor. From the screens and website, it looks like it'll easily thrill Barrow Hill fans...of which there are a few!
There's also 'Coven' from Arberth Studios, and my humble effort, which is making great progress...with a little help from Matilda. So, the British are offering quite a bit, this year. Three UK titles in one year? That's got to be a record, no? 2009 is the 'big one', for us. I hope it goes well.

Barrow Hill Radio

Speaking of Barrow Hill...I see Emma Harry has been busy, re-launching herself as a 'live' internet DJ? Her radio station featured very prominently, in Matt's first game, and gave the whole thing a good sense of verisimilitude. The station was fun to listen, but a bit camp in places. I can't say that about the new website. It's really slick. There's a whole playlist, games to struggle with (Slider Puzzles? Matt? Honestly?) and a rather revealing Message Board. It seems people have been spotting odd creatures, beasts and monsters all across the country. I'm not too sure how genuine the cases are, (some of the photos look VERY dodgy) but they make fun reading. There's a nice contrast between 'I've seen a monster' and 'shoot these devils' at its core, which again, adds lots of verisimilitude.

If brackentor.com is the place for official screen shots, press stuff and official news, then barrowhillradio.co.uk is definitely the place for gossip, clues and fans to hang out. Please, please, please, will someone try the Slider Puzzle?! I don't want to be the only one on the Scoreboard. It looks sad. I don't play Slider Puzzles! Well, I say that, but it isn't true. There's always a slider hidden away in those Nancy Drew games. I'm about to finish Castle Malloy (not the best ND, sadly), and that had a slider. Yes, an utterly pointless slider puzzle as soon as you start the game. But, you kind of know where you are with a slider. Casual gamers love them, like those Hidden Object Games! I did think about making a hidden object game, set in the lighthouse from Lights Out, but changed my mind. Not too sure why. Perhaps I was being overly snotty, or perhaps I'm just too bogged down with the other projects...who kows. Perhaps I'll give it some more thought, later in the year. One little HOG can't be bad, can it?

Music to my ears.

I have a composer! A chap called Ben mailed me, completely out of the blue, with a delightful cover letter and demo CD. An actual CD! I think Ben has been producing music for some time now, based on the quality, so I was quite blown away. The CD contained tracks specially written for Dark Fall: Lost Souls, based on his impressions from Dark Fall 1. So, I quickly transferred the tracks to the iPod and took myself off to the Kilminorth Woods, for a serious listen. I was there for hours, hidden away by the stream.

I am man enough (read: daft enough) to admit that some of the tracks really spooked me. I was drifting away with Track 3, lost aurally somewhere between the Hotel and the Train Platforms, when I heard the loud snap of a twig. I thought, at first, that the sound may have been on the music, but realised that I'd not noticed it before. So, that meant that either a large animal was nearby (quick, where's that BHR Beast Sightings Message Board?!) or, someone was stalking me in the woods. I moved my hand to the iPod, and paused the track. I sat for a few moments, utterly still, listening for the slightest movement, until finally...a dog, followed by its man friend, came bounding out of the woods. What a Long Tailed Tit I had been! Spooked by a labrador. But, thing is, I walk those woods all the time, and don't normally get spooked (unless, it is dark, and then I scream like a queen! See www.thishauntedland.co.uk for evidence). So, I can only explain my nerves on Ben's spooky score. It's great stuff. We are busy chopping, changing and rearranging, right now, but I can say that the score will be very evocative, and eerie. Not classical, by any means, instead, it is more of a subliminal piece, full of deep reverbs, moans and ghostly sounds. It's going to be great. I just need to make a game as good as Ben's music.

Thunderous World

I've just got back in from a long walk; down through Stocks Lane (Karswell House and Carrion Wood from TLC), and saw some fantastic sights. The afternoon was thundery with occasional heavy downpours, so there were allsorts of birds, beasts and mini-beasts snatching a moment, to feed and flee, in between the showers.

My favourite was a huge Buzzard, perched on a fence post, out in the fields trying to dry out. The huge wings were draped down, either side of the bird, shaken occasionally, by the big bird of prey, completely happy to have me watch his private moment. Then, with a piercing cry, it took to the sky, did a circle around my position, and disappeared into the pines. Utter magic. But, I forgot to take a photo! I know, I know, what a dumbo. But, funny thing is, whenever I hear that bird cry I want to say "Shoot straight while the wind blows...". If anyone can guess where that quote is from, I will send you a prezzie...maybe Matt's next game or something! (Ha ha!!) No clues. You'll either know what I refer to, or not. Good luck.

Here's some other pics from the walk. The foliage is all quite fresh - it's early in the Summer, and very wet - so there's a fluorescent quality to the world. I hope some of my adventure comes across in the snaps. I didn't want to turn the PC on, due to the storm, so this was a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Jonathan

P.s. I'm going to miss Matilda...when she vanishes from that window...never to be seen again. I'll let you know when it happens, so we can have a moments Blog silence.

Bracken Tor: The Time of Tooth and Claw. New game!

2009-06-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to say how excited I am by Shadow Tor Studios new game, Bracken Tor: The Time Of Tooth And Claw. It looks to be quite a chilly, creepy experience. Graphics-wise, the thing looks the biz! Well done Matt.

Here's some details:

Explore the desolate moorland, searching for evidence.
Travel back in time, to The Bronze Age, to learn its secrets.
A complete interactive world; brought to life on your PC.
Environmental sounds and weather to heighten the experience.
An unnerving and eerie soundtrack, to chill the blood.
Experience virtual archaeology, and uncover the past.
Survive beast attacks using items close at hand. Defend yourself!
Glean clues from newspaper articles and local radio broadcasts.
Solve a bloody murder through investigation and detection.

I had better get back to working on Dark Fall: Lost Souls. Looks like I have stiff competition in Cornwall, when it comes to spooky adventure games. That can never be a bad thing.

See you at Bracken Tor. Bring a thermos of tea, and a sharp tool...looks like we will be digging in the dirt, and possibly defending ourselves from something nasty...with claws...and teeth...and greasy black hair...oh, that's the average Cornish Landowner, isn't it?!

Jonathan

A treasure arrives in Athens; Sadly not the Elgin Marbles.

