TimeMelters is a refreshing and unique mix blend of Tower Defense with third-person action from developer Autoexec Games. Having spent a period in Early Access, the game now embraced full release, inviting all players on this time-bending journey. Engage in strategic battles against dangerous foes, manipulate the environment to your advantage, and explore a world teetering on the brink of doom as you attempt to outrun fate.
The game features single-player and co-op campaigns, providing experience like no other. Check out the game’s Steam page or take a look at our review to find out more. We had a chance to sit down with the developers and have a small chat about the development of the game and the future of TimeMelters.
Gamespace: Hello, we are thrilled to have an opportunity to chat with you. Please, introduce yourself and tell us a bit about Autoexec Games.
Autoexec Games: Delighted to be here! My name is Adam, and I’m a part of Autoexec Games, a video game studio that strives to create innovative gameplay mixed with rich and unique universes. The studio was founded by Vincent Blanchard, co-creator of Sang-Froid – Tales of Werewolves.
Our inspiration stems from the games of old PC titles such as Dark Omen, Wing Commander, and Dune. The name of the studio originates from the command line used to start a game back in the day — you had to type c:\autoexec.bat or even edit it along with the config.sys file to free up more RAM to launch the game. Our goal is to create something fresh, something different, something that old-time gamers like us will find challenging, but above all else, fun!
Gamespace: How long have you been working on TimeMelters? Did the game change a lot compared to your initial vision?
Autoexec Games: We’ve been working on TimeMelters for more than 6 years, and it’s been quite a journey. The game has indeed undergone significant changes compared to our initial vision. Initially, it was more like Ogre Battle, huge territories to defend, but your army was your past selves.
While really fun on paper, the prototype turned out to be so-so, so we went back to the drawing board and, while the core mechanics and themes remained consistent, various aspects of the game evolved as we progressed through development. We constantly iterated based on feedback, playtesting, and our own creative insights, resulting in a game that we’re immensely proud of today.
Gamespace: Can you tell us a bit about your inspirations when it comes to story and gameplay?
Autoexec Games: Our inspirations for TimeMelters come from a variety of sources. The initial spark came from a ghost tour in Scotland, where we were fascinated by the folklore and history surrounding the region. This inspired the setting and storyline of the game, which combines elements of medieval fantasy with real-world folklore. In terms of gameplay, we drew inspiration from various genres, including hero defense and time travel mechanics, aiming to create a unique and engaging experience for players.
Gamespace: What was the most memorable moment of development for you?
Autoexec Games: One of the most memorable moments of development for me personally was the implementation of the time travel mechanic. I mean, when it REALLY started working. It might not look like it, but it was a really complex and challenging aspect to design and integrate into the game. Seeing it come to life and witnessing its impact on gameplay was incredibly rewarding. For example, if the player press TAB and place the mouse cursor over a group of enemy, a pop up will appear saying that 12 out of 15 enemies will be killed by one of his Echo in exactly 20 seconds. That feeling and the whole precision of our deterministic system is something we are quite proud of. Additionally, seeing the game evolve and improve over time, from initial concept to the polished product it is today, has been a truly gratifying experience.
Gamespace: Reversing time adds a unique layer of complexity to the game. Was it one of the initial main building blocks for TimeMelters in your mind, or did it come later?
Autoexec Games: The concept of reversing time was indeed one of the main building blocks for TimeMelters from the beginning. We wanted to incorporate this unique mechanic to add depth and complexity to the gameplay, allowing players to manipulate time to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. However, the implementation and refinement of this mechanic evolved over time as we experimented with different approaches to make it as intuitive and enjoyable as possible for players.
Gamespace: What were the biggest challenges you have encountered during game development?
Autoexec Games: One of the biggest challenges we encountered during game development was balancing the complexity of the time manipulation mechanics with accessibility for players. We wanted to create a game that was challenging, with many complex game mechanics interlacing each other, but also rewarding without being frustrating. Additionally, managing the scope of the game and deciding which features to include was a constant challenge, as we had to prioritize certain aspects while leaving out others to ensure a polished and cohesive experience.
Gamespace: Were there any features that you wanted to include but had to leave out of TimeMelters?
Autoexec Games: As for features we wanted to include but had to leave out of TimeMelters, there were indeed some ideas that didn’t make it into the final version of the game due to time constraints or feasibility concerns. We had a stealth mission and another mission where you fight an entity that also has Echoes on each timeline that did not make it. Also we would have LOVE full voice acting, because our game is quite story heavy, but we didn’t have the budget for it. However, we’re constantly exploring ways to expand and improve the game post-release, so who knows what the future holds?
Gamespace: TimeMelters spent a long time in the Early Access phase. Would you consider player feedback crucial to the game’s current enjoyable state?
Autoexec Games: Absolutely, player feedback was instrumental in shaping the current state of TimeMelters. We did 10 HUGE patch during early based on comments. Adding full controller support, rewriting part of the storyline, changing the tutorial, etc. We spent months refining gameplay mechanics and improve overall player experience. Without the input and support of our community, the game wouldn’t be where it is today.
Gamespace: Would you consider the single-player or the co-op as the ultimate way to experience the game?
Autoexec Games: Both single-player and co-op modes offer unique and enjoyable experiences in TimeMelters. While the single-player mode allows players to immerse themselves in the story and gameplay at their own pace, the co-op mode adds an extra layer of excitement and collaboration as players work together to overcome challenges. The Spiritsight ability, allowing you spirit to leave you body and cast spells anywhere on the map, is really cool to help the other player in coop! Ultimately, the choice between single-player or co-op depends on the player’s preference and playstyle.
Gamespace: Now that Version 1.0 is out, what are your future plans for the game? Are you thinking about DLC?
Autoexec Games: Our future plans for the game include continuing to support and update it based on player feedback and community engagement. Maybe co-op challenges if players ask for it. Additionally, we’re considering new features and optimizations, and will soon port the game to consoles.
Gamespace: We appreciate the opportunity to have this interview. Is there anything you would like to add for our readers?
Autoexec Games: I’d like to express our gratitude to all the players and supporters of TimeMelters. Your feedback and enthusiasm have been invaluable to us throughout the development process, and we’re incredibly grateful for your support. If you can help us spread the word, it would mean the world
