Physics Games and Physics-Based Game Downloads

Next Generation is reporting that Mark Healy’s physics-based fighting game, Rag Doll Kung Fu, is headed to retail stores in North America. Previously RDKF had been exclusively available via Steam, Valve’s digital distribution network. The retail version will have both a standalone version and a version integrated with Steam (for easy access to online updates, community support, and the like).

Next Generation previously reported on Healy’s new studio, Media Molecule. Their upcoming title is four months into development with a team of 10. No word yet if it’s a physics game.

I haven’t reviewed RDKF on the site, yet. It is arguably the most well-known physics game of the last few years, though, and definitely the most anticipated prior to its release. A review for it is forthcoming. For the record, I found it to be a huge disappointment. More on that in my review, though!

This has been rumored for awhile, but according to a recent article at ExtremeTech, Microsoft is still planning on adding a Direct Physics API to DirectX. They cite this job posting at Microsoft, which mentions:

The Windows Graphics and Gaming Technology group is looking for a software design engineer to join a growing team responsible for developing Direct Physics. This team is responsible for delivering a great leap forwards in the way game developers think about integrating Physics into their engines. Physics and real time, accurate simulation is a key part of the next generation gaming experience, bringing increased realism, greater immersion and more interesting experiences.

It would make sense for Microsoft to get involved in standardizing an API now that Ageia’s PhysX hardware is actually on the market. A year ago I had heard that Ageia would open up their API in a bid at making it the industry standard, but I guess that never panned out. Microsoft has made no official announcement regarding a Physics API in DirectX, either, so perhaps it’s merely R&D. Anyone have more information?

Peter Stock, creator of Armadillo Run, was kind enough to field a Fun-Motion interview regarding his debut physics games. He covers the project’s inspiration, his design process for developing and testing levels, and his future plans. It’s a great read, and thanks again to Peter for his time.

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