2009-04-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

I love this bit of news, regarding the recently released Pins & Needles Limited Edition. It's where number 0001 ended up. I was thrilled, when the first order came in...obviously,...but was even more surprised to see 'where' it was going. Athens no less. Who says self-publishing can't be glam! Take a look at these shots of the Erechtheum:

Gorgeous Models with fabulous poses: I must thank Aya of Just Adventure and his girlfriend for modelling Dark Fall is such an attractive fashion...and, what's that I spy...a T-Shirt sporting the artwork from The Lost Crown. Crumbs. This all makes rainy Cornwall look a bit drab in comparison. Athens is the place to be.

Lastly, here's the second photo, just to finish off this short blog. It's been a real pleasure, to send out all the game packs. Part of the fun of self-publishing a title is NOT having any expectations of where the packages will end up. So, these photos have been a real treat.

Thanks for reading, and taking a look.

Jonathan

P.s. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acropolis_of_Athens

Dark Fall News & GhostWatch 2

2009-04-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

Oiling the wheels of the (cottage) Industry.

I’m glad to say all the pre-ordered Pins & Needles have made their way out into the big wide world. Packaged with care, carried to the Looe Post Office and taken away by the man in the red van. Goodbye all you pins; goodbye all you needles!

It’s been a fun process, putting the units together and sending them on their way. I debated, with myself, whether it was necessary to include a shrink-wrap...around the box...but then thought about how wasteful it was. You know about shrink-wrap, it’s that annoying cellophane that you struggle with on DVD boxes. It’s horrible stuff. But, I do remember, back in 2001, a man on a well-known Adventure Forum complaining that his game had arrived but “it isn’t shrink-wrapped, I want a NEW copy”. I thought it was odd at the time, but have grown to realise that Shrink-Wrap = New. It’s not actually true...it’s actually just shrink-wrap...but, who can fight just strongly held opinions. Plus...

I’m trying, with some success, to keep packaging down to a minimum, and use ‘recycled’ wherever possible...but it is hard. My initial plan to have the game ship in a chunky, rough recycled sleeve went out the window, when the only place to get them turned out to be Oregon! (http://www.stumptownprinters.com/)
It would have been ironic to have them shipped over, place the DVD and CD inside, and then ship them back to the US again. Imagine that Carbon Footprint. It would be huge. Even Big Foot would quake at the size. So, instead, I hand stamped the CD’s and CD sleeves for soundtracks, and designed a new piece of artwork for the DVD sleeve.

Why Scissors? Why broken scissors?!

Many have asked “why the scissors?” but I am reluctant to say, exactly. The scissors play a big part in the next game, so I’m a bit tight lipped right now. But, memory masters will remember a pair of dangerous looking scissors in Dark Fall: The Journal. They were stabbed into the wall of Hotel Room 2A. They looked cool at the time, and a little unnerving, but now they have their own purpose. They, along with light, will be you main allies in Lost Souls. I’m not saying you stab anyone, or anything, but they are used throughout the game. A knife is a knife; a nasty weapon in the right/wrong hands, but there is something domestic, and familiar, about a pair of scissors. To use them, in the wrong way, or to protect yourself, suggests panic. If you expected trouble, or expected to cause trouble, you’d take a better weapon...but no, you’ll have to pull those scissors out of the wall, on Hotel Room 2A. Great stuff!

Production Line, from Workshop to Post Box.

It’s been a funny week. I haven’t actually got that much work done of Lost Souls. Instead, it’s been a repetitive, but relaxing, process of signing and numbering artwork, slipping the artwork into sleeves (in white gloves!), duplicating CD’s and DVD’s (thanks Rick, at http://www.beehivesounds.com/), packing them into the postal packs and then standing in the Post office for over an hour each day (or Matt did). I love it! It’s so real. So personal. So realistic. It’s been a real pleasure to watch the orders come in, and think about who, where and why people are buying my games. I guess a few years of official ‘publishing’ has meant I get less contact with actual gamers, but I did miss it.

It’s almost impossible to get correct (read: honest) figures from publishers, so I never get to know which countries buy the games, and who my demographic are. I guess that information should be forthcoming, but it never has been. So, this last week has been an eye-opener. There are gamers all over the place! And Dark Fall Gamers at that! From Korea, to Australia. From Olso to Athen’s and back to Yorkshire. Then on to Italy and Germany, via France and South Africa. And, of course, the USA, where 99.9% make their way. Amazing! The Darkling Room Shop is such a tiny little enterprise it is truly amazing to see how far the interest goes. It’s very humbling, and encourages me to make the next game extra special...and totally horrible, at the same time.

Lost Souls are forming.

I’ve got loads to look forward to, this next two weeks. I am re-building some of my favourite places from Dark Fall. They include the Train Platforms, The Public Bar and that old Barn, hidden out in the woods. It’s a real delight to return to the locations, and visualise how they might have decayed, even further. The barn, as it happens, has also acquired a rather carnivorous Owl. He’s a nasty blighter. You will be dealing with him, come release, in an unusual way. And ‘no’, don’t worry, you won’t be using the scissors. He’s a bit of character, from the time when the woods were lovely, dark and deep. Now the woods are tatty, ramshackle and filled with the detritus of modern life. The woods hide Dowerton’s biggest secret...the hotel and train station itself. Something happened there, just recently, which has darkened the place more than ever.

A 'missing persons' case can upset a community, and Dowerton’s disappearances are no different. Everyone likes to think the Missing will return, show up or be found, miles away in some unknown place, but the town of Dowerton knows different. People go to that old Hotel and never come back. No-one enters that uninviting wood, for they know what lies on the otherside. It’s a great place to set a ghost story (or 5!), and I think you’re going to love it. Just make sure you find those scissors!

GhostWatch 2 IS happening this Halloween!

There are developments. Thank you to ‘Javier’ in Spain, for reminding me about the plans to do a ‘live’ Ghost Hunt this Halloween. Well, things have moved on. It IS going to happen. The place has been scouted, the permissions have been granted, the presenters are getting their teeth whitened and the ghosts are rehearsing their best wails....but....it’s going to be a 'radio show'. Images are nice, I know. But, radio could be a much better medium. Much spookier. I have no idea what will happen, if anything, but I do believe that the audio medium could be an effective way of drawing you all into the show. At this moment, I am chatting with Emma Harry (yes, THE Emma Harry of Barrow Hill fame) to re-prise her role and host the show...my intrepid investigator, alone on the woods, with only a mic and a soundman for company. (Actually, she’d probably quite like that.)

