Development Phases

Overview

The development of SynCity is divided into four distinct phases. This iterative approach allows us to validate the core simulation logic before investing heavily in high-fidelity graphics.

Phase 1: The Simulation Core (Prototype)

Status: Completed

The primary focus of this phase was to build the mathematical engine that powers the city. Visuals were minimal.

• Core Engine: Implementation of the "Tick" cycle and the global state store.

• Grid System: Basic 2D array logic to handle coordinate mapping (X, Y).

• Economy V1: Implementation of basic transactions (Income, Expenses, and Wallet balance).

• Basic AI: Agents can exist, have a name, and possess a single stat (e.g., Money).

Phase 2: Interactive Alpha (Current Focus)

Status: In Progress

The focus moves from backend logic to player interaction and visual feedback.

• Building Placement: Players can select blueprints and place them on the grid.

• Resource Management: Buildings now consume electricity and water.

• Pathfinding: Implementation of A* (A-Star) algorithms to allow agents to navigate the road network.

• UI/UX Overhaul: Introduction of the Sidebar, Minimap, and Inspector panels using Tailwind CSS.

Phase 3: Deep Simulation (Beta)

Status: Planned

This phase introduces complexity and "Chaos" into the system to make the city feel alive.

• Social Dynamics: Agents will form relationships, get married, or form social groups.

• Dynamic Economy: Prices of goods will fluctuate based on supply and demand logic.

• Events System: Random events such as natural disasters, economic booms, or pandemics.

• Save/Load System: Full database persistence using MongoDB.

Phase 4: Polish & Expansion (Release)

Status: Future

The final phase focuses on optimization, visual fidelity, and platform expansion.

• 3D Rendering: Potential migration from 2D Canvas to WebGL (Three.js) for fully rotating 3D camera views.

• Mobile Port: Optimizing the touch controls for iOS and Android tablets.

• Sound Design: Full implementation of spatial audio and adaptive background music.

• Mod Support: Releasing an API for community developers to create custom buildings.