Project Summary
This week we had our playable version of our game from the beginning to the end of first level.
Current Schedule
- Prepare for the playtest on playtest night
- Prepare for 1/2 presentation
What went well
Issues for support
None
Design Update
We decided to change the game from 3D to 2.5D because of the following reason.
Linear,
2.5D provides a more linear and guided experience. While 3D open worlds offer freedom, play can sometimes get lost from story. The nature of 2.5D ensures players stay more connected to the primary plot.
Better Accessibility
2.5D game is accessible to a broader range of players. Navigating a 3D space can be challenging for some players, particularly if they’re not familiar with 3D game mechanics. A 2.5D platform reduces this complexity, making it more welcoming for players of all skill levels.
Consistent with 3d
- World Setting
- Tutorial logics & words
- Puzzle logics
- Card mechanism
- Art asserts
- Tree
- Island
- Key
- Puzzle pieces
- Card UI
Differences & Next Step
- No jumping & no going up and down
- Camera 45 degree angle
- Change placer movement and camera perspective
- Change card use movement
- Change the design to linear
- UI puzzle
Art Update
PixoLock tree
With this blend of the mystical and the digital, we hope to immerse players not just in challenges and puzzles, but in a narrative that is rich, engaging, and steeped in a visually compelling environment. The journey through the enigmatic world of cryptography is set against a backdrop that is as puzzling and intriguing.
Aesthetics
The tree has a life-like vibrancy while also being intertwined with cybernetic elements, reflecting a world where nature and technology coexist and enhance each other.
Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from the binary tree, the PixoLock tree is not merely a visual spectacle but also a puzzling challenge, guiding players through a journey of exploration, learning, and revelation.
Programming Update
“Modifier” Card:
Players at this puzzle need to select the “Modifier” card to utilize it as their skill of choice during their cryptographic quests.
Picking this card activates the player’s ability to interact with certain in-game items and puzzles, allowing them to modify elements within the game environment.
Puzzle
The puzzle requires players to choose the “Modifier” card and aim at the shapes to manipulate them, this task is to match a predefined original shape, acting as a tangible representation of deciphering and decoding in cryptography.
After successfully matching the shapes, a key will be unveiled – a symbolic and literal ‘key’ to progressing further into the cryptographic journey.
Playtest
We playtested at the Tuesday playtest night on CMU main campus. We got many valuable feedback and we are planning to iterate the game based on the feedback
Feedback
- Need to have better player controlling
- Player get confused on where they can go because it’s nonlinear
- Need more visual hints of where the player can go
- Unclear what’s a indicator and what’s an object in the scene
- Need positive feedback after solving a puzzle