Last week, Nintendo unveiled the intriguing Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program, a unique opportunity for Expansion Pack members fortunate enough to enroll and reside in select countries. As codes are distributed, the details of this enigmatic playtest are coming to light.
Exploring the New Game Concept
At its core, the playtest introduces a collaborative game where players unite to cultivate a vast, imaginative planet. The objective is to harness creativity and harvested resources to develop this expansive terrain. As players traverse the landscape, they will encounter diverse lands, formidable foes, and valuable resources that will aid them on their adventure.
Integral to gameplay are special tools known as Beacons. These devices emit a healing light that purifies and enhances the land. The strategic placement of a Beacon determines its range of influence; the higher it is positioned, the broader the area it purifies. Within the designated Beacon Zone, players can manipulate, lift, and modify items, allowing for the construction of various creations such as platforms, stairs, and even trees, reminiscent of a sandbox experience.
However, players are limited to editing only their own zones, while adjacent areas remain public spaces where anyone can contribute and place items.
A Social Hub and Unique Features
The game also introduces a feature called the Dev Core, a distinct area separate from the planet that acts as a social hub for players. Here, participants can level up their characters, which bear a resemblance to a blend of Fall Guys and Pushmo. Each player possesses a unique skill known as the Development Positioning System (DPS), enabling them to monitor the planet’s development status and track the positions of fellow players.
Content creation is open to all players, but first, they must acquire a UGC (User Generated Content) license. This process involves passing a test within the game to demonstrate an understanding of respectful communication, ensuring a positive environment for all participants.
While screenshots of the game remain under wraps due to player agreements, anticipation continues to build. Notably, Australia and New Zealand are absent from the list of participating countries, leaving many to observe as others dive into this new experience. The playtest is set to commence at 12:00 PM (noon) AEDT this Thursday.
The future of this initiative remains uncertain. Will it blossom into a brand new intellectual property, serve merely as an experimental venture, or act as a test for Nintendo’s networking capabilities? Only time will tell.