Also, I might try to host the ‘Hub’ sections myself (you know, like the 'links' and stuff), but I promise not to talk as s...l...o...w...e...l...y... as Nigel. That’s not possible. (I’m still getting flaming hate mail for not allowing subtitle skipping in TLC. My bad). Anyway. Live Ghost Hunt. Halloween. 2009. In the woods with Emma Harry. A ‘live’ website with pics and ghost-cams. Me doing a shocking job of presenting. And, best of all, a genuine Haunted House in Cornwall to explore with us. The place (which I’ll keep secret for now) has a horrible history. Torrid love affairs, murder, cannibalisation and execution. Nasty stuff. We are going to conduct our experiment on the night, with a small crew, and broadcast ‘live’ via the internet, a little like a PodCast or Internet Radio. I’m hoping a few people will listen in, and have nightmares afterwards, but I guess we are doing it for fun. I’ve never been involved in anything like this, so wish me luck.

Jonathan

P.s. I must apologies to Matt Clark, of Barrow Hill fame. I accidentally (ha ha ha!), mentioned that he is working on a second game, currently going by its working title of Barrow Hill 2. I, Jonathan Boakes, apologise for mentioning it. I just couldn’t help myself! Please can you be in the crew for GhostWatch 2?! Pleeeaaasee.

P.p.s. Does anyone know of a good PodCast service, or site that allows ‘live’ streaming. I’m looking into it right now, so any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Lost Souls are waiting...

2009-03-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Dark Fall: Lost Souls is coming...

At last! I have some news about 'Lost Souls'. The game, which is a third installment of the Dark Fall series, is going to be a chilling treat! I am returning to the old train station and hotel, at Dowerton, and I will be taking you with me. Let's see if any ghosts were able to hide from us the first time round, It looks and sounds like the place is still very haunted; the rot has set in, and the place will soon fall. The location is so familiar to me, from my efforts back in 2001, but looks quite a bit more detailed and dark than I remember. Check the recent snaps, on the forums, or the website to see what I mean. If you are joining me at the hotel, make sure you bring a trusty flashlight, a thermos of tea and a good, sturdy weapon. We are going to be facing the Dark Fall itself, come late summer, so you had better be ready for anything!

About Lost Souls: You have unfinished business with the dead. Return to the Train Station and Hotel at Dowerton for a second time, there is a new mystery to solve, and new horrors to face. The old buildings have deteriorated since your last perilous adventure, so you must watch your step, and never turn your back on the darkness....for something hides there; Something evil, unknowable and hungry.

A brand new Dark Fall horror adventure.

From the pen of Jonathan Boakes, author of The Lost Crown.

Explore a derelict train station and hotel, abandoned since World War 2.

A new game engine allows full exploration and movement.

Physically interact with the eerie setting, to really ‘feel’ the place.

Use light as your weapon and ally, to fight the darkness.

A hauntingly creepy stereo score, to chill, alarm and horrify.

Explore the memories of the dead, in their own ‘nightmares’.

Discover the true identity, and power behind, the Dark Fall itself.

The dead of Dowerton are the least of your problems, as you are stalked from one derelict room to the next, by the Dark Fall itself. It wants your soul; to feed upon, devour and torture. You must make the ghosts of the hotel your ally, through any means you can. For it is only through successful exorcisms that you will gain the strength to battle the darkness that lurks in that long forgotten, abandoned place.

Coming very soon, to a cobwebbed shelf near you.

New website, new screens, new everything!
www.DarkFallGames.Com

The website is all new. New location, new pics, new text, new look, new everything! It's been hard work. There are also new versions of the previous Dark Fall games. I haven't 'done a Lucas' and changed any content to be flashier or out of place...no no...instead I fixed some old issues, built some Vista and XP friendly installers...and gave Dark Fall a bit of a Spring clean. There's a couple of new screens, (very minor) and some new sounds. Failed actress, Matilda Fly gets a theme tune! Which is quite apt, haunting and sad. Poor Matilda, she got boo'ed off stage, after messing up all her lines on that opening night, back in 1947. She said, at the time, it was a "fit of nerves"', but the stage hand could smell gin on her breath. I reckon she might still be lingering, at The Station Hotel. We'll have to keep our eyes peeled, while we wander Lost Souls. Oh, and George Crabtree also gets a theme. That blasted Journal of his went on, and on, and on forever (he won't be joining us!). I can't trim it, but I have added a George Crabtree theme, to make the reading experience bearable. Both the new tracks are available on the Music CD which ships with my new 'Pins & Needles' Limited Edition of both original games. It's a nice Music CD.

Lights Out is all at sea.

The big change is Lights Out!

It's been heftily re-vamped up to a new 'Directors Cut'. There were so many elements that got the chop, first time round, that I've always had an itch to fix. My Alienware machine broke down, a couple of weeks ago, so work on Lost Souls ground to a halt. So, I used the unexpected break to tweak Lights Out and get the new website together, with some essential Flash help from Matt Clark. It looks lovely, in a dark, disturbing way. The website accurately captures the tone of the next game, which is nice. But! Back to Lights Out. There's lots of new things to see and do. The Harbour Town, seen briefly at the beginning of play, has been made more lively, and interesting. There's a town drunk, to sing a sea shanty (clues!). Fog rolls in off the sea, and curls around the town. Naughty dockside 'ladies' clatter away on heels, from your approach... and your memories of the previous day now play an important role. Once on the Island, known as Fetch Rock, you will find the old Lighthouse a much more foreboding place, echoing with the ghosts of the missing Lighthouse Keepers. They make a proper impact this time round.

