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Show HN: A Dark Cave – Minimalistic Graphics in the Age of AI Slop

10 points by julez_ ago | 4 comments
Almost a year ago I started building A Dark Cave, a dark text-based browser game.

The game intentionally avoids visuals and embraces minimalism.

I use only text, symbols, and sounds to create atmosphere and spark the player's imagination.

From time to time, I think about adding graphics to my game, since it is one of the most common requests I get from players.

I even made a post about what I call the AI Slop Temptation: https://www.reddit.com/r/incremental_games/comments/1tcs8ou/...

From the comments, it seems that players prefer no graphics at all over AI-generated graphics, at least when they can recognize them as AI-generated.

In my opinion, the growing abundance of easily available polished graphics means games will soon need main differentiators beyond visuals alone.

Maybe it will be storytelling, atmosphere, creating emotions, personalization, nostalgia, or the ability to leave space for the player's imagination.

When it becomes easy for every game to look good, what will be the things that actually make games great?

What do you think?

Also, I am grateful for any feedback about my game!

anthonycoslett |next [-]

I've been playing for about an hour now. I'm addicted. Where did my time go? LOL - I think a lot of people are starving for immersive and interactive experiences like this that doesn't lead to sensory overload. deep relaxing breath The mind fills in between the lines. Throwback to choose your own adventure books/RPG's of yore. It's so calming. Well designed. Not overwhelming - at all - and honestly allowed my brain take a breather despite it also being active enough to ensure resources/villagers/decisions were taken care of. Created an account and currently resting in the estate - thank you for creating and sharing slow clap

julez_ |root |parent [-]

Thank you very much for that thoughtful feedback! Enjoy the game :)

inspector14 |previous [-]

this is probably one of the most interesting/inspiring games i've played in a very long time. i'm only 30 minutes or so into it, but i'm excited to see where it goes.

julez_ |root |parent [-]

Thanks a lot for the nice feedback!

I would be interested ot hear from you once you have progressed a bit more.

Have fun playing!