- Check out the game "Chain Reaction" (Rube Goldberg Puzzle game that uses physics in Garage Game's Torque engine) It has some circus like elements in it. I found it interesting at times to play.

http://www.garagegames.com/pg/product/view.php?id=7

- I think the premise could be developed interestingly, but could also easily become uninteresting, or even repulsive. I know that a lot of people dislike clowns; some are even scared of them. This could be problematic as far as the games appeal. Perhaps if the game addressed these issues it could be interesting. The mere fact that you can be aggressive towards other clowns certainly begins to address them. I'd definitely include evil clowns (e.g. the demon Clown/Violator from Spawn).

- I'd continue doing research on clowns to gain inspiration. Using the Shriner archetype could be very potent for developing story and characters. First off, some of them drive those little cars in parades, which is always hilarious. Next, they have a connection to Freemasons, which is full of conspiratorial / occult elements that could be included or inspiring. They’re inevitably old guys with big bellies and those funny maroon hats with the tassel. Plus, they have those mysterious pyramid shrines. Did you go to the circus at the Shrine this spring? Not sure if it’s purely an annual event…

- Seltzer bottles could be used for propulsion as well.

- Balloons sculptures would be great. It might be interesting to have a bonus level / power up where you have to make a particular balloon animal for a kid. If you don't do it right, the kid cries, or kicks you. Kids and grown-ups who freak out and run away from clowns would be great.

To be honest, I think the story is going to be key, and the current story doesn’t seem interesting enough yet to be a compelling game. It just needs some more work is all. Some irony, sarcasm, mythology, etc. can go a long way.

I'd be willing to help with some pre-production, and the story (if you wanted help there). I may be able to help with modeling / animation as well.

Definitely should try to incorporate evil clowns. I hate clowns, and games that are scaring you while you play can create so much tension and fun. Maybe you could have a haunted map or something. You could even use famous scary clowns, like
It clown from It
Clown Doll from Poltergeist
Xander's Clown from Buffy ep. Nightmares
Doink from WWE
Killjoy Clown
Carnival of Souls clowns, etc....

Now I have to go look at pictures of puppies to get the evil clowns out of my head :)

Wonderful ideas!

Brad - Story hasn't been much of a focus as I am pulling heavily from the idea that the game can go in either one of two directions - 1. Sandbox type game like the coaster creator that was demo-ed not to long ago, or 2. Counter-strike gameplay that is mission based and purely for creating a team play based atmosphere for completeing simple goals. I am heavily leaning on 2 which involves littler amounts of story and more emergence (sp?) in everyday gameplay (think Will Wright and the Sims). Think physics and unpredictable bits of latze/gags/slapstick and things might come together for you. Having counter-strike as a reference is even better. I need to hook you up if you haven't played it!

Seltzer bottles are used for propulsion as well, check the doc, it's there! We're on the same track definitely.

Evil clowns are a must as you really need two distinguished sets of character models for a team play based modification such as this. Use what you know...counter-strike, counter-strike, Counter-Strike!!!