The Directors Cut allows you to 'talk' to the ghosts of the missing men, and get clues as to what happened, that foggy night in 1912. Later on, in the game play, seasoned Lights Out gamers will notice new, or revamped puzzles; like that blasted Boiler puzzle which really put a spanner in the works. I came to play/solve the puzzle, and found it, to my shame, completely confusing and unsolvable. Not quite sure what happened there...but, it's been replaced with a new, less taxing puzzle. Other 'changed' puzzles have been integrated into the world, a little better. There was far too much reliance on reading, in the original, to get past obstacles or get clues. The plot now reveals lots of those clues, in a more lively fashion.
There are still books, throughout the game, but the stories have been replaced, to include tales about the actual lighthouse. They have a much better tone, and add to the atmosphere. So, basically, there's lots of changes here and there, so do grab a copy off of me, if you want to see/play them. There's a new Direct Download version on The Adventure Shop, as well as the Darkling Room Store (that's me), and a highly personalised 'Pins & Needles' Limited Edition, if you want something a bit more touchy feely. It's a lovely item. Signed, numbered and home made. It also comes with the Dark Fall Soundtrack CD, which is a surprisingly good listen...and not all jumps, crashes and haunted house sound effects. There's the lovely Harp track, from the Dark Fall menu, as well as the new Matilda Fly Theme. But, best of all, you'll get to hear the Lights Out theme, in full, which is wonderful. Jan Kavan composed that track, for me, back in 2004. It was lovely to re-hear the piece, and include more of it in Lights Out. All in all, I am dead pleased with the new versions...and feel their re-release is highly appropriate, as the days drift past towards Lost Souls.

A Faithful Companion.

I've also put together game 'Companions' for Dark Fall: Classic Edition and Lights Out: Directors Cut. The companion files include a full walkthrough, which is detailed and includes all the new puzzles and clue changes, as well as quirky chapters that will enhance your experience. The Dark Fall Companion, in particular, has some super additions. The best is Tim's Hints; which is the full list of Tim's Dark Fall clues, and his actual voice to go with them. Lots of gamers missed Tim's Hints, the first time round. Not too sure why. The idea was that Tim would give you a clue as to the last puzzle to played with, if you returned to him on the train footbridge. But, somehow, very few people got to hear him. So, all his lines have been included in the Companion. Also, in there, is a list of all the Ghost-Hunting views you can catch in Dark Fall. There's quite a few, and some are in really obscure locations. So, they are all listed. Get hunting! Lastly, the Conversations with the Dead chapter gives a list of all the questions, and topics you can ask the chattier ghosts (bankrobber, SlyFox, and dying Civil War Hero, Tom Oliver). It's amazing what those ghosts will tell you, once you know what to ask. The same goes for the Ouija Board. A quick glance at the new Lost Souls screenshots will reveal the presence of a new Ouija Board, for the haunted hotel. So, brush up on your seance skills....you are going to need them!

And Finally...

Spring is here! It's great to be making some progress, after all those dark months. March is such a bright time of the year. The last few months got pretty ghastly, sometimes. Crooked Publishers (keeping ALL the cash, and disappearing), Useless Publishers (going bust just after sending out all the TLC stock) and Old Publishers (who just never stop spoiling things, and lying). All in all, I don't know why I bother with them. I haven't had a good experience yet, and (this is very sad) I am not the only one. There are loads of indies going unpaid, unappreciated and abused. For some, it is their first experience of game development, and they could well give up, after the experience. I had no idea quite how bad things had got until I came to the release of The Lost Crown. But, there is light at the end of the tunnel. More indies are considering Self-Publishing, which I love! And others are seeking better ways to get their games 'out there'. Direct Downloads are a great new way to buy games, but, I imagine you are a bit like me....that boxed copy is always more appealing, if ecologically questionable. So, I'm going to be printing, packing and posting like the old days. Thankfully, I've got a new Post Office now. The original Dark Fall days were hysterical. I'd be queuing in the shop, along with people getting benefits, paying bills and ordering new passports with my arms packed full of postage bags! I was sending over 100 packets, some days. The Post Office hated me. Absolutely hated me. I think I must have been the only person who actually 'posted' things in that shop. How mad is that?! But, this time round, the lovely ladies at Looe Post Office will be helping me.

They loved sending that first run of Barrow Hill, a couple of years back, so are all set for my new venture. Just, please, please, don't get too annoyed if there's a fingerprint on the game box, or the post takes a day or two more than expected. Think of me, with straining arms, standing in the little ol'Looe Post Office...in the heat of summer, posting out the new versions. Perhaps I called it 'Pins & Needles' for that reason! Ha ha!

Back again soon....

Jonathan

P.s. Spread the news....a third Dark Fall game IS coming....I'm dead excited about this one, it's going to be ghoulish and ghastly!

P.p.s. I won an award at AdventureGamers.Com. An 'Aggie', they are called. For Best Setting, in TLC. Great news!

Treasure Island

2009-02-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

Thank you to June for reminding me that I haven't told the Looe Island treasure map story. So, here goes...

There's an old story, about the island, that suggests a genuine 'treasure' map popped up in America, several decades ago. It was sold at auction, to a collector, who correctly presumed that the map must be of a 'real' island, so made efforts to find it. He eventually made his way to Cornwall, and found St.George's Island (Looe Island to locals). There was a definite X on the map, so he brought in a team to dig that area...near where Island House stands now (as seen in my Island video). Digging down, they found a huge stone, on its side. Lifting the stone, which took some effort, revealed a small hollow underneath, as if something was once stored there! But, sadly, the contents had long since gone...

...or so people thought, for many decades thereafter. But. It turns out that the stone IS the likely treasure of St.George's Island. It is an ancient stone, which was purposely buried by the ancient inhabitants of a small settlement, which once crowned the hill. Obviously, a stone is stone, no matter how many archaeologists and New Age Druids try to convince otherwise...but, there is the tantalising theory that the stone may have special properties (radioactive, Radon or magnetic etc etc) which would have drawn pagan pilgrims to the Island to marvel or worship the stone. The earth underneath the stone was in-situ, according to Time Team...which means it was an undisturbed layer. In other words, the stone was supposed to be there, and had definitely been placed there by mankind.

There is a similar stone, (in scale and material), on the opposite side of the Island, which is also seen in the video (Emma Harry is looking at it, bemused). Is the Island some long forgotten, and ignored, ancient site of archaeological wonders? If so, how many other 'megalithic' wonders may lurk beneath the surface. And if that doesn't pique your interest, consider the fact that a large cavern exists on the west side of the island...which is large enough to fit a small galleon, and extends into the hillside...via a series of passages and tunnels. The Island has a genuine history of smuggling, pirates and nautical naughtiness. Treasure Island, The Goonies and Pirates of the Caribbean have nothing on Looe Island! So, if you are ever down this way, I highly recommend a visit.

Jonathan

P.s. I have big news to announce this next week. I've been rather quiet of late, but it's almost time to start shouting news from the rooftops!

Halloween Horrors, Time Travel Phones, Fire and Pigeon Famine.

