Development

The project started in 2019 after I played Kingdome Come Deliverance a computer game released in 2018 by War Horse studios. They are a Czech developer that did something amazing with Kingdom Come Deliverance. They created a game based on a real location and time period with incredible graphics and story. This lead me to start building one or two buildings from Hereford and after that I realised the time scales involved wouldn't be out of this world for a single developer to make a town the size of Hereford on his own. Hereford city is now complete along with a large amount of the countryside. For me I wanted Hereford to feel as rich and unique as possible so all building are one off's with full interiors. This has given the city a good character and avoids repetition.

The total time I have spent so far developing is in the region of 4000 hours. This is set to continue as I have many things I am keen to complete next year.

Funding

The project is solely funded through me and what money I can spare. The total amount spent is around £4000. Sometimes I find buying assets from the Unreal marketplace helps to kickstart me into building up larger libraries of assets (By assets i mean items in the game such as furniture or trees.

Hardware and Software

The project is being built on a modern PC with good hardware. The key components for a machine built for game development are RAM and graphics card capability. While making the game is is easy for the RAM to reach over 32GB of allocation. Software used are Unreal Engine 4 for the game engine. 3Ds Max and Blender for all modelling and animation work. Substance Painter for texturing. Some other ancillary program's like Bitmap to material and Audacity are helpful.

Resources

Much of my research has been done online through local history webistes and council resources. I have visited and photographed locations in and around Hereford.

Scope of Project

It looks as though the art will be completed in 2-3 years from now.That would be a huge milestone for me, knowing that everything is in place for then animation and gameplay mechanics to start progressing. It has been mentioned that adding Ledbury or even Gloucester could be good, it would be indeed great to have but the first step is Hereford and the 4km2 map that surrounds it.

Game Features

Explore a 4km2 Game World

At the center of the game world is Hereford city with its great 8 meter wall and bastions. You are free to go in any direction you want out of the city. Whitecross is towards the West and is a short horse ride away. If you travel North you can see Widemarsh with the Conningsby hospital on the right. The landscape is dotted with apple orchards and small farms, with many locations derived from historic information.

Interactable Map with Many activites to do

As you travel you can interact with doors to enter into one of 200 unique buildings all with their own interior layout. When you're inside you can light candles or watch the townfolk turn them on as it gets dark. Farm and manage your own farm, bringing meat or to the local butcher on Butchers Row and get payed for your troubles.Alternatively you can take your carefully grown grain to the water powered mills and ensure the city will make it through the winter. As always it wouldnt be Hereford without cider, pick your apples and crush them in presses dotted throughout the land.

Explore 250 Unique Buildings / Points of Interest

Look back in time at how butchers, bakers and blacksmiths places of work might have functioned and engage with helping them on quests. Collect landmarks and unlock special abilities.

Ride your Own Horse through a large Open World

Look out from the top of Hereford castle and decide where you want to go next, if you can see it you can go there. You will have a mount to ride and a dog to keep you company.

Learn Artisan Trades

As Gwen starts to improve her memory she finds that learning, doing and creating are what makes her feel strong. Engage in crafting mini games and collect all the resources nessesary to craft that high quality item.

Talk To Characters and Learn Their Story

Talk to the people of Hereford and they might just let you in on a couple of secrets. We aim to have voice acted characters using local Herefordian talent.

Succulents chambray

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Biodiesel squid

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raclette taxidermy

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freegan aesthetic

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taiyaki vegan

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disrupt street

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humblebrag brunch

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