The Dodecaplex is a real 4D shape, it has many

peculiar properties

For instance, to generate its 600 vertices you use these permutations:
({0, 0, ±2, ±2})
({±φ, ±φ, ±φ, ±φ−2})
({±1, ±1, ±1, ±√5})
({±φ−1, ±φ−1, ±φ−1, ±φ2})
([0, ±φ−1, ±φ, ±√5])
([0, ±φ−2, ±1, ±φ2])
([±φ−1, ±1, ±φ, ±2])
Where φ is the enigmatic golden ratio.

and is a fascinating mathematical object. Dodecahedrons, which are the 3D version of the dodecaplex, do not tile in 3D space (as opposed to cubes) you can see that illustrated bellow.


However, you can create the illusion that they tile if you use the dodecaplex's 4D vertices to derived a 3D projection of the shape... This is actually a very subtle projection. (Because there is only a small gap in the gif above). Below is a render from my first working dodecaplex projection ( implemented in C++ using OpenGL )



There are many '4D' or 'hyperbolic space' games that are overwhelming and confusing and more of a gimmick. The objective with the Dodecaplex is to create a 4D game that is a bridge between 3D and 4D, one that people can navigate but will only slowly observe strange artifacts of the 4D map they are technically inside of.

These artifacts include things like

'wrapping'

This is a product of 'loops' inside of the dodecaplex that can be visualized in this projection:

where if you go far enough in one direction you will wind up back where you started but from a different perspective. Additionally things that are closer will move slightly different than things that are further. But the whole time it will seem relatively normal for 3D. Gravity will also change frequently.



The intended game mechanics are all magic based. You have a book called the Grimoire. It contains a library of Sigils that you flip through that correspond to spells.

Spell Effects Examples:











The dodecahedron primitives / cells will not be the only geometry in the scene, it will have doors, stairs, and other architectural components inspired by many different religious / magical / science fiction sources such as cathedrals, DUNE, and the MYST games. The dodecaplex also lends itself to generate fascinating cave-like structures.