2008-11-03T13:11:00.000-08:00

Crikey, what a month! It's been a while since I jotted down any blog entries, so I'll dig through the murky cupboard, that I call my memories, and dig out some news from Gorgeous Cornwall and the Darkling Room.

Fire!

Blaze Rips Through Harbour Town

Arsonists destroyed some of Looe's (rather ugly) fishing huts, a few days ago. I was playing a shooter on the PS2, at the time, and only noticed the whizzes, bangs and explosions during a level load. Ha ha! I had been impressed by the game soundtrack, up until that point! So, taking a look outside, it was alarming to see a huge blaze making its way down the Quay Side. I grabbed the camera, and rushed out to get some pics and video.

It was a nasty blaze too; several propane gas cylinders went up, creating (what I can only describe as) a huge Bunsen Burner in the sky! The heat was rather intense, and the flames threatened to spread to the nearby restaurants, pubs and homes. (I was very worried. I'd booked my Christmas Day lunch in one of them!) Anyway. The fire crew from Looe were soon on the scene, and the flames were extinguished. Watching the gas-masked figures wander among the smoke shrouded buildings was incredibly atmospheric. Like something out of the Blitz. Some of my photos made in into the morning papers, which was nice. Click the image above for the article, and I've uploaded a video to YouTube, for pyro-fans. Actually, I can't joke too much, as there's been another fire...just outside town...so, perhaps Looe has a resident arsonist?

Dark Fall III Ideas

Game news; Dark Fall III progresses in ways which surprise even me. There's a real creepy feeling to many of the locations, which comes from a subtle, and specific use of sound and lighting (or lack of lighting). Dig out those torches, flash lights and matches, as the next game is as black as a November night. The games are called Dark Fall, after all. Lots of time travel elements too, which I love. Although, the inspiration can come from surprising places, and events...

...I dropped my mobile, the other day, while sneaking through the back streets of town. Blasted thing now has a fatally cracked LCD screen. I've got a picture of Talland Bay Church, as a 'wallpaper', for some strange reason. Some will know the place from The Lost Crown. It was Ulcombe Church. Weird thing is, each facet of the LCD has turned a different colour , or tone. There's a sepia section, a black and white section and a garish, full-colour section. The effect is pretty strange, and illustrates something that I've always been interested in; fractured time. Locations which have no fixed time period. An obvious example, from the game fiction, would be somewhere like Dowerton Hotel, from Dark Fall 1. Is the place firmly based in the 2000's, (when the fiction was set), or do certain rooms remain operational from the 1940's? Not so much a haunted location, more of a time-slip, in which the player may appear ghost-like to the long dead game characters.

Some paranormal enthusiasts have theorised that haunted locations do not have ghosts; instead, we see through cracks in time, and catch glimpses of people going about their everyday business, oblivious to our observations. It would explain why some ghosts appear to walk through doors, or walls, and ignore the shrieks of those who see them, or the persistent questions of the celebratory psychic. Do we also appear to those in the past? As gods, angels or demons? We must look as strange to the people of the past, as they do to us. Maybe even more so... for an interest in ghosts and the paranormal is fashionable, right now, whereas you could be burnt alive for such visions during the nastier periods of history.

As a theory it is an exciting one, and fits the Dark Fall mould. The first character you meet, in that train tunnel in Dark Fall 1, is unsure which one of the two of you should be there! It works particularly well in old locations, which haven't 'moved on' for some time. The old personalities of the place have yet to be replaced by newer, modern personalities. It might explain why old locations seem to boast more impressive paranormal events, rather than the local supermarket, or bus stop. But, we should always keep in mind what once stood on that location, long before the supermarket. Great Britain is a great place to explore those themes, given how tiny the place is, in comparison to the landmass of mainland Europe or the US. Virtually the whole landscape of Britain has been moulded and changed by human behaviour. Even vast, wild areas like the moors, or the Lake District are, essentially, unnatural.
People have been there. Lived there and died there. That means, to some extent, that the whole Island could be haunted by those who went before. Which brings me to Halloween...

Local Interest

It looks like Halloween stirred up some local interest in The Lost Crown! Great stuff. It did seem a bit of shame that the county had ignored the games release, back in July. Especially given the obvious, and vital, role played by Cornwall, in the games inspiration and creation. So, it was great to answer a few questions, and see the game appear in the press. Simon Parker, of The Western Morning News was the most interested. He really had no idea that adventure games existed. Like many non-gamers, he presumed it was all knockers, cars, nazis and killing. (Well, ahem, we do play quite a few of those, don't we!) So, I was more than happy to witter on about adventure games for an hour or so, and put the record straight. The finished article is good fun, although I'm not sure all my quotes are my own! No matter, the result was several emails from local people, looking to purchase the game, or sell it in their stores. Excellent. There will now be a local stockist for The Lost Crown based in Polperro...the village which started it all. About time too!

A second article appeared in, the wonderfully titled, The Cornish Guardian. Makes it sound like an old Celtic god, don't you think? It's a nice concise article (again, Click the image), written by a Looe-vian, the daughter of our local ferryman. Which was nice. A few people have stopped me in the street, to say 'well done', which I'm not too proud to say is a marvellous experience. It's great to know you are liked by your local community, especially when you rely on them for inspiration! I'm still hiding from the 'real' Mr.Gruel though...dreading the day when someone tells him about my game. He really is like him, you know. The other day, I watched him tell his little spanial dog that it was "far too cold and wet to play outside today...no, no, no...you won't change my mind, little one...far too wet and cold for you!". Problem was, the spanial dog was a ceramic statue! It's a genuine antique. And there's Mr.Gruel chatting away to it. Creepy!

Also, thanks to Richard Clark, for pointing out a genuine 'Missing Cats Mystery'. Over 50 moggies have vanished! No remains have been found, but some collars have been located. Exactly the same MO as Mr.Gruel.

Here's the news item:

The RSPCA is investigating the mysterious disappearance of a large number of cats in a town dubbed the Purr-muda Triangle.

More than 40 pet cats are reported to have vanished from homes in Stourbridge, West Midlands, over the last eight years.

The RSPCA has been investigating the disappearances but said to date, no cat remains had been found.

MISSING CATS: News Item

HALLOWEEN; A Sub-Urban Nightmare!

