Learning and Research – Unreal Engine 4 : Post 2 – Ideas

I have had a look at the example 3D side scroller that is included within Unreal Engine 4 (4.9.2); and the first thing I think I need to change a lot compared to this example is how the camera is used. Within the example, the camera is very static and it feels like that it is too close to the character, making it hard to see the environment around, especially when jumping. So one of my major goals over the next few weeks is to learn and create a camera system that is less static to the character, is able to move back and forth, and also able to rotate pointing towards the character.

With the character movements within the example, I feel that what is given is a great start for what I want to produce in my final version of the game, all I will need to change is how quickly the character can move and maybe try to add a double jump mechanic within the game.

Finally, after looking at what I be working with, I think that it will take a few weeks or maybe just over a month to get a very basic version of the first introduction level (which will be teaching the user how to move the character around). I feel once I have made this though, the production of the levels will be developed a lot faster.

What is a 2.5D game?

This is a game that contains a 3D environment, but uses 2D logic within the games mechanics (Link here to source). What this means is, a game could have graphics that are polygonal, but the mechanics of the game use 2D logic, example of this is a platform based game where the character you control can only move in 2 axises (usually X and Y), but not in the 3rd axis, but the environment itself is within all 3 axises, which adds depth and perspective. There are many example of games that have used this, one of the most popular are the Little Big Planet series and Kirby 64.

Below I show videos of both games being played:

Moon Sun modelling and animation

I have a concept idea of creating an animation based on making characters from the moon and the sun, making them interact with each other.

At this point, I am thinking of making the design use low poly models without smoothing with basic colours.

Rigging will be the hardest part for me to do. I will need to rig the characters eyes, mouth, lips and arms.

First step with this idea will be concepting and finalising the idea before moving on with this concept. At this point, the idea is not developed enough.

I will start working on developing on this idea after I have finished concepting the idea for my Independent Practice work for college.

Why do this project?

It will teach me basic animation skills within 3D which will be useful when creating animations for my Independent Practice game. Also will allow me to develop my skill sets with different art styles.