Chicago’s Verge Game Studio has recently launched Kickstarter campaign for their latest title — a gravity-centric space game called MaK that gives players the freedom to build (and destroy) their own creations in a sandbox environment.
In a post-Minecraft gaming world, it seems like every new indie game is looking to capture the lightning in a bottle of Mojang’s blocky release from 2010. While Minecraft has taken many releases to bring some kind of main objective to the free form gameplay, MaK is looking to have refined gameplay goals right from the beginning that will include competitive modes like deathmatch in addition to creative modes that give players the freedom to run amok with their friends.
MaK’s gameplay primarily revolves around gravity mechanics. Players can use a grappling hook, similar in function to Just Cause 2’s chaotic mechanic, to propel themselves or transport lighter objects. Action plays out on the surface of a variety of small interstellar planets that each have gravitational fields of their own that affect both players and objects. Players can combine a selection of cubes to forge more complex mechanical creations and traps for their fellow gamers.
Much like Minecraft’s development, the VGS team will allow backers access to the closed beta and take player feedback to help shape what the title will ultimately become upon release. Backers can get a DRM-free digital copy of the game for as little as a $15 pledge or a swag-filled package for $150 and up. The studio is hoping to raise $230,000 to fuel the development of the sandbox space title, which currently has more than $12,000 and nearly a full month left in its run.
“Kickstarter’s really great because it gives us the opportunity to take a chance on this project that we’re all really passionate about and strike out in new directions without a publisher micromanaging the creative process,” said MaK game designer Sebastian Patric. “We’re confident that with your support and feedback, we’ll create an experience that you’ll enjoy playing as much as we enjoy making.”
The final release of the game will ship with features like online multiplayer, achievements, character customization, and even a built-in YouTube integration, with more features and modes added depending on how much funding VGS is able to raise through the Kickstarter campaign. Check out the campaign page to find out more about the creative space game and all of VGS’ affordable offerings for project supporters.