This Haunted Land were invited to investigate an unusual location, this year. By unusual I mean mundane; a suburban house, built in the 1980's. Obviously, it's not the most traditional of ghostly locations, and I was quite prepared for disappointment. How silly of me.

It was great to investigate something a bit different, to be honest. THL fans will know that I love haunted forests, Inns and castles...but, this was a bit quirky. A poltergeist case in Snores-ville. A small, pleasant cul-de-sac of houses, built in the early 80's, which looks immaculate (read: Boring) and totally safe; a haven for families, the elderly and first time buyers. So, you can image my surprise to hear from a young family, who were honestly claiming that their lives were being terrorised by a poltergeist.

Many of you will be familiar with films such as Urban Ghost Story, or Poltergeist itself, when it comes to cases such as this one. Paranormal activity is not unheard of, in fact and fiction, in the safe zone of suburbia. So, the opportunity to investigate the activity was a brilliant one, and will be written up for THL in the near future. I can't say what happened, just yet, but you will notice that we are still alive, and news of 'Ghosts Are Real' has yet to appear in the tabloids...so, there were no major revelations. But, there was enough to inspire, scare and shock, so watch this space. Much of the recorded material was uploaded directly from our mobile unit, which got me thinking...what would be needed to do a 'live broadcast'. I've always loved the idea of the live paranormal investigation, ever since being spooked by GhostWatch, back in the 90's.

GhostWatch was a TV show, a screenplay, created to fool the audience into thinking they were watching a genuine investigation, which goes horribly wrong (or horribly 'right', if the intention was to find ghosts), and broadcast to a gullible public on BBC1. At primetime! Great stuff. Anyway. It stayed with me, throughout my teens, and twenties, and was there, in the back of my mind, when creating the characters of Polly White and Nigel Danvers, for Dark Fall 1. I think they were supposed to do a 'Live' radio broadcast on the night of the event (April 27th), but fail to do so for reasons made clear in the fiction. It's a shame they didn't get to make that broadcast, as I would have loved to hear it. I think an audio-only GhostHunt could be quite chilling...far more effective than the pompous, studio excesses of MostHaunted, which are more about ego than supernature. Don't get me wrong, I do find MostHaunted entertaining, but I gave up hoping to see paranormal evidence a long time ago...right about the same time as their 'resident sceptic' started making money from the MostHaunted Ghost-Hunting Board Game, and other such merchandising. (Ooops, sounds like envy!...moving swiftly on). Anyway. Again. I do like the idea of doing a 'Live' broadcast, for next Halloween. It could be an audio Stream, via the internet, or even a full colour, cast of thousands, TV production....it all depends on the interest, the case and practicality. If anyone wants to get involved, swap some ideas, or Star in a Halloween Haunted Broadcast for Darkling Room then please get writing. I'm really excited about it, so I'm hoping something happens. The Suburban investigation, which I'll call The Hill View Haunting' generated some great clips (both audio and visual) and features several members of the team, and the owners of the locations. It could have made really interesting viewing...so, anything is possible.

Quite a few visitors

I finally got round to placing a 'Hit Counter' on the Darkling Room website. To do so meant looking up, via my domain server, how many unique visitors I've had so far. Over a million and a half! That's crazy. I had no idea it was that many. I thought it would be in the 10's of thousands, based on interest in the games, but never expected that kind of figure. It really blew my socks off...and made me feel guilty for not updating the pages more often. It's something I will be looking into. But, a million and a half...can't believe that!

Pigeon Friends

Lastly, just a quick shout to my pigeon buddies, here on the Quay Side in Looe. There's two of them, and I promised I'd say 'hello', in pigeon language, so here goes...

"Cooo, coo, coooooo"

They've been pecking at my window, and nibbling my sandwich crusts, for over three seasons. They arn't half plump now! Thing is, they now know when I'm indoors...even with the blind down! How to they know these things? Can they smell me? Hear me?

Whenever I creep into the room, there's this mad pecking and scraping at the window, like a small Gremlin trying to ravage an unsuspecting Mogwai. With me being Mogwai, thank you very much. It makes me feel like a Zoo animal...a bit...a tiny bit...'cos I sit here in the dark, with the blinds drawn, hoping that the creatures don't come to watch me all day...what happened? When did the tables turn? What am I to do? I think they even have chicks now, in the roof. They'll be more of them soon... many more. I'm gonna need a bigger boat....

See you again soon. JB.

Dark Fall III, Church Ghosts and The Ancient Cult of Lamanna.

2008-09-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd drop by, with an update, about life down here in creepy Cornwall...

Dark Fall III:

It's been a busy early Autumn, with work on Dark Fall III coming together; the screenplay received a raking over, to concentrate the story, and create a spookier atmosphere. So far, tone-wise, the third game is remarkably similar to Dark Fall; a non-linear ghost story with a beginning, a middle and an end, which is something that's hard to pull off. I love hearing from gamers, with tales of how they progressed through the games, as it gets me thinking "hmm, I never thought they'd try that!". It's great. I can only create the setting, the stage as it were, and add a few pointers here and there, but it is the player who imagines all the ghastly ghouls, ghosts and phantoms hidden in the shadows.I guess that was the strength of Dark Fall 1, the lack of visible activity and film soundtrack...less is more, is the well used phrase that springs to mind. I love all those old Ghost Story for Christmas films, like The Signalman, or A Warning to the Curious, where it seems to take an age for anything to actually happen, but you feel, throughout the film, that something could happen at any moment. That's a brilliant way to hook the player...to have them wondering what is about to happen, rather than have them constantly under threat, being chased, or slimed by the monsters....and, speaking of monsters, there is one...in Dark Fall III...well, maybe not a monster, more of a creature. A supernatural creature.

The idea came about after reading a local science report, on deformations and evolutionary jumps in intensively farmed cattle. Really disturbing. I'm just glad there's enough organic meat on offer. Anyway. There's going to be some gore, in DFIII. Not a lot, and certainly nothing that will disgust people, but the story warrants a splash of the red stuff here and there. (Spoiler Warning) I'm sailing close to a Mature rating, but hope to keep things TEEN...like the previous games. The Lost Crown nearly had an 18 certificate stamped all over it, In Britain. Cause? Not for the cat deaths, corpses or scares...it was the phrase "piss off". How bizarre is that. I seem to remember Ron Weasely uttering the same phrase in the last two Harry Potters...and they didn't get an 18 certificate. It's barmy! I'm all for game developers monitoring their own content, and being responsible, but why should games be treated any differently to films?! It's all those stupid "Games Make Kids Kill Each Other" headlines, touted by the rubbish tabloid media. So, I'll have to watch it, with DFIII, as I like my TEEN rating. I don't want to exclude my favorite audience. I like to think I would have played my games, back in the late 70's, while watching those old Children's Film Foundation features about old mine shafts, haunted church yards, castles and strange goings on. I do honestly believe that my games are very similar in tone to those old kids films, which were much more unusual and creepy than the wet efforts of today...Haunted Mansion anyone? Pah!

