Game Development - Task 1

 Name : Ivy Chung Ai Shin

Student ID : 0358429 

Program : Bachelor Of Computer Science 

Contents : 

• Week 1 - Exercise 
• Week 2 
• Week 3 
• Task 1 - Game Development Proposal 

Week 1 

In this week , we had a short introduction to game developments. Mr Razif had first brief us the module information which includes the weekly tasks and projects. He then proceeded to gave us an overview of what we will be doing in game developments and what we will be expecting in this module. Lastly , we were asked to play a few game samples created by past students and critically review as our first exercise.

 

Exercise 1 : Game Review 

Game #1 - Zapper Snapper 

Zapper Snapper is a relatively simple yet interesting 2D game. I like the idea of the game which allows the user to undergo an apocalypse-like gameplay. However , there are a few aspects of the game that can be improved.

Figure 1.0

Review 1 : 

It is vital that the health bar in any game conveys the information the the player about their character's game survival. However , in this game , one common issue is the absence of clear instructions or intuitive visual cues on the health bar. This lack of clarity had led to confusion and detracted my overall enjoyment of the game especially on the early stage of the game.  I find myself at a disadvantage, struggling to comprehend how damage affects their character's health and how they can recover from or mitigate this damage.

To address this, game developer should focus on improving the accessibility and intuitiveness of the health bar system by changing the visual of the health bar.

Figure 1.1

Review 2 :

One of the smaller aspect of the game that I like is that I get to push and throw the barrels provided. This creates a more fun experience and adds an interactive element to the gameplay. Being able to push and throw barrels not only serves as a means of interacting with the environment but also enhances the sense of immersion and strategic thinking within the game. This mechanic introduces a layer of dynamism where players can use barrels strategically to block paths, create obstacles for enemies, or even solve puzzles. It fosters creativity and encourages players to experiment with different approaches, adding depth and replayability to the overall gaming experience. The ability to manipulate barrels in such a way adds a satisfying physicality to the game world, making it feel more responsive and engaging. It's these seemingly small interactive details that contribute significantly to making the gameplay memorable and enjoyable. 

Figure 1.2

Review 3 :
There was a slight bug in the game that was found where the user will spawn at the next checkpoint although I have not reached to that point. This bug may disrupt player's sense of achievement and can lead to confusion or frustration. Additionally, I believe encountering such a bug can impact the overall pacing and narrative coherence of the game, as players may find themselves skipping important story elements or challenges meant to be experienced sequentially. 

Review 4 : 

Another review of the game is that the map of the game can be confusing as it is not properly lay out ,  making navigation and orientation challenging for players.  Therefore , I had a hard time understanding where they are in relation to their objectives or may repeatedly get lost in the game world. Although , this creates complexity in the game but this issue can impede immersion and hinder the player's ability to fully engage with the game's content. 

Summary Review : 

I enjoyed the game overall , while the game exhibits promising aspects such as interactive gameplay mechanics and atmospheric elements like wind effects and eerie map themes, there are critical areas that require attention. Improving the health bar clarity, addressing bugs, and refining the map layout are key priorities to enhance the overall experience and allow players to fully appreciate the game's potential. With focused improvements in these areas, the game has the potential to deliver a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience for players.

Game #2 - Adam's Nightmare 

This game shows a minimalist concept that portrays refined and intentional design approach which are pitch-dark elements representing a situation of a nightmare. It perfectly aligns with the title of the game making it predictable for players before starting the game. With that , this conveys a perfect design choice by the developer. 

Figure 2.0

Review 1 : 

I personally like the atmospheric sound effect that gives of the eerie vibes making the player to feel more immersive and better gameplay experience. This atmospheric sound design with other ambient noises such as footsteps and small movements creates a sense of atmosphere and tension that draws players deep into the game. These elements overall evoke a compelling mood of the player but also enriches the storytelling and exploration aspects of the game.

Review 2 : 

The game also added obstacles that are simple yet challenging at the same time. It provides guidance and tips into surviving the game. This gives the game the balance of both complexity and also fun. It shows subtle guidance and instructions but still clear to understand. 

