First time dev question on how to start
Hello!
I have had an idea for a video game for a long time, and finally feel like I'm in a spot where I can make it a reality. The key concept is a unique combat mechanic for casting spells I've come up with. That's the biggest risk and the biggest draw, because I think it's super cool and unique but others might not.
I have a difficult decision on how to proceed. My ideal game is ambitious (probably impossible for a solo dev) because I would want essentially another Dark Souls game with co-op for up to 4 players.
My two options I've worked out for starting are:
Create a Minimum Viable Product showcasing the unique combat mechanic in a single dungeon with about 30 minutes of gameplay and 1 boss (in UE5) with no multiplayer.
Create a PvP focused game in Roblox using the same combat mechanic as a proof of concept, maybe also include some basic PvE as well (though that would play nothing like DS).
The pros of building the game in Roblox is I could get the game launched in under a year and monetize it through aesthetics and such pretty quickly. People wouldn't have to pay to play it, I could work out the kinks and see what people like/don't like, etc etc for little to no cost. Get a lot of feedback, maybe make some money.
The problem with Roblox is that if it is successful and people do like it, I would essentially have to start over from scratch in UE5, and I most likely wouldn't be able to maintain the Roblox game at the same time so it would shut down.
I'm really torn about how to begin. Any insight or recommendations would be welcome.