Chat with the Developers of Unreal Championship
January 29, 2003 Update: Transcript added
If Unreal Championshipis your game, you won't want to miss this opportunity to chat live with the masterminds behind the smash hit. Pick the brains of four guys from development house Digital Extremes.
Oh, ruin! Your tardiness has become your undoing! (You've missed the chat.) Don't be too downhearted, though, here's the transcript of the chat:
Unreal Championship Developer Chat
Guests:
Steve Sinclair – Lead Programmer
Dave Ewing – Lead Level Designer
Pancho Eekels – Lead Designer
James Schmalz – Founder and Creative Director
Ya-Bing (Moderator – Xbox Live):
Hey all! Welcome to the Xbox Live Unreal Developer Chat. Digital Extremes has been gracious enough to join us today from London, Ontario and Toronto. Let's say hi to our guests... Here's some background information about them.
Steve Sinclair – Lead Programmer
Steve decided he wanted to make games when he first played Quake. He had only high school programming skills, so he spent a year in his basement writing stuff on his own. That got him started on the path that led to becoming lead programmer for Unreal Championship. He's been programming for a decade, nearly four years of which have been at Digital Extremes. When Steve has a tough bug to solve, he likes to prance around in his office to the tender refrains of Black Sabbath's "Iron Man."
Alternate universe gig: Rock star
Best game: ICO
Best movie: Bladerunner
Best album: Radiohead, OK Computer
Desired super power: Ability to see the future
Would play him in a movie: John Cusack
Dave Ewing – Lead Level Designer
Fresh out of school five and a half years ago, Dave got a summer job at Digital Extremes. He fetched coffee, collected sound effects, and performed various other tasks. In fact, his nickname was "Useful Dave." When autumn rolled around, founder James Schmalz thought of Dave as so useful that he let him stay. He worked on sound effects on the first Unreal game, moved on to texture art, and then to level design. Dave confirms Steve's bug solving/prancing, but when asked to describe the prancing, says it's more like stomping.
Alternate universe gig: Historian
Best game: Total Annihilation
Best movie: The Usual Suspects
Best album: The Tragically Hip, Road Apples
Desired super power: Ability to fly
Would play him in a movie: Jeff Bridges
Pancho Eekels – Lead Designer
Pancho has been an avid gamer from way back when he played games on the Amiga computer. He worked as a dental technician for a while, and when business got slow and his boss laid him off, he decided to devote himself to his true calling and do freelance animation. He's been at Digital Extremes for six years now. His favorite cartoon character is Wile E. Coyote.
Alternate Universe Gig – Drummer for Ozric Tentacles
Best Game – Elite
Best Movie – Bladerunner
Best Album – Anything by Tom Waits or Ozric Tentacles
Desired Super Power – Invisibility
Who would play him in a movie – Robin Williams
James Schmalz – Founder and Creative Director
James started programming at the age of 12. His first game was an Ultima clone called Sorcery that he created on an Apple IIe computer. He received a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Waterloo, but made a name for himself creating shareware masterpieces like Epic Pinball. James founded Digital Extremes in 1993. Development on Unreal began in 1994, and the game was published by GT Interactive in 1998.
Ya-Bing (Moderator – Xbox Live)
Ok, that's all done. We're ready for questions!
James (Digital Extremes):
Hey... nice to be here. Let the questions roll. We will try to get to as many of them as we can.
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hi all, I'm Dave Ewing, the lead level designer for Digital Extremes. Glad to be here!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Nice to see you guys - thanks for enduring the history lesson! You guys rock, hopefully we can get to all your questions, and I can spread lies.
Starsfan11:
How long did it take to make the game?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey Starsfan11, UC took about 1.5 years to make
James (Digital Extremes):
As Dave said, it took about a year and a half.
chumley:
WHO IS UR FAVORITE CHARACTER/GUN? -
Steve (Digital Extremes):
I love Frostbite and the rocketzzzzz! A jugger is pure defensive goodness, and a good QB.
Latingangsta:
How many people worked UC?
James (Digital Extremes):
We had about 23 people at Digital Extremes working full time on UC.
Affliction:
What was your biggest hurdle making UC for the XBOX?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
The Live support! Lots of cool features to implement... bandwidth+voice was a challenge.
captian:
What's going to be on the 1st content download?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
There will be one CTF map in an outdoor Antalus-like setting and one DM map in a ocean laboratory setting
Latingangsta:
Do you think you made the shock rifle too powerful?
