Haptics are similar to the "rumble packs" on game consoles,
brought to mobile devices and the technology uses fine control over
the vibration motor on a device to accentuate audio-visual effects
within the game. This means that as well as seeing and hearing a
shot (or collision, or bounce, or engine, etc), the player can also
feel it. This provides higher level of user engagement, and
consequent monetization opportunities.
The haptic library in GameMaker: Studio is provided by
Immersion (of San Jose, California) and is licensed without
charge for use in your games. However, to use haptic effects, you
will need to tick the "Use Haptics" check-box on the
Android Tab in the Global Game Settings, and accept the
Immersion EULA (End User License Agreement) that is shown.
After you accept the EULA, you will be able to successfully compile
your game in GameMaker: Studio with haptic effects
enabled.
To help developers feel haptic effects in a game context, and also
to review the set of over 100 effects, please install the free
Immersion Haptic Muse app onto your Android
test device. The Haptic Muse app lets you choose individual
effects, feel them in game scenarios, and select the effects that
work best in your game.
It is worth noting that haptic effects are used in over 2,000 game
apps from around the world and that the technology consumes less
battery power than playing the sound effects in a game. Game apps
with Haptic technology enhance the satisfaction of game players
both casual and hardcore and can differentiate your app from many
others in the market place.
The Immersion integrated API is easy to use, with only two control
functions:
Should you need any further information or advice on haptics,
you can contact the Immersion Developer Support by email at
HapticsDev@immersion.com.