Figure 2.1

Review 3 : 

The change in map theme and concept adds extra dept to the game experience from a player's perspective. With the versatility of the map crafted , it offers difference unique environment that players can explore. From the lush forest to the desolate wastelands , the diversity of map theme offers a rich backdrop for the gameplay. Thus , this keeps the game engaging and dynamic which ensures that the players will continue to play and progress through the game. 

Figure 2.2

Review 4 : 

This obstacles part amazed me in particular. I was delighted by the creative idea of putting floating barrels as the path way to move across the swamp , and that the the movement of the character affects the movement the barrels together. This creates an innovative and engaging gameplay experience that challenges players to navigate strategically through the environment. The use of floating barrels as pathways across the swamp introduces a unique puzzle-like element, where the player's movement directly influences the positioning and stability of the barrels. The incorporation of physics-based mechanics, where the character's movement affects the barrels collectively, enhances realism and immersion. 

Figure 2.3 

Review 5 : 

One main issue of the game is bug and game logic issue. The figure below shows the player still alive despite being in the swamp. Therefore , this caused a small confusion in the game. 

Figure 2.4 

Summary Review : 

I really enjoyed this game and found this game interestingly fun and enjoyable overall. The game had showcased immersive gameplay such as including atmospheric sound design , varied map themes and creative obstacles mechanics. While these aspects contribute positively to the overall experience, resolving technical issues and ensuring consistent gameplay logic will be key to enhancing player satisfaction and enjoyment. With focused improvements in these areas, the game has the potential to deliver a more polished and engaging gameplay experience for players.

Week 2

In week 2 , we were introduced into the concepts of brainstorming ideas. These are some of the concepts that we can explore that can help us to come up with game ideas. We were told to work in a group to come out with a game idea applying the "SCAMPER" method : 

S - Substitue 

C - Combine

A - Adapt 

M - Modify 

P - Put to other use

E - Eliminate 

R - Reverse 

Diagram 1. 0 - Group Game Idea

My group had come up with a game idea from a student's game - CONJURE. We applied the similar game concept idea and combined with other game concept such as "MapleStory" and "Unblock Me". 

Week 3

In this week , we dived into putting our game idea into a concrete structure. This lecture helped us to understand the different game aspects that can affect player's experience. Mr Razif had then gave us an exercise by asking our favourite game and why do we like it? Later , he taught us about the definition of game concept. The purpose of the game concept is to describe a game with enough detail to distill and communicate its vision to the reader. To explain what makes it fun, who'll enjoy playing it, and why we should make it a reality. 

Image 2.0 - Game Concept Slide

Exercise 2 : Favourite Game 

My favourite game - League Of Legends

Why ? 

• Competitive
• Fast-paced
• Goal-oriented
• Social Interaction
• Visually Appealing 
• Graphical Effects

TASK 01 : Game Design Document 

In this task , I have researched through some inspiration of games that I have used to play and perhaps try incorporating these inspiration into a game. As far as I remember playing 2D games , it was back in the 2010s. I grew up playing these 2D games such as Pokemon , Metal slug , Geometry dash , Mario and more. Therefore , I am very much inspired by all these games and would like to come up with something of my own. 

After learning about how we can use the method of 'SCAMPER' to come up with ideas on new games , I also proceed to use this method that can guide me to generate game ideas. 

With that , in the theme of my game , I am exploring on a horror and creepy theme game as I personally enjoy horror games. The second approach I am exploring would be animal theme games that are chill and fun with a touch of a story-telling adventure. My last approach would be action-adventure games which is also my top favourite series of game. As we are required to come up with a story for the game , I diverge my focus  into story-based game instead. We are also only required to create a 2D side scrolling or platformer game , thus I will ensure to follow the guidelines. 

