Games Development - Task 1

25 / 09 / 2024 — 16 / 10 / 2024 (Week 01 — Week 04)

Jordan Axel / 0354894

DST 61104/ / Games Development / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor's University

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INSTRUCTIONS

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Week 1

We were given a brief overview of game development this week. First, Mr. Razif gave us an overview of the module, outlining the weekly assignments and projects. He then went on to give us an outline of this module's expectations and what we will be working on in terms of game creation. Finally, the first task required of us was to play through and critically analyze a few game samples made by previous students.

GAME REVIEW

Game 1: Zapper Snapper

fig 1.0

fig 1.1

Pros of Zapper Snapper:

1. Creative Concept: The viral outbreak narrative is engaging, providing a solid backdrop for the platforming action.
2. Visual Appeal: Strong environmental design and visuals reflect effort in creating a distinctive atmosphere.
3. Level Design: Well-structured levels with varying challenges add to the gameplay experience.

Cons of Zapper Snapper:

1. Health Bar: Lack of clarity had led to confusion and reduce my overall enjoyment and experience of the game
2. Stiff Controls: Movement can feel unresponsive, impacting overall fluidity.
3. Instructions: Lack of clear instructions

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Week 2

In week 2 , we were introduced into the concepts of brainstorming ideas. We were also introduced to 6-3-5 method which is a technique that helps a team generate a large number of ideas in a short timeframe by drawing inspiration from previously mentioned ones. The technique involves a team of 6 people writing 3 ideas in 5 minutes each round 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 : 

Substitute= replace(mechanic, story, character, etc.)

Combine = combine

Adapt= taking into other game to our game(like copying)

Modify= change

Put to another use= example= gun can shoot to kill ALSO, to activate a lever etc.

Eliminate= Sometimes, the best way to make a product better is to eliminate some of the unnecessary components. What can be removed or simplified? Is there a way to better streamline the product?

Reverse= reverse mechanic, story, theme

And there is another method which is:

3 (i) Method

1. Include or Incorporate=take from other
2. Improve
3. Invest or Invert=flip

CLASSIC GAME

We are given a link and time to try classic or old games online. I tried doom and i choose level 2 just to be safe. It was hard to control and aim but overall was fun.

fig 2.0 doom game

fig 2.1 doom game finish

EXERCISE: GROUP GAME IDEATION 

Subject 9 Game Ideation

We practice "SCAMPER" method to create a game in just an hour as a group. Our group choose to change the story and we made resident evil reversed. Where the player becomes the monster and survive to take revenge on humans.

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Week 3

In this week we got Unity tutorial on 2D and 3D platform. Also, introduction on JavaScript as well. I learned a lot from what is rigid body, collider, and how to link the script. 

We were told to make a circle and a board than we make it to have realistic physics like how it falls and how gravity, mass, and drag works.

fig 3.0 2D Tutor

After we are introduced by the key components we were told to make a catapult like figure by using our knowledge and logic.

fig 3.1 Catapult

3D

After the 2D tutorial we also have 3D to try. We were given a Google drive link with a tutorial pdf, Car game asset and the plane game inside that we all have to download and import to unity.

fig 3.2 Unity 3D

After following the lecture and steps on the PDF file i manage to finalize the car game. We used VScode to do all the coding because it is more recommended by the lecturer as they can be linked together.

fig 3.3 Car game exercise

Final Outcome 

Catapult

Car Game

Plane Game(Challenge 1)

We are asked to recreate a plane game as instructed.

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Week 4

INSTRUCTION

We are asked to follow the pdf for this week's exercise. We try to make the player feed the hungry animals. We have to place the animals and players on the ground. After that, we script to make the player move first.

fig 4.0 Script

fig 4.1 Shooting Sandwiches

fig 4.2 scripts

Final Outcome

fig 4.3 Result Video

CHALLENGE 2

As a homework we are given a challenge to make a fetch game to test out knowledge about this week's exercise.

fig 4.4 Challenge 2 demo

GAME IDEA

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REFLECTIONS

Experiences:
In the first four weeks, I explored game development through game reviews, brainstorming sessions, and hands-on Unity exercises. I played Zapper Snapper to analyze its strengths and weaknesses, worked with my group on a reversed Resident Evil concept using the SCAMPER method, and learned technical skills in Unity, building a catapult, car game, and a game where players feed animals.

Observations:
I observed that while strong visuals and narratives enhance games, poor controls and unclear instructions can ruin the experience. Brainstorming led to creative outcomes when combining ideas, and in Unity, understanding physics components like mass and gravity helped create more realistic gameplay.

Findings:
I learned that balancing creativity with technical skills is key to successful game development. Techniques like SCAMPER encourage innovation, and mastering Unity scripting allows small changes to have a big impact on game dynamics. Clear instructions and responsive controls are essential for a positive player experience.