James (Digital Extremes):
No. When a person focuses on playing with one specific weapon, they become extremely proficient with it, so it may feel like the most powerful weapon to that player. But we spent along time making all the pretty much equal.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
What will we include in the Update? Fixes for Gameplay and stat exploits, new maps as Dave said... stuff to keep the play at a competitive level.
MrSelfDestruct:
When are you fixing the drop issue, when players get dropped from games in between matches
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Looks like its resolved now, it's in testing now to be sure
loconick:
How long have you had this job and what other games did you help create?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey Loconick, I've been working at DE for 4.5 years now and have worked on Unreal, UT, and UT2k3 along with UC.
Crowlos:
When could we play against pc players?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
I don't think this will happen anytime soon. There are too many things that we need to keep in mind for this to work.
MrSelfDestruct:
You said the drop issue is fixed. Is that in the patch, or right now?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
In the update... needs certification
Fluid:
Will there be an option to turn off Anti Alias?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Off by default in the update.
Jinn:
How do I make a dedicated server for Xbox live / UC?
James (Digital Extremes):
There is an option when you create a Live game to make it dedicated.
uc:
What are you're gamer tags?
James (Digital Extremes):
Mine is DigitalPariah... if you see me, feel free to kill me.
JAPZERO:
Do you see a sequel to unreal in Xbox's future
Steve (Digital Extremes):
That'd be sweet
[DBZ]FrayZ:
Quicker Frame rates available?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
In the update, yes.
Vyrticl:
Are you planning on adding vehicles to UC through a download?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Although at first we wanted to have vehicles in the game, this created too many issues that would take the focus from the real work that needed to be done on the game.
REDMAN_OC:
Will the Tag gun glitch be taken care of?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yep
smokedog420:
Are there going to be any non AA(auto aim)X servers added??
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Might be nice, we've improved this a bit for you guys, so you can see what hosts have AA off, and made sure any exploits were removed
Oliewud:
Will you be able to enable or disable auto-aim when hosting a server?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
If you AA is off in your profile, the server will be no AA.
NaRkOtiK:
Will the glitch on CTF - MAUL be taken care of? It's a major glitch which you can go under the board.
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey NaRkOtiK, yes that glitch is taken care of in the upcoming update.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
The really cool thing we've done is eliminate the really annoying load just to find out the server is full - this is fixed in the update. So before you load the server's map it reserves a spot for you.
[FXB]Jester:
Are you planning on making any new game types like Greed available for Download?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
There will be no new game types for UC. This would be a crazy challenge.
bob:
My birthday passed this December, and I'm considering buying XboxLive and UC with the remainder of my money. A lot of people are telling me just to get UT2003. Should I spend more money and get UC and Live, or just get UT2003?
James (Digital Extremes):
Even if you don't get UC, Xbox Live rocks,and will be even more fun as more games come out. As for UC versus UT2003, it comes down to your preferences. Check out the UT2003 demo and see if you can play UC on a friends Xbox or at the store and see which
chumley:
What do you guys like to eat?
James (Digital Extremes):
I'm eating sushi right now.
James (Digital Extremes):
and buttered bacon... mmmmm bacon.
MrSelfDestruct:
Is the patch going to be a mandatory update?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes
Mecrob:
Why are you avoiding hard questions?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Which?
[BRO]TheEpic:
Hard questions like lightning gun!!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Lightning rocks
Steve (Digital Extremes):
We're looking at reducing the auto aim on it... if you really want hardc0re, host no Auto aim...
brian:
Is there any plan for a custom soundtrack option download so that we can listen to our own music while playing?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Sorry no
syko:
Can you really kill that cow in Flux?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hehe... nope, he's just an innocent bystander
REDMAN_OC:
Will the Ripper be available for UC?
James (Digital Extremes):
The ripper was taken out because it was a very 'spammy' weapon. Too many kills were achieved by randomness. So, we took it out because of that.
[DBZ]FrayZ:
RELEASE DATE ON PATCH?....my moms is fat
Steve (Digital Extremes):
That's ok, she look healthy... soon - the update needs to cert!
TDOT:
Who decided to make the Frozen Cow?? I think that's sikk!
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Hehehe I like frozen cows! It is an inside joke that one day will be revealed to the masses. Stay tuned.
