Technical Design / Environmental Interactables

​One of the first tasks given to me was to come up with concepts for interactable environment objects, using any of the already existing art assets.

Some challenges were:

• Added mechanics should fit the game vision and work well with the already existing gameplay

• Objects should add interesting multiplayer dynamics

• The added mechanics should be well-balanced for all 3 player characters (Destructo, Retronaut, Securobot)

• Scope of each object should be very small (<2 weeks dev time)

 My process included brainstorming with another Technical Designer, performing pitch presentations, creating design documentation, creating the interactable object mechanics in UE4 Blueprints, and implementing the objects in the level. 

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The objects I eventually ended up creating were: 

• Healing Core: An object that pops up from the ground when Destructo is near. He can stab and destroy it to "charge" (heal)

• Magnets: Pull magnets - Destructo can fling himself towards these from a distance. Push magnets - Destructo can shoot these to launch himself or any Securobots standing near them away  

• Vending Machine: Can be shot by Retronauts to launch a stream of cans and other items that blocks pathing and damages

• Proximity Audio: A reusable actor component that can be added to all interactable objects to make them audible in an area