Devlog

Some inspirations behind Solen

In this post, I will discuss the various inspirations behind our game 'Solen' and how they come together.

// GAMEPLAY //

The Sims 2 DS

The similarities between The Sims 2 DS and Solen include hotel management and responding to guest requests (in our case, spirits). Players will perform maintenance tasks like cleaning and repairs, as well as fulfill requests by opening a restaurant to cook dishes or gathering specific items for spirits – this means that during the exploration phase, players must collect items by foraging, fishing, gardening, and more.

We also aim to create a bizarre universe (but less eerie) with quirky characters, unexpected quests, and an investigative aspect featuring puzzles and mysteries to uncover both outdoors and within the hotel.

Dave the Diver

The similarity between Dave the Diver and Solen is the way each day is divided into distinct phases, each with its own gameplay: a management phase, an exploration/investigation phase, and a social phase.

// NARRATIVE //

Dredge

The similarities between Dredge and Solen are that the player embodies a newcomer in a small town where strange things happen, and they must find their place by helping the locals. Players also need to explore and unlock hidden areas to advance the storyline. The difference is that our game will have a less sinister tone, leaning more toward a quirky and spooky vibe, reminiscent of Scooby-Doo.

Golden Gold

Without giving too much away, the similarities between Golden Gold and Solen lie in the setting: a quiet coastal town whose ordinary life is disrupted by a greater, uncontrollable force.