In the end , I have decided to use 3 game as an inspiration to refer and analyse : 

• Metal Slug 
• Kirby The Game
• Dinosaur Game

Game Development Ideas : 

SCAMPER Method 

Story Gameplay	Method
The dino attacking monsters and going through obstacles	Adapted from the kirby game & metal slug
The game story of dino	Put to another use from the real dino game
Having different dino characters	Modified from the real dino game & adapted from the kirby game
Dino wil have to save other creature who had been lost into the digital landscape	Adapted from the metal slug game
Dino does not have amiibos	Eliminated from the kirby game
The game mechanics in dino	Combined with kirby and metal slug

Figure 3.0 - SCAMPER 

After thorough research and brainstorming , I have decided on a game idea - Dino's Adventure using the SCAMPER method as shown in the figure above. The story of this game is where Dino from the offline world had entered into the "internet" world where varying colors and elements have come to reality. He goes through an adventure defeating mobs and hopefully find his way back home. 

Final Game Design Presentation :

GAME DEVELOPMENT by IVY CHUNG AI SHIN

Game Flow : 

1. Offline Landscape:

Dino starts in a familiar offline desert, running through a rugged landscape dotted with cacti and rocks.

2. Portal to the Digital World:

Dino discovers a mysterious portal shimmering with digital light. Curiosity piqued, he jumps through and is transported to a new realm.

3. Digital Desert:

Dino finds himself in a vast, pixelated desert. The sand glows with digital patterns, and he encounters the first "virus" – a glitchy scorpion. After defeating it, Dino collects the first gem, unlocking the next portal.

4. Digital Volcano:

Dino steps into a volcanic landscape with streams of lava flowing in perfectly straight lines. He battles a fiery "virus" dragon to secure another gem, which opens the next portal.

5. Digital Space:

Dino is propelled into a vast digital cosmos, with floating platforms and asteroid fields composed of shimmering pixels. Here, he encounters a "virus" space pirate, piloting a rogue spaceship. After a thrilling battle in zero gravity, Dino secures another gem.

6. Digital Forest:

The portal transports Dino to a lush, digital forest with trees made of circuit boards and leaves of glowing code. A "virus" serpent lurks here, and upon its defeat, Dino gains another gem.

7. Finale – The Digital Citadel:

The final portal brings Dino to a grand digital citadel, a towering structure of pixelated stone and light. Here, Dino faces the "virus" overlord, a formidable foe guarding the last gem. After an epic battle, Dino triumphs and collects the final gem.

8. Return to the Offline World:

With all the gems in hand, a portal opens, leading Dino back to his offline landscape. The adventure has made him stronger and more resilient. He returns home, ready for whatever comes next.

Skills & Abilities 

 Long Range  : 

• Fire 
• Double Fire 

Short Range  : 

• Slash
• Double Slash

Others : 

• Gun [Space only]
• Knife [Forest only]

Game Sketch & Draft 

I have drawn out the game characters and some of the sketches using the software tool  Procreate. I also plan to apply the animation on these characters using the software. 

Characters : 

Image 4.0

Image 4.1 - AstroDino

Image 4.2 - JungleDino

Image 4.3 - BlueDino

Image 4.4 - FireDino

Image 4.5 - GreyDino

Final Boss 

Image 4.6 - Final Boss

 Game Scenes 

Image 4.7 - Intro Scene

Image 4.8 - Digital Desert Scene

Image 4.9 - Digital Volcano Scene

Image 5.0 - Digital Space Scene

Image 5.1 - Digital Forest Scene

Image 5.2 - Ending Scene

Game Assets & Resources 

Image 5.3 - Game Assets 

Final Game Design Proposal

Final Game Design Presentation 

Reflection : 

Throughout my lessons in game development for the 4 weeks , I have learnt so much about the fundamentals of game development. We were exposed to many games such as past student's games and also past games. From there , we were told to provide our own personal reviews about the games. I was able to understand better the details in the game from the characters movement , graphic effects and game storyline which I have never paid attention to before. Due to that , it made me appreciate the creation of every game where these developers had carefully crafted. I had also gained inspirations from their creation and would like to develop a game of my own. After looking into some of my favourite games , I wanted to take some of the inspirations and ideas , using the SCAMPER method to develop into a new game. From a person who had no experience in designing , I had self-learnt through tutorials online and had successfully design some of the characters. It took me fair 4 weeks to finalize the game idea along with the game design. I would like to thank Mr Razif for the guidance and advice that he had provided for my game development proposal and am looking forward to the end result of the game.