I'd say a way to fix that is by introducing the mechanics first with a few signs to show you that it's not possible to enter, just like how no one spends their time in Sonic 3 trying to break a block in a path meant for Knuckles, they just go on. There would be a point in which the player understands they can't go through the path, and would leave it alone, and I'm also sure Hez wouldn't just leave a path laying there for Sonic and co. to reach normally, as that would be confusing in itself. But I can't confirm that.
I'd suggest putting it high enough so only a bullet could push it. Not sure if camera range is enough for that, though. EDIT: A shooting target instead of a button could give a better clue too.
I think that does look better, and would be less confusing for a player that's not Nack/Fang to find. The colors work, too!
Do you have unlimited ammo? You could make the switch like a cog that each bullet causes it to spin a bit. Then there's a level of time sensitivity before the cog rewinds aka closing the passage.
The gun uses rings for bullets. Whenever it hits anything it turns back into a ring and you can recollect it. You'd have to be pretty...bad...to not have rings to open a door at this point in the level. I could always incorporate a ring generating device as well.
it should spin like rings do, just faster and keeping the axis into account. The color change would depend on whether it's a one-time only trigger, the door closes progressively, or anything other possibility. For one-time only, you could have a breaking animation instead of a spinning one. The color change fits better for a true switch (first shoot opens, second shoot closes, and so on), but also for one-time only triggers if you don't break them, giving them different colors to differentiate each option. A quick spinning after shooting that becomes a slower spinning on the opposite direction would work for doors that close slowly and they could require more than one shot to open them completely. Bullets spending rings is a bit risky on later levels, I'd suggest having an ammo meter that refills with rings but doesn't use them, or having ammo monitors to refill it instead. That in case you don't want unlimited bullets, which I assume you don't or else there would be no ring payment in the first place.
I like it! I have been toying around with having ammoless bullets. Basically bullets that don't destroy badniks, but still will allow you to hit targets etc. The rings as bullets works really well until you throw in these types of switches. Also makes getting hit more of a risk. I'll see what the beta testers say too.
Double post but update. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygR4hX6wYak Video shows the updated menu systems, and shows some of the unlock-able items (Skins for Sonic basically). I also show up a bit of the revamped Circus City and Liquid Lagoon. I also revamped the level layout of Dark Valley majorly. Adding new obstacles and making the lighting actually affect game-play when you are inside. Next video I'll try and get some of the other levels. I don't want to give away too much.
Lookin' pretty nice. I've never been a huge fan of darkness gimmicks, but lighting torches with the fire shield is a very cool idea.
This is fucking incredible and a serious leap beyond Classic 1 in every way. This is "Sonic Team-level" good. Your art here is on par with the Classics. Excellent work. Excited to play this.
I've been following this topic for the Last few years (despite being not a member on the forums untill 2016) and so far i can say that this is a fan game that it's worth waiting for!
the update... oh my goodness.. so glad i never gave up waiting for this game- i-i-its beautiful :') I absolutely love EVERYTHING that was shown on there, especially with all the customizations man that must have taken a long time to finish.
So heres a question. You unlock a secret act when you collect all 5 red rings from all acts of that level. What would be a good reward for beating all of the secret acts? I can't think of a good one rewarding enough. Ideas would be welcomed!
Your level of dedication is a sight to behold. Secret acts? Amazing idea! And one that would take so much work. This is why your games are so good. You put everything in to them. As for suggestions on potential rewards my gut instinct is saying Super Sonic - but that's for the emeralds/special stages - so maybe a Sonic 2 on the Master System bonus Crystal Egg style zone?