Ask/Show HN: Heist8080: A 10-player museum heist for Ouya console

9 points by nimblegorilla ↗ HN
Hi Everyone,

I'm developing a game for the OUYA console. More information about the game is here: http://heist8080.com

I'm trying to create a party game centered around museum art heists that supports at least 10 players in the same room. Everyone connects to the console via a smartphone, tablet, or other web browser.

I think there are three ways people could connect to the OUYA console

1) Connect via local network directly to the IP address of the OUYA

2) Download a native android/iOS app that connects to the console via bluetooth

3) Connect to an external site like heist808.com and enter a passcode to join an existing game

I feel like each choice has different advantages. #1 is the easiest from a development standpoint, but I think it is harder for non-technical users to make sure their devices are on the right local area network (as well as typing in a crazy IP address URL). #2 seems like I can provide the best UI experience, but it requires more development work as well as forcing users to install a special app on their phones. #3 seems like a nice way to avoid some of the setup frustrations for new users, but it requires that the OUYA has an internet connection every time people want to play.

Has anyone else developed a similar game or app? I'm wondering what sort of interface people prefer in these situations. Any advice or ideas is greatly appreciated!

Thanks, Nate

I also submitted it to the OUYACreate gamejam competition and would also appreciate anyone that likes this idea to help upvote my submission: http://killscreendaily.com/create/video.php?submissionID=189

2 comments

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The first thing I'd do is prototype the game out on paper. I'm serious. That will inform you about data structures and interface options.
The closest thing that comes to mind is Artemis (it's a spaceship bridge simulator where various people play stations on something akin to Star Trek's Enterprise). They had a PC version and now an iOS version as well.

Based on their manual they use a separate server and everyone hooks a native app to that. So they effectively went with option two.