Interview with WiiWare Developer Tim Laning

The Wiire talks with game developer Tim Laning about the next WiiWare addiction, Diatomic.

When you first look at Diatomic, you notice the similar "bright neon" look that is reminiscent of Geometry Wars and Evasive Space.  But under the surface, this new WiiWare game brings back memories of another simple, addicting shooter, Ikaruga.

When talking with Tim Laning, Co-Owner of Holland-based independent game developer Grendel Games, a few important facts about this fascinating game surface.  Laning insisted that the game forces players to constantly make choices between offensive and defensive play.  This "hectic arcade action title" places players in control of a diatomic (defined as a molecule that consists of two atoms) creature with a tail that can be used as a whip (offense) or curled around itself as a shield (defense).

Laning was kind enough to elaborate further on the game and the state of its development.

The Wiire: First off, will the game include any online functionality, such as online leaderboards?

Tim Laning: Online leader boards will not be present in this version. Although we would love to have them in there, at present, it's not going to work out. There will be several leader board options. If the public likes our game, it's likely that there will be a sequel, which will definitely sport online modes and leader boards.

The Wiire: Is there a multiplayer element to the game?

Tim Laning: There is going to be a multi player mode, although we cannot comment on it further at this time as it's still being tested and adjusted.

The Wiire: You mention "spinergy powerups," are there other powerups to look forward to?

Tim Laning: There is just one power-up to pick up, but the real power enhancement lies within the scoring system. True masters of Diatomic will be able to enhance their scores and power by playing the game to perfection. Stacking individual bonuses and multipliers is at the very heart of the game for those who've mastered it. Others will merely try to progress through all chapters and their waves and bonus waves.

The Wiire: Are there other modes, that perhaps include a timed element to the game at all?

Tim Laning: Diatomic sports at least three different game play modes. A timed mode is but one of them.

The Wiire: Will you be able to let us know the price (in Wii Points) or a release date for the game?

Tim Laning: We can tell you how many wii points need to be spent to get the game when Nintendo has agreed with our proposal. This will follow within the month.

The Wiire: How are the controls oriented? Will the game use just the Wii Remote, Nunchuk, or possibly the Classic Controller?

Tim Laning: The game will use both the Nunchuk and the Wii Remote. The classic controller is not supported because it wouldn't feel right. It's a very physical game.

The Wiire: On that note, will the games utilize the Wii's unique features, such as motion control or the IR pointer? If so, how are they being implemented?

Tim Laning: The motion control will be used for controlling the game. The IR pointer itself is only utilized for menu navigation and things like profile creation.

The Nunchuk will steer the player, while slashing your Wii Remote in a certain direction will make the player's tail whip in that same direction. In addition, the [Nunchuck] can influence the course of the player when he/she is engaged in Spinball mode.

The Wiire will keep you updated on the development of this game, and would like to thank Tim Laning for his time and information.

About "Diatomic"
"Diatomic" is a hectic arcade action title that focuses on making choices between defensive or offensive play. The player controls a diatomic protagonist equipped with a deadly tail that can be used as a whip or curled around its body as a shield. Defend your petri dish and destroy the invading diatoms. Collect the mystic spinergy power ups and engage in the all-devastating spinball move to obliterate your enemies. Stack bonus after bonus, hold the multipliers and become top-dog at the leader boards.

About Grendel Games
Grendel Games, established 2003, is an independent game developer from Holland. We focus primarily on creating games that bring something fresh and authentic to the table. With this in mind, "Diatomic" is our take on the arcade action genre.