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(12 edits) (+1)(-1)

I purchased Autonauts when it was version 4, because the core concept is very charming.

But with automisation being the key feature, I find it frustrating that the code doesn't fit the window as soon as loops are added. This is becoming more of an issue now with nested loops. I understand that you have lots of plans and that you can only ever do one thing at a time. But isn't coding the bots the main point of the game? Wouldn't you agree that legible code matters more than anything at this stage? Even if the current graphics for it are a placeholder? A wider window would take up too much room. But you're wasting so much valuable space inside that window with clunky graphics. Screen space is a very valuable commodity!

And the red "recording" background is strenuous. Imagine, you'd have to write your code on a red background and you'll get the idea.

Flashing is also strenuous and should be reserved for messages which require immediate attention. The flashing icons over the cows are an example of bad use of a flashing message. The milk icon is quite sufficient to inform the player.

And you have beautiful icons for every item. Wouldn't they be a good means to avoid this sort of mess in the inventory?

Sorry about sounding "bossy". I don't mean to. I'm just trying to be clear and explain my opinion well. It's nevertheless just my personal opinion.

I understand your frustrations :(

Yes everything you raise is a valid point and we'll be improving the entire UI as we go. Everybody finds different things important but unfortunately we can't do everything at once and sometimes features will suffer.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

(1 edit)

No need to apologize ;-)

I agree with your "everybody finds different things important" statement.

It is just my personal belief that the UI matters most, particularly in entertainment software. Because the UI is what any player interacts with all the time. It's the same with tools: if a tool fits your hands well, working with it is a joy. If the grip hurts because of it's awkward shape, your work is painful.

I strongly believe that good access to the available features is of greater importance than additional features. Five easy to use features give me more joy than ten inaccessible features. (I know I'm exaggerating.)

That being said, I love the humorous appearance of your game. I'm impressed by what you've accomplished in the past two weeks. And I'm glad I discovered Autonauts. It's fun to play and I'm very curious as to where it will go.