Ravine Level Design

Updated on

Overview/Goal

My goal was to create a level iteratively for a third person shooter. I planned my level in Adobe Illustrator starting with a node based diagram, then using a Melan diagram to ensure players decisions got them to different places in the map. I then used this to whitebox the level in Unreal, also utilising feedback from group playtests to improve on previous designs.

Media/Gallery

Final Screenshots

A Site
Blue Launchpads
C Site
Red Launchpads
Red Sniper Tower
Combat Arena between B & C
B
Combat Arena between A & B

Diagrams

Melan diagram
Node based layout

 

Work In Progress

Making rapid prototype 3D models in 3ds Max
A top-down view with sightlines drawn on to show players can't see the central point from launchpad landings.
A screencap with sketches showing my goal for the launchpads.

Contribution

Tools used

  • Unreal Engine (Whiteboxing, Blueprints)
  • Adobe Illustrator (Diagrams)
  • 3DS Max (Modelling crystals and other decor)

My Role

I was tasked to create a level iteratively for a third person shooter. I planned my level in Adobe Illustrator: Starting with a node based diagram, then using a Melan diagram to ensure players decisions got them to different places in the map, and finally whiteboxing the level in Unreal using playtest feedback to imrpove on previous designs.

Reflection

I am pleased with how the level turned out both aethstetically and in layout. I talk about my thought process, feedback and changes on the Github Wiki along with the source files.

Aside from the layout, I modified the games jump pads into a long-range yet robust 'launchers' for both teams which was recieved very positvely. I also gained some experience with Unreal's blueprint system modifying this and other game mechanics like killzones and weapon spread.