Episode 95 - Sink Holes!

In COPICafe Episode 95 titled "Sink Holes!", the hosts Josh Jones and Rob Greig discuss the advancements in their open world MMO project, Cornucopias.

The team highlights the new nodes reward calculator, updates on the automated build process, progress on the Land Rewards Deck, and infrastructure testing with Amazon.

They also introduce Catherine, an environment artist, who shares insights into creating sinkholes and points of interest in Solace. The discussion covers enhancing realism with visual elements, cultural diversity in the team, and Catherine’s positive work experience.

00:00:00 Introduction to Cornucopias, its floating islands, and communities. The hosts present the nodes reward calculator, developed with ChatGPT, allowing players to estimate daily and annual rewards. Updates to the build process are mentioned, and a Q&A guest is introduced.

00:05:00 Details of the node calculator: first-year allocation of 26M COPI tokens, node operators can host up to four delegates, and rewards depend on uptime and performance. Early registrants in July receive full rewards, with NFTs delivered on July 1, 2024.

00:10:00 The new automated build process reduces manual work, improving efficiency. The team works on publishing the Land Rewards Deck and refining server infrastructure with Amazon for scalability.

00:15:00 Manual placement of 8,000 of 24,000 land plots in Solace is underway. Catherine, a new environment artist from Quebec, joins the team. She shares her background, including working on a Disney short film, and engages in light-hearted cultural exchanges.

00:20:00 Catherine discusses her love for survival and open-world games, which inspire her designs. She values the team’s improved pipeline and workflows, emphasizing the importance of tools for environment artists.

00:25:00 Catherine explains the design of sinkholes that challenge players to find entrances and exits via tunnels. Using real-life references, she creates assets that enhance mystery and exploration.

00:30:00 Discussion on adding points of interest like caves and hidden views. The team uses geological studies and Unreal Engine weather/day-night cycles to deepen immersion.

00:35:00 Focus on visual realism: foggy weather, forest details, tree roots, and fallen trees. Inspiration comes from real experiences like Colorado fly fishing trips. The team’s passion strengthens Cornucopias’ culture.

00:40:00 Catherine praises the company’s family-oriented environment, strong communication, and trust. She values the culture and looks forward to future collaborations. The conversation shifts to the node reward dashboard under development.

00:45:00 Discussion on the impending pause of node sales. With weeks left, viewers are encouraged to buy nodes before NFT and reward distribution. The pause allows testing and development. Future COPI Café episodes will feature more team members, external speakers, and influencers.