Feature: 'Improving the Combat 'Impact' Of Action Games'

In today's main feature article (free reg. req.), Korean-based Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders senior coder Jiesang Song discusses the 'feel' and impact of combat attacks in console games, suggesting multiple ways that game creators can make their character attacks visually appear more powerful. Song comments in his introduction to the piece: "In this article I will list observations of techniques used in several actions games including: Ninja Gaiden, Soul Calibur 2, Prince of Persia: Warrior Within (POP:WW), Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (LOTR: ROTK), Devil May Cry 2, Dynasty Warriors, and the classic Street Fighter 2. I will also make remarks based on my development experience on Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders (KUF: TC). As the list of games suggests, this article is mainly about action games that involve hand-to-hand combat, usually involving swords, and excludes discussions about the “impact feel” of FPS shooters for the most part. The techniques involve animations, camera work, special effects, game controller rumble, and sound effects." You can now read the full Gamasutra feature on the subject (free registration required.)