#ardn612

[isthisprogress]

Drunken Tavern Brawler - Reflective Statement (ARDN612)

Throughout the semester, I worked on “Drunken Tavern Brawler” for Studio 6 and ARDN612. Hence, this was a 45 points project. Harry and Ryan worked alongside me, but only dedicated 15 points each. Yet, I can proudly say this was the best project I have been apart of; the outcome speaks louder than anything else. The project taught me many skill and lessons in game development and team communication. Nevertheless, getting to this outcome was a very interesting journey.

During my last semester break, I spent a significant amount of time playing with and exploring Unreal Engine 4 as a tool. While scouring YouTube, I came across a tutorial on how to make a “Gang Beasts” like fighter (Medel Design, 2017). From here I started experimenting with physics assets. Then made this:

After making that I thought I could make a comedic ragdoll fighter, but while talking to a friend; she mentioned she was drunk and that gave me an idea for a Snapchat caption “Drunken Bar Fighter The Video Game”. This snap got a lot of positive reception, which motivated me to make the project a reality.

Initially, the project started off as a Gang Beasts(Boneloaf, 2014) clone. But, through play testing I realised that I wanted something a bit more original and different. Thus, I began to pivot toward a 3D arena brawler and want to make it emphasise the competitive; yet goofy nature I saw the players exhibit. Hence, I began to looking at mainstream product in this genre like Super Smash Bros(Bandai Namco & Sora Ltd, 2014); as well as hidden gems like Shrek SuperSlam(7 Studios & Shaba Games, 2005). Coincidentally, Sherk SuperSlam ended up being a critical factor in making the decisions and morphing the project, in the early stages.

Through the experience, I gained a lot of conceptual and project management skills. One of the most useful skills I gained from these departments was learning how to listen to and judge feedback. I realised that the most important thing to listen too is “Why are they saying what they are saying?”, understanding why something is being said will help one determine what is the problem and if it is essential. I could share many examples, where players were asking for specific mechanics or animations edits; which would have only been polish. However, upon reflection the best example I can think of was controlling the level of drunkenness or having that “unique aesthetic”. From face value both suggestions look like they will add a lot of value to the project. But, upon evaluation I noticed that they are not essential to the programs functionality and enter the territory of feature creeping. Moreover, controlling the drunken level would require significant programming done to the ragdoll and physics; currently I am using default values. Then will have to break the skeletal meshes into separate models, re-rig and animate all of those limbs. This entire element may take up to 6 weeks to do, with two working on it. The time span includes no research and accounts for code documentation to crystal clear and bugs to be non-existent. Speaking realistically this would strip development time by at least two-thirds, if we are lucky and a single problem is never faced. Then again there may be a way to fake it, but it would require a lot of time to develop. Basically, if we had succeeded in doing this the final product would have been an utter mess and the actually “game” part would have been half-assed.

On the technical side many skills and principals were learnt or underwent significant improvement. Firstly, I became a lot more aware of the system architecture of Unreal Engine 4. Where, it became easy to figure out how to expose certain variables. Secondly, I learnt a lot about Physics Assets, hierarchical rig and layer blends by bones in a skeletal meshes; where I now understand how to animate specific limbs and send messages efficiently down a chain. Thirdly, using a minimum area within a rectangle to control a dynamic camera smoothly (More documentaion: https://www.geometrictools.com/Documentation/MinimumAreaRectangle.pdf) (Eberly, 2015). Lastly, I have a much better understanding on judging task length.

During the project there were many occasions where I lost track of what I wanted to make. There were many occasions where I started turning this into a technical fighter and neglecting the intended audience. The reason for this was that I got more interested in looking at frame data and combo chains. Then again when one is passionate they can easily get carried away and lose themselves in their work. I could blame Tekken 7 (Bandai Namco Studios, 2015) for these issues, however it did assist in teaching me how to chain combos and structure fighting mechanics and make certain actions punishable, which led to me nerfing the jump.