[SR]Legend:
Is there gonna be an option for auto-aim off in Optimatch?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Sorry, don't think this will happen - the server will have a special indicator though.
|TAB|OBSOLETE:
Will you add clan support? Like being able to enter in a clan tag, instead of having to make to make a new profile?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Wish we could, the profile name works though - we're only addressing really critical stuff.
MrSelfDestruct:
You said soon on the patch....how soon...days, weeks, months?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes
Steve (Digital Extremes):
sorry - if I even suggest a time, some will consider it a guarantee
Oliewud:
Will there be anymore Updates/Content available after this one??
James (Digital Extremes):
We have a second one in the works. After that we want to see how the community responds and what new things they would like to see added.
Tekneek:
What is the flying ram in the air in the pyramid BR level about?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
It's all about putting the fun in the game. It's a symbol. And it's supposed to be a goat actually. If you listen carefully, you can hear him scream.
starfox182:
Did you fix all the known glitches?
James (Digital Extremes):
Yes
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes all the known ones.
Latingangsta:
Are you mad because you are missing American Idol for this?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
So MAD!!
Mecrob:
My money spends just like a pc gamer i feel I'm getting short changed.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
What?
GroverPhonic:
Is it true that Digital Extremes can beat Epic Games at every game ?
James (Digital Extremes):
I'm sure that is probably true.
GroverPhonic:
Is it true that Digital Extremes can beat Epic Games at every game ?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Machine:
Are you at home or at the company?
James (Digital Extremes):
We are always at work.
JAPZERO:
What about the translocator glitch where it can stay on you or follow behind you
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Fixed!
[DBZ]FrayZ:
Which glitches did you fix that u know??.....One time at bandcamp....
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Errr... sorry about bandcamp, seek counseling - We fixed all the ones from the forum and the MANY emails we got (many from people who 'hate' me).
xboxermike:
What do you think makes Canadian game developers so creative other than pure Canuck talent
James (Digital Extremes):
Beer and cold winters.
Kaos:
Why are you guys answering Stupid Questions?
James (Digital Extremes):
Why do men climb mountains?
lrballa:
Most levels are small. Will there ever be outside levels?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey Irballa, yeah the CTF level that will very soon be available for download is a big outside level (along with several maps already ingame, like Lava Giant and Antalus).
MadBox:
Around how much will you start charging for the DL content?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
No charge!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Character downloads - none yet, but it's not impossible (it's just really, really hard)...
WikedxKlown:
What games do you guys play besides (of course) Unreal?
James (Digital Extremes):
Mech Assault and Asheron's Call 2.
Latingangsta:
What will happen with the rankigs? Will they be reset?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Still being decided.
rbdavis:
What do you think of the Xbox controller?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Rocks, quite possibly the best Xbox controller I've ever used that came with the console.
WikedxKlown:
Controller S? Or Regular?
James (Digital Extremes):
S of course.
Cobra848:
How many designers does it take to scew in a light bulb?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
3, one to write the light bulb docs, 1 to place it near the health and the other to disagree completely... I'm so funny.
s3rgi0:
Don't you hate the small controller?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Rocks for DOA3
loconick:
Will u be making any other game besides the unreal series?
James (Digital Extremes):
Definitely... they are in the works as we speak.
Kaos:
Why don't you Guys Stop acting like NEWBS and answer some real questions
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Don't ask the same question repeatedly damnit
Mecrob:
Please answer you asked what hard question you were avoiding and you won't answer why there are maps and characters not available for Xbox that are for PC
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey Mecrob. There were some maps in UT2k3 that didn't translate well to console play. On the other side, there were great maps like Osiris, Smote, and Frigid that ARE in UC and not in UT2k3.
DeathKnight:
What other games are u making?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Boring, nonviolent ones about moose... well one moose.
TDOT:
Don't you agree that your fat?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
I do
chumley:
These guys are stupid, eh.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Some
kreedskulls:
What was used for the AI
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Steve Polge was responsible for the AI code in UC.
loconick:
How old is everyone there?
James (Digital Extremes):
The average age is around 26
Mecrob:
I know you lowered the price now, is that because you gouged al the loyal fans?
mcsevilclone:
When will u answer one of my questions
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes, but only one... this one.
chumley:
Who is the funniest one of the group?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
ME! Isn't it obvious?
