Quick Smith Playtesting Insights from Ipswich Gamescom 2023

At this year's Ipswich Gamescom, hosted by Game Anglia, Elemental Glyph Studios showcased our newest prototype: Quick Smith. Developed over a mere 8 weeks, this early model was itching for player interaction to guide our next development steps.

About Quick Smith:

Quick Smith blends the thrill of roguelike management with the narrative of an apprentice blacksmith's journey. Many compare its vibe to popular titles like Overcooked and Plate Up. Players hustle against time, mining ores and chopping wood to forge weapons for eager customers. A standout feature is the dynamic research tree, paving the way for gameplay upgrades. Every weapon sale earns coins, empowering players to unlock exciting shop upgrades.

Despite being held post-heatwave amidst a sudden downpour, Ipswich Gamescom drew a significant crowd. Interestingly, with the event falling during the Summer break, our booth attracted many young gamers. While Quick Smith wasn't initially tailored for kids, their interactions spotlighted some UI and tutorial areas for enhancement. Ambient brightness also posed a slight challenge, suggesting potential in-game lighting tweaks.

While we did guide many players through gameplay – an aspect we're eager to streamline with our tutorial – the event was invaluable. Engaging with gamers, absorbing their likes and critiques, has provided a wellspring of feedback. These insights are fuel for refining Quick Smith, ensuring a more intuitive and immersive experience for all.

Conclusion:

Ipswich Gamescom was a milestone for Elemental Glyph Studios and Quick Smith. Connecting with our community, gleaning feedback, and sharing our design journey enriched our development path. Watch this space as Quick Smith evolves, and join us at future gaming events. We'd love to see you there!