In conclusion, I do feel like I cheated by doing very little research into drunken behaviour. But, at the end of the day; the fighter part had more importance and essential to the game experience. The drunkenness just acts as a selling point. However, focusing on the fighter part allowed for the project to get done; which gave me a project to look forward to working on after graduation.

References:

Medel Design. (2017, June 27). 😝 GANG BEASTS Fight Style - UE4 Tutorial + PROJECT DOWNLOAD [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4kLV8DifI&t=2s&ab_channel=MedelDesign

Boneloaf. (2014). Gang Beasts [Video Game]. Double Fine Presents.

Bandai Namco & Sora Ltd. (2014). Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo Wii U [Video Game]. Nintendo.

7 Studios & Shaba Games. (2005). Shrek SuperSlam [Video Game]. Activision.

Eberly, D. (2015). Minimum-Area Rectangle Containing a Set of Points. Geometric Tools, LLC. Retrieved from https://www.geometrictools.com/Documentation/MinimumAreaRectangle.pdf

Bandai Namco Studios. (2015). Tekken 7 [Video Game]. Bandai Namco Entertainment.

[isthisprogress]

Studio VI - Finding That Aesthetic (Week 6)

Throughout the week I put this project aside and decided to focus on an elective paper. However, the week has been more design oriented.

For starters, I finally understood what Ben wanted when he spoke about aesthetics. He was referring more to developing the drunken feeling of a character, where I explore the actions and behaviour of drunk people. This may have gone over my head, because I don’t drink. I just don’t like the taste of it (A KGB has been the only thing I enjoyed) and I fall sick after exceeding a certain amount. 

So then why the hell am i interested in making a drunken fighter? Well, to be frank; it just seemed fun to do, I have wanted to make another local multiplayer game since Kiwijam ‘16, and I really like fighting games.

I would like to have a look at this recreating this aesthetic and giving this game a poetic undertone. But, with half the time gone and graduation coming around the corner. I have started to reflect and think about what I truly want from this project. So far, I mainly want a polished technical demo that emphasises my skills as a developer and will help me with finding a job. My group members feel some what similar, but are counting on this project less, due to it being a side project away from their studio. 

I will attempt to explore the aesthetic, when I have enough time; where developing a more drunken feeling involves entering the feature creep zone. Nonetheless, this is still my final studio project; so a part of me should scream something meaningful to ME. Well, I’m not interested in “Drunken”; but I am interested in “Fighter”. 

Martial Arts is another big hobby of mine. As a kid, it just looked cool and made people feel stronger. I started of with Shotokan Karate, then moved onto Akite(Mix between Karate, kickboxing and Aikido), then krav Maga that I stopped in mid-2015. I got lazy and out of shape, plus i never really went too far with any of those previous styles. However, this year I decided to get back into Martial Arts and picked up Muay Thai (Thai Kickboxing); which has helped me a great deal and I have gone through the advanced classes to sparring. Sparring/Fighting is something I really enjoy due to its tense situations and you feel better about yourself afterward (Even though I am terrible at it). Honestly, I could go off on a tangent about my love for this; but let’s just stop here. Basically, I really want to place a gigantic focus on the combat mechanics.

Now back to what I should have started with. We have been discussing the literal aesthetic and want something cel-shaded. Ideally we would like something that looks similar to “Sly Cooper Thieves in Time” or “Sunset Overdrive”.

(Sanzaru Games, 2013)

(Insomniac Game, 2014)

References:

Sanzaru Games. (2013). Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time [PlayStation 3].  Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Insomniac Game. (2014). Sunset Overdrive [Xbox One]. Microsoft Studios. 

[isthisprogress]

Game and Play Development Methodology - Presentation (Week 6)

The utmost vital and bare minimal tools required to make Drunken Tavern Brawler.

[isthisprogress]

Game and Play Development Methodology (Week 1)

So the first class of the semester was an interesting one, this elective paper was combined with Interaction and Play. Hence, resulting in a massive class. 

Part 1: Speed Dating

Our first big activity involved an idea pitching through a speed dating exercise, So, I just realised that I didn’t take a photo of my small postie notes. Let’s just imagine I did. For this exercise, I decided to have some fun