WikedxKlown:
Will we see any more gothic style maps such as Molten?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Yes, one for sure, WickedxKlown.
mcsevilclone:
You have got to be kidding
Steve (Digital Extremes):
no
|ISK|Cliff:
Steve will you marry me? Please!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Only if you ask a cool question
rbdavis:
How many copies of UC have been sold?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
More! Isn't your copy wearing out?
loconick:
How many years of college do u need to become a game creator
James (Digital Extremes):
It depends. A college degree will help get you in the door. It's becoming more rare that people are hired without one.
smokedog420:
Could there be an option to watch on going clan wars?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Other than joining, nope.
Kaos:
Why don't you Guys Stop acting like NEWBS and answer some real questions
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes sir!
WikedxKlown:
Why can't we auto dodge with the joystick?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Because too many people during testing did this by accident, since it is pretty sensitive.
Jagger:
When will the first content download be available ?(the exact date) and what will it be?
James (Digital Extremes):
We don't have control over the exact date. But it should be within weeks.
Machine:
What about being able to talk with all 16 players or however many at the same time? Please
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Sorry the bandwidth usage would kill the game play.
[FXB]Jester:
Approximately how long does it take you guys to do a good fairly big map?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Hey Jester. It really depends. Some go really fast and seem to be very easy to make, but others I'll struggle with and end up going through several revolutions. The longest part about making any map is the final stages where you have to clean up bugs a and make it as polished as possible.
Machine:
Will there be any UC Xbox live tourneys soon?
James (Digital Extremes):
We would love to see some! No promises, but it's being discussed.
TommyBoyz8:
With the capabilities of broadband you couldn't even have 6 or 8 players talk together?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Nope - not if these players can fire miniguns and jump and run at 40 mphs
kreedskulls:
(STEVE) one Developer to Another YOU ARE A DUMB ASS Person With a Bad Attitude
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Thanks, but that was not a question.
Mecrob:
Please answer you asked what hard question you were avoiding and you wont answer why there are maps and characters not available for Xbox that are for PC
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Okay! These models were made too late during development. Unlike PC development, any changes that get made near the end are carefully considered. So, some models did not make it. Some maps were simply too big to be included in UC memory wise.
ieatfood:
Why do the players run like a million mph??
James (Digital Extremes):
We messed around with the speed a lot. It's true that it's unrealistically fast, but we wanted a very fast pace for this game. We felt it became much more fun when we set it to the current speed.
[SR]Legend:
Don't you think robots jump a little tooo high??
James (Digital Extremes):
No, not at all. We felt it was a good tradeoff.
Phlashman:
Thanks for the best Xbox live game by the way
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Thanks!
MadBox:
How often do you play unreal in LIVE?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Pretty often, I like to hear what people say and experience during the game.
syko:
So...will u or wont u tell us your gamer tag in UC?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Oh no.. hehehe...
MonoxBoogie:
I have hard there will be a patch for UC. Lots of people believe the game is unfinished, and has a poop framerate. I play XBOX to get around patches for computers. I don't like buying unfinished games. What's the deal?
James (Digital Extremes):
Online games will always need an updating system. Hacks and other security issues will need fixing. In addition to this, we have always updated our games in the past. THIS IS A GREAT thing for gamers. Further balancing, improvements, new content, etc. These are things that as a gamer, I would want to see. I stress that this is no excuse for a rushed, buggy game and Microsoft's certification process simply does not allow for those games to get released.
ToAsTeD69:
Will you charge for downloadable content not patches?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
No charge!
shawnk00:
How many hours do you guys have to work a week?
James (Digital Extremes):
During the finishing of UC, the team was working around 90 hours a week. During normal development we probably average 60 hours a week each.
PoetSaskia:
Please don't ignore me? What gives with the UC trailer? Where is inferno? How many new maps are in the works?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Sorry, the questions are coming a million at a time . Inferno will be available for content download along with 3 other very cool maps.
Emil:
Will the patch be server side or client based?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
It updates when you connect to live - all consoles.
MrSelfDestruct:
Does turning of Auto-Aliasing make the game look worse graphically?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Not in our opinion - the pace of the game - but it can be reactivated.
loconick:
Please don't ignore this. Is there a computer sorting the questions?
James (Digital Extremes):
No
[SR]Legend:
Why did u guys decided to put autoaim in the game???
