INTENTS AND CONSTRAINTS
Intents
Constraints
- Make a level that is very movement based and has players moving around a lot
- Give the players opportunities to use the environment to their advantage or disadvantage of others
- Make a space that almost disorients the players in terms of each other's next move
- Let the players take control in ways other than simply attacking
- One week to sketch and design the first version of the level
- Must allow for the players to utilize the warping mechanic of the game on both top/bottom and left/right of the stage
- Must have at least 1-2 interactable elements/mechanics in the level
- Must be able to access all portions of a level without needing to warp
Reference Gathering
Design Breakdown
Elevator Platforms
The elevators are one of the main ways for players to traverse the levels. They can either allow them a quick escape from an incoming attack, or stop them in their tracks by becoming an obstacle that appears in front of them. The left elevator will always be moving downward (warping to the top when it goes through the bottom of the stage) while the right one does the opposite. This allows a way to predict their movement and try to either work around or with them at any point in the round.
Minecarts/Tracks
The minecart tracks are the main attraction of the level. Not only are they the main structure the players will stand on, but they also will have a mine cart on each level. The top minecarts will take the player across the top and launch them past the elevators while the lower ones will do the same, while also launching the players upwards. While the players can stand on the tracks, they must still watch out for incoming carts that could send them flying.
Design Breakdown (cont.)
Lanterns
The lanterns (despite being very cool decorations) are one of the most impactful points of the level. As the stage's singular light source, players can either accidentally or purposely break them, causing that section of the level to dim or even go out completely. This allows them to send carts into unknowing adversaries, but also leave them open to a potential sneak attack.