Continuing Development of Autoflotilla

I really enjoyed making Autoflotilla for Ludum Dare 19. It’s quite different from anything I’ve ever made before, but the project appeals to me very strongly. I’ve decided to release a post-competition version. What I would like to do is give it a bit more polish and develop the game’s atmosphere. I want to avoid making it more complicated or making it feel cluttered, however, so I’ll try to use a light touch when making additions.
A friend of mine will be contributing some ambient sound to the game.
Other additions will include:
- a curved, rather than flat seascape
- some light regional variations- for instance islands in one area might be shaped differently
- a few visual extras, such as flying creatures
- a few unique landmarks
- looping edges (Asteroids-style toroidal)
The curved horizon will definitely suit this game!
It would be nice to get some sense of orientation, although I don’t know how best communicate that. I’m not proposing anything GUI wise for it, just something visual. I get disoriented easily, yet I enjoy exploring!