Films:

There are a few more quirky films, scattered about online; A Return to Ulcombe is a short film exploring some of Talland Bay's highlights, once again. This film is notable for the presence of none other than Emma Harry! Some of you will already know Emma, from her role in Matt Clark's 'Barrow Hill' horror game. But, Emma also performed three roles for The Lost Crown; Lucy Reubans, The Cave Siren and young Nancy Brewer. The latter was the ghost girl evacuee, trapped in Ulcombe Church. I chose to call the location Ulcombe, in reference to my birth place, which is the village of Ulcombe, in Kent. YouTube only has two videos with that reference (at present), one of mine, and the other is a prog-rock folk version of Greensleeves!

It was great to take Emma to the location, as seen in game, and get her to sit in 'Nancy's Pew'. Kind of spooky actually. Matt Clark joined us for the adventure, and tinkled a few tunes on the church piano...it was all rather 30's, darling! But, strangest thing, an uncanny atmosphere seemed to fill the church when he played that horrible organ tune, by Nathanial Ager. Matt invented that tune, for The Lost Crown, so thought it would be fun to hear it in the 'real' location. Bad idea. After a few bars, he stopped playing, convinced that he'd seen the piano keys all shift sideways, by half an inch. Which is, or should be, impossible! But, Emma saw it too. I was filming at the time, down the nave of the church...well, I should say 'trying to film'...the focus on the camera was playing up. It just wouldn't sharpen up, on anything! Talland Bay is a lovely church, with a great atmosphere...but, just on that afternoon, it suddenly felt horribly isolated and dark. It's an ancient place, built upon on an existing pagan shrine, and boasts horrible tales about a Demon Hunting Priest (Reverend Richard Doidge, try Googling him). I'm sorry to say that we quit our interior filming, at that point, and made our way outside, to bask in the sun, and drink some bubbly. After a few sips we forgot about our strange encounter and enjoyed the late Summer atmosphere.

Later the same week, the three of us travelled over to St.George's Island, just off the coast from Looe. Matt had recently taken part in the Time Team dig on the Island, for Channel 4 television, and documented many aspects of the Dig. So, he was excited to point out where bodies, chapel walls and old relics were found by the hairy experts of Wessex Archaeology. It was fascinating stuff. There are theories that an ancient cult may have inhabited the island, worshipping the lamb, and guarded some spectacular artifact. The Island, at the time, was called Lamanna, believed to be a reference to the sacred Lamb. Head's were removed from bodies, before burial, and replaced with sheep's skulls...seriously. How bizarre is that! Mind you, Matt could have just made that up, for effect...there's no way of telling what goes on in a game developers head sometimes! Someone will have to remind me, sooner or later, to tell the story about the Looe Island Treasure Map. It's fascinating, as is the tale of the long fingered Island ghost and the spooky atmosphere exhibited by the Island's Victorian-era House. Anyway. I hope you enjoy the film. It was a pleasure to pick out some clips and pics, and orchestrate the soundtrack. I hope it captures some of the Island's unique atmosphere.

Speaking of soundtracks...I've already created several pieces for DFIII. I usually create the scenes first, and let them dictate what the place should sound like, but I'm trying something a little different, this time round. I listen to the soundtrack while building the rooms. It's great! The locations come together very quickly, and have a consistent look and feel. I must admit that it can get quite spooky, working alone, after dark. Speaking of which, the sun has just set over in West Looe, as I finish off this entry. The dusk has plunged the harbour into magenta hued twilight. It's gorgeous! The tide is in, the gulls are silent, and there's not a soul to be seen. I love living, and working here, at times like this. Cornwall has been a great source of inspiration and looked after me well, so far. So, it's a pleasure to feature the place in my games...which, I hope to do some some years to come.

Jonathan

Big British Lost Crown Launch! Game in Stores!

2008-07-31T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Ghost-Hunting Adventure finally arrived on the 18th, when The Lost Crown finally made its way to stores in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is wonderful to finally have it in Britain, given that the game is, without doubt, the most 'English' game ever made; crumpets, miserable vicars, pasties and a none existent train service help cement that fact.

The box art looks great, (thanks Akella!), and Lighthouse have done a super job getting the game recognised outside of the USA. The advertising is super, bold and eye catching; like this Ad in the front cover of The Fortean Times. It was weird opening the mag to find the game staring back at me! I just hope the game pleases those that have been waiting...patiently. Price-wise, the game is a bargain at around £15! 36+ hours of gameplay! Amazon, Play and Game have stock (I've heard its sold out on Amazon 3 times over) so what are you waiting for?

Don't forget to post a review, post play, on Amazon, Play or Game; if you enjoy the game DO say so, as for every "I liked this game" there's some idiot who states that the game will "ruin your life, burn down your house, and eat your cat". I suspect someone like my mother is behind those reviews! :-) ...

It's been a while since I posted a blog. I would love to say I've been busy with the next game (more on that in a bit), but I can't. I went on a cruise! The Carnival Splendor, a huge US 'Fun Ship', on its inaugural voyage. Some of the press are saying its the biggest cruise ship in the world, which I can believe, having travelled on the beast, and got lost in its endless corridors, bars, casinos, restaurants, discos, decks...etc etc...you get the picture. But. First voyage, massive ship, elegant staterooms...hmmm...anyone else thinking Titanic?! They even played the film theme in the Piano bars! There's nothing like asking for trouble, is there?! Good news is, it didn't sink. Phew. There are few Icebergs in Dover, so i think we were safe. Mind you, it didn't stop me wandering the ship, after midnight, looking for Penny Pringle and Vlad. (Titanic: Adventure out of Time characters). There are photos in my 'pics' area, if anyone is interested...some are nice, some are horrid. Be warned, there's a nasty pic of me with a mouth full of hot dog. Not good. Or lady-like.

