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Project Overview
Designed and implemented one level for a 3D split-screen multiplayer game where we worked with an existing IP, Super Mario. The level was carefully crafted to work as a split-screen experience as well as a competitive experience. The game was made to fit the theme of the IP and was balanced to be competitive and fun for players of all skill levels. Focusing on creating a satisfying learning curve and rewarding player skill and strategy. The level was well-received by players and testers, and was praised for its engaging gameplay, creative design, and faithful representation of the Super Mario universe.
Key Responsibilities
- Designed layout and flow for the only level in the game
- Created whitebox prototypes and iterated based on playtesting feedback
- Established player encounter design patterns and difficulty progression
- Collaborated with artists on environment design and visual direction
- Ensured player experience was engaging and fun
- Ensured all design decisions were aligned with the project's core vision and goals
- Managed project timeline and deliverables to meet deadlines
Design Highlights
Exploration
Designed the level with multiple pathways and secret areas, rewarding player exploration while maintaining clear critical paths.
Environmental interaction
Implemented interactive environmental elements, like pickup items that could be used strategically by both players
Fair Play
Carefully balanced the players' ability to access resources to ensure a fair and competitive experience.
Flow and Pacing
Used player feedback and playtesting data to adjust pacing and flow, ensuring a consistent and engaging experience throughout the game.
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Balancing fair play
Players needed to feel that they had equal access to resources and opportunities, regardless of their starting position or playstyle.
Solution: Implemented a resource distribution system that ensured all players had access to the same key items and opportunities, regardless of their starting position or playstyle. Balancing starting positions and resource availability across the level.
Challenge: Giving players a sense of scale and immersion
Making the player feel like they have a level to explore, discover and hide in, without it being impossible to find the other players or key objectives.
Solution: Implemented clear visual hierarchy and spatial design to guide players' attention to key areas and objectives. Without overwhelming the player with too much visual information, ensuring that key elements were always visible and accessible.
Lessons Learned
- Clear communication with artists about gameplay intent ensures cohesive environmental design
- Understanding the player's perspective helps in designing more intuitive and engaging levels
- Having a clear design vision and game vision helps guide all design decisions
- Documenting design decisions helps understand and maintain design consistency across projects
- Iterative whitebox design saves significant time compared to building detailed geometry first
- Playtesting is essential for validating design decisions and identifying issues early in development and internal testing misses
Want to try the game? Play on Itch.io