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
We decided to put this in because for casual gamers it is pretty tough to hit anyone without it. In fact for most people it will get tedious. (Testing proved this) For the l33t gamers like most of you this is a mere annoyance that is being fixed
Cobra848:
Dave, what maps did you design?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
I am responsible for DM-Antalus, DM-Osiris2, CTF-Orbital2, BR-Kalendra, and part of BR-Endagra.
chumley:
Who's responsible for lava giant 2 that rules
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
That would be me.. I am glad you like it.
[BRO]TheEpic:
Will the Xservers have Anti Aliasing turned off by default?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yep. Antialiasing is the user's preference, not the server.
loconick:
Your guys are cool, do u have any secret projects in the works?
James (Digital Extremes):
Of course.
Merek:
What will you guys do with the ranking system?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
More like a 'chess' rating scheme where your point awards are based on your opponents.
Mister:
Tell us a secret please
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Look for a ice-cow
Defcon1:
What is anti-aliasing?
James (Digital Extremes):
It smoothes out the image on the TV slightly, so you don't see as many 'jaggies'.
MrSelfDestruct:
Why don't you make all maps playable in deathmatch?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Because they don't all play good in different game modes for which they were designed.
Fluid:
Will you consider giving efficiency more revelence in the rankings system?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yep.
rbdavis:
Are we a pain in the ass?
James (Digital Extremes):
Definitely not.
shawnk00:
Aren't you guys worried about Halo 2's release...(i think that beats unreal)
James (Digital Extremes):
No, It's going to rock.
[DBZ]FrayZ:
How about a way to sort by efficiency or kill/death ratio or points?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Sorry, don't think this will get in.
Mecrob:
I hope I am a pain in the ass I want answers
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
We can take it. What question was this? Many questions are flooding in.
loconick:
Another question, Will there be new weapons when the download content
James (Digital Extremes):
Not in the next download. Perhaps in the future though.
VeN0M_V:
Do you think Auto Aim with the Lightning Gun is 'cheap?'
James (Digital Extremes):
No, the Lightning Gun is a favorite weapon of many people and requires a minute amount of auto aim to be useful. We feel it's not too overpowering or too weak.
Emil:
[BRO]ddolak - nothing to announce at E3 yet - some of us will attend.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
retryBRO]ddolak
|ISK|Cliff:
Pancho my name is cliff, did any one make fun of your name when you grew up? I mean like the rain jacket you know. People made fun of me because my name is a landform
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
HAHAHAHAHA.. sorry.
Merek:
What's your favorite gun? mines the mini gun =)
James (Digital Extremes):
Mine is the Lightning Gun.
[DBZ]FrayZ:
How about editing Arena Mutator to a checklist of certain guns?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Won't happen - it was like this but had weird interactions with other mutators so it got simplified.
loconick:
Why is Dave getting all the questions when James created the game?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Yeah, why is that??
Darksector:
*cough* we need DarkSector Info *cough*
James (Digital Extremes):
Soon.... soon.
Blakeman:
What is the best race?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Egyptians - lots of adrenaline!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Debatable though
loconick:
Why is Dave getting all the questions when James created the game?
James (Digital Extremes):
I certainly did not create the game. I had but a small part in it.
smokedog420:
Are you guys working on a clan rating system?? (I'd pat extra for clan options!!!)
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Not currently (sorry dude)
HeeroYuy:
Do you plan on making player skin customizable or making a custom character?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
No, that is not in our current plans. It would be pretty complicated.
Tekneek:
Did you work with CliffyB during the development of UC?
James (Digital Extremes):
Not much.
John:
Are there plans for additional downloadable content beyond the upcoming patch?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Yep
Machine:
Can you patch the profile so you can add symbols to your name?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
No - but at least its not forced to your gamertag!
syko:
Are you still getting a million questions a minute?
James (Digital Extremes):
Our apologies, but yes, a million questions are whizzing by. We can't get them all.
WikedxKlown:
Do you guys plan on holding any more of these chat sessions?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Definitely maybe
brian:
Any plan on making a downloadable level editor liek the one in timesplittters?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
No, sorry. Map editing UC levels is much more complicated and would be insanely difficult to do with a controller.
Emil:
I am 18 years old. What do I need to do in order to have a job like you guys?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
We hear this question many times! Make sure you have something to show to developers that you're applying to. Blow them away with your stuff.
