The Genesis Project
Description
The Genesis Project is an action-RPG game, created by fans of the webcomic Homestuck. It is a recreation of the fictional video game "Sburb", which features heavily in the webcomic's plot. The Genesis Project's visual style mimics that of Homestuck.
The Genesis Project is meant primarily for multiplayer, with a number of players gathering together for a single game session; once a game session is started, no new players may join.
At the beginning of each session, players cannot interact with each other directly, save for chatting; instead, each player is initially confined to their individual house map. Each player character's first task is to obtain a CD with the Sburb game, and run it on their home computer. Once this is done, the player is able to magically rearrange and decorate the house of the next player in line, via an isometric interface similar to The Sims. The builder can also deploy special machines, which, when used in the right sequence, allow the other player to transport their house into "The Medium", a fantasy world. The builder's next task is to assemble a tall structure atop the other player's house, which will allow that player to reach a hovering portal to another realm. After going through their portals, players can meet, and even visit each others' houses. The players' ultimate goal (as of version 0.5.0) is to defeat a boss known as the Lich Queen, located in a dungeon.
A single-player mode is also available; the gameplay remains similar, but the player rearranges their own house instead of that of another player.
Similarly to most role-playing games, players have numerical attributes that affect their combat prowess. They can gain levels by fighting monsters that roam the Medium, and they gain special abilities as they level up. Weapons and equipment can be found around the player's house, bought at shops, or created through a special process known as Alchemization. By utilizing a complex punchcard-based system, a player can combine two items into one, creating unique objects. "Alchemizing" objects and building structures both require "Grist", a resource which can be obtained by killing monsters.