Lastly, I am working on a new game. Yes. And, it's going to be super. I love the setting (new), the established characters and the threat. It's not as quirky as The Lost Crown, but will use some of the elements created for that game. Those who know my previous games will recognise many plot threads, with some loose strands being tied up. As far as titles go, the game will be called Dark Fall III, which is exciting...to continue the series. The subtitle gives LOADS away, so I'll hang on to that for a bit. In the mean time, rest assured in the knowledge that I am working, very hard, and making the best game I possibly can. It will be point and click, mouse only, with loads of puzzles (of every kind), made for XP and Vista, with adventure fans in mind.

The setting is horribly spooky (I'm surprised the location hasn't been used before), and really does provide a perfect stage on which to tell a ghost story; with lots of stony passages, dark pinewoods and long forgotten hallways. Horror-wise, this game will scare people; I'm constantly leafing through the game document (which is a bit like a walkthrough, for me to keep on top of the story) and adding "more creepiness here" and "needs a jolt here". If you found the crypt ghost or Ager Brothers spooky you may wish to start on breathing techniques now. In all honesty, I love spooky games, and want to make the next Dark Fall as weird and wonderful as possible. Fingers crossed, you should be playing the game by this time next year. I'm aiming for dark nights, as always, but we'll see how it goes. Deadlines have a way of flying past, at an alarming rate. But, one thing is for sure, I will be continuing the series (as its called) with this next game, with more to follow. The Dark Fall is coming...again...and it will know your name...

Get out in the sun!

Jonathan

Lucky Thirteen! The Lost Crown in the top 20.

2008-07-31T09:09:00.000-07:00

Great news, sent to me via Lighthouse Interactive; The Lost Crown has entered the UK PC Games chart at number 13! With medieval II on one side, and the massive Crysis on the other. I am thrilled by the news. I hoped the game would get some recognition in Britain, but I didn't expect it to be a smash hit.

The chart can be viewed at Chart Track.

Also, I did hear that my blog has been posted on some of the game forums, following my news of the next game. I hope people are excited, as I know the DF games have quite a following. It'll be great to get back to the series, as I have big plans for it. It is always waiting...

Lastly, the weather is amazing this week! The sun has finally remembered what season it is, so I've been out making plans in the church yard at Talland, and from deep within the Kilminorth Woods. It's so nice to get away from the glare of the LCD, and make some notes on paper. It reminds me of the old days, scribbling notes, for Dark Fall, on my waiters note pad. I pretty much thought up the whole game while serving sushi in Central London. How things have changed!

The nice thing about making/keeping paper notes is the chance to rediscover them, years from now. A bit like that feeling you get when you open an old game box, stuffed full of old gameplay notes and odd doodles. They can be priceless! I found an A4 the other day, waffling on about "Seven Sacrifices for the soul"...I have no idea which game it refers to, but it made interesting reading. Any strangers finding those scraps would think me utterly insane!

Jonathan

P.s. If anyone is reading my blog; do post a comment, as I'd love to get feedback, now and then.

July 08: Treasure Hunt, Lost Fawn, Saxton is real!

2008-07-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

The treasure hunt is up and running! The clues are devious, the prizes are great and the sun is shining. So, if you are in the Looe area, before Thursday, get yourself an entry form from the Tourist Information Centre, The Salutation, The Jolly Sailor or the Looe Lifeboat Station. All proceeds go to charity.

Matt and I had a fun old time getting the treasure hunt to work, while sneaking about town to put posters up. There should be a pic of one, above or below this text. If the event is a success – more than 10 people play! - we will think about doing another one, for next summer. So, anyone looking to help out, drop me a line.

Escaping town, (which is packed full of chip scoffing tourists right now), we took a stroll up to Waylands Fayre, yesterday afternoon. The event consisted of the same old Cornish weirdness (displays of old tractors, period motorbikes and homemade steam engines), but the trip was made worthwhile by the excellent 'Boot Fair' which runs alongside. Boot Fairs are a little like mobile Garage Sales. People pile there car boot (trunk) with tatty wonders, and try and flog them to people on hot summer days. They did quite well out of me…in all honesty…I came away with two new (shrink wrapped) Doctor Who dvds (Edge of Destruction and The Aztecs, should anyone be wondering), a collection of ghost-stories (my favourite) and four Beatrix Potter books, (always handy as gifts). That was the normal items…here come the strange ones!

Matt managed to find two bright blue Kolorkins, which he tells me are highly collectable teddies. I also bought, for 50p, a strange old Bakelite record (from the 30's I think), called English Country Dance. It's got one track, the spookily titled 'Black Nag'. I half expect, upon play, to hear the sounds of the Wayland Fayre from decades past…interrupted by the sound of the Black Nag, as it swoops from the skies to terrorise the Fayre. Much screaming and horror would follow.

On a similar note, I also spotted this rather spooky looking doll. Well, I think it's a doll. It appears to be a fawn, with a sad, glacial expression, and broken ankles. I really felt quite sorry for the poor little thing.

It was just lying there, with his piggybank friend, waiting for someone to rescue him. I feel a bit guilty now. But, where on earth would you put such a thing. Upon eying the creature, Matt mentioned that it looked like something that should be walled up in an old house. He is referring to the old custom of bricking up small holes with dolls, effigies and trinkets as protection against evil forces. Utter nonsense of course, but I could certainly see his point. I just hope someone takes pity on the poor fellow, and he goes to a good home. There's something rather tragic about a lame fawn with broken hooves.

Lastly, I'll make a quick mention of the excellent 'promotional postcards' sent out to magazines and websites, for The Lost Crown. Lighthouse have a done a super job of creating 'fake' Saxton postcards, with a note from Nigel on the reverse. The first mentions Nigel's first impressions of Harbour Cottage.

The second is more intriguing, and is distressed to suggest the postcard has travelled through time, or been in the system for decades. Of course, to those who have finished the game, all those ideas tie in with the gameplay, which is great. Large images of the postcards are in my pics area (Work Folder on MySpace), and the reverse image is also available...with Nigel's cryptic messages.

It's good to see a publisher getting the promotions right, for once, with some snappy ideas. It was a strange experience to receive the postcard through the post…from somewhere dreamt up by my own imagination! Surreal.

Jonathan