The_Idol:
I heard on the forums that you placed a picture of Adolf Hitler in the map Grim Smote. Is this true?
James (Digital Extremes):
Of course not.
Cobra848:
Do you like your jobs?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Love it - especially the chats.
TyPhox:
I heard a lot about an ice cow or goats as Easter eggs but i never saw them! can you tell me where they are, or at least one?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Alright, so far the following is known: Flux2 has the cow. Eye Of Jahan has a goat.
rbdavis:
When would I ever want a shield gun affinity?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
A runner in ctf - gen mo kai
Bravo:
Do we make you feel special?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
It makes us all warm and fuzzy inside.
WikedxKlown:
What do you guys think of the UC community so far?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Some pretty cool people! It is wild to see this amount of interest in the game.
John:
How many hours a day did you guys spend at work while developing UC?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
12-16 hour days for the last several months of its development.
Bravo:
Was the creation of UC stressful?
James (Digital Extremes):
It was an extremely intense, stressful and difficult process. But totally worth it in the end.
Theclaw624:
Are you gonna add on to any levels to make them bigger and more suitable for any game type?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
This can't be done. It would mean a new map.
bigmrjohn:
Did you work on the original unreal?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Yep, Dave, James and me did.
James (Digital Extremes):
And Everton, MikeL, DanS.
|ISK|Cliff:
Why are you wasting your time in the chat instead of getting the patch certified so we can play in peace again! Get to work!
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Hehehehe. Don't worry, in the background there all these gnomes hard at work.
Nil8r:
What's the best advice you could give to a new player of UC?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Keep moving
TUPAC:
At E3 are you guys gonna show a new title?
James (Digital Extremes):
We will be announcing our new game around that time.
Mecrob:
You going to make the Xbox owners pay more for lvls?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
No way.. That sucks!
Bravo:
Were you inspired by anything to make some maps?
Dave (Digital Extremes):
BR-Kalendra was inspired by a typical drive into work for me way up here
Emil:
Do you guys have lives outside of work?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Yep we do.. We party all night long.
Jinn:
Don't ignore me%%%%% What was some of the most difficult challenges programming this game
James (Digital Extremes):
I won't ignore you. Meeting the deadlines to hit Xbox Livelaunch was extremely challenging for the programmer. They had to put in some incredibly long work weeks to get it done.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Again - I apologize to those who asked legit questions and haven't seen answers... I wish I had a crap filter for the questions...
rbdavis:
In the future, what is the best way to submit feedback?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
The forums!!
syko:
Do you actually read the forums?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
We read all the main forums!
[AOA]ShaknBake:
Even though i already said this i am just making sure u get it WILL THERE BE NE OFFICAIL XBOX UNREAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENTS?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Nothing is confirmed - this would rock.
Bravo:
How often do you read the feedback in forums? Do you go around to random forums and look for feedback? Or should users post on the Official Forums?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
If you feel like giving us some serious feedback send it to us directly. Then we will be able to read it for sure.
Dave (Digital Extremes):
Quite often! In fact several issues that will be addressed in the upcoming update were issues found from keeping up with the forums.
James (Digital Extremes):
We go in there from time to time to see what people are saying so we can improve the game in the future and tailor our downloadable content to what the fans would like to see. So we have gotten lots of ideas. Keep'em coming.
Nil8r:
Do you see Unreal hitting the Europe or Japan markets when Live launches there?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Its already out in Europe - so when Live comes to Europe you're all set. Not 100% on Japan right now.
[AOA]ShaknBake:
Sorry I got disconnected what did u say to this question WILL THERE BE NE OFFICAIL XBOX UNREAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENTS?
James (Digital Extremes):
We would love to see them, but it's not up to DE to decide that. We are pressing for it to happen though.
[DP]HULK:
Will shock rifle be toned down along with lightning gun when auto aim is fixed?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
It will affect all weapons
syko:
Did you steal my chess rating idea?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Yes, although the diagonal movement of the queen is all mine.
Yeah:
Could you please please please please please incorporate a llama in downloadable content?!?! PLEASE! At least respond please!
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Cool idea!
Loyalty:
What machines did you develope UC on? Alienware?
James (Digital Extremes):
We have a local company custom make our machines to our specific needs. Plug here for Superior Computer in London Ontario. They are great to us!
Cliff|ISK|:
Do you like Xbox Live more than the pc online?
James (Digital Extremes):
Personally, I do. I think Live has an incredible future ahead.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Will the shield gun glitch be fixed?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
We're looking at this one now.
Fluid:
I'd really like an answer to this one, it bugs a lot of people - will there be something done about "respawn camping"?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
No sorry. Not yet anyways.
Emil:
After this chat, are you guys gonna go play some UC?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Nope, we have a party to go to.
TUPAC:
Do you guys have rivals/game developers you can't stand?
James (Digital Extremes):
We love everyone.
chumley:
COME ON U HATE BUNGIE DON'T U
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
No way, they rock!
Fluid:
I'd really like an answer to this one, it bugs a lot of people - will there be something done about "respawn camping"?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Team work fixes this
Latingangsta:
ARE YOU BEING PAID FOR THIS?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
I wish.
Mister:
Why don't you guys do a megadeathmatch where it is just a plain field with nothing to use cover?
James (Digital Extremes):
That might not be too fun.
Kyle:
Why didn't you answer any of my 20 questions? I'm going ask you on the uC board on your site
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Sorry man - I got time for a few more
VeN0M_V:
What happened to the almighty Redeemer!!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Hmmm... I guess the TAG doesn't do it for you?
PoetSaskia:
Will you be converting UT2003 user mods for us to play?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
I doubt that this will happen.. Again, these things require a massive amount of effort.
SniperSpy:
Any stuff in the game to unlock?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Only a few secrets - also, you can unlock your own potential to kick ass.
GroverPhonic:
Have you ever though of addin a level and a gametype ,kinda like a virtual chat room.. so no weapons.. but just some nice layouts ( like a stripclub ).. for lonely the gamers out there
Dave (Digital Extremes):
In the works!!
xiRate:
What;s up with the reconnection?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Full servers and connection issues should be a lot better in the update.
Emil:
Is the party you're going to right now going to have strippers?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
I freakin hope so!!
Drunks:
let me say something
James (Digital Extremes):
ok
Sheep:
What is being done to make sure teams stay balanced and fair?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
The update makes this a lot better - plus it warns all players the teams are imbalanced, with a message on the scoreboard too.
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
lol.. Steve is faster.. Crazy coders.
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
You'll see after the update.
cenobite:
Any chance reedemeer gonna be added??? come on answer!!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Nope, don't think so
chumley:
PLEASE SAY BYE TO ME
James (Digital Extremes):
See ya later Chumley!
REDMAN_DC:
Are you guys anti REDMAN?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Only a few of us are.
REDMAN_DC:
Will you guys bann me from all the DE servers?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
If that makes you happy, sure.
VeN0M_V:
The V (Violators) clan would like to give a shout out to DE for making a great game!!11!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Thanks for playing!
James (Digital Extremes):
V(Violators) Rule! Thanks man.
TheNut:
answer 1 of my questions please
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Done!
Cliff|ISK|:
I want you sex by George Michaels is a good song. What do you think?
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
If you think so...
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Kick feature - I would love it too, don't think this will happen though.
loconick:
Can u say bye to me a final request?
James (Digital Extremes):
Bye Logonick.
Kyle:
Will there be any new characters in the future?
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Can only say 'maybe'... it has some complicating factors tho.
Ya-Bing (Moderator – Xbox Live)
Well, it looks like we've run out of time for today's XboxLive Community Chat. Thanks for coming and asking your questions (some quality, some, well...). We hope you got some good answers.
Ya-Bing (Moderator – Xbox Live)
Please understand that we can't get to every question, but let's all thank the DE guys for trying their hardest to do just that.
Ya-Bing (Moderator – Xbox Live)
Thanks again for coming to the chat and as always, thanks for playing Xbox Live.
James (Digital Extremes):
Thanks everyone! There was probably 2000 questions that went through and we apologize for missing many of the good ones. It was a fun chat.
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Well, guys see you later. Have a good one.
James (Digital Extremes):
Ok... I'm off. Thanks for all the good questions. Sorry for not answering them all.
Steve (Digital Extremes):
Chill freaks!
Steve (Digital Extremes):
I mean - thanks for coming.
Pancho (Digital Extremes):
Yeah guys, thanks for coming out! Out of the many questions, I hope we did answer some of the good ones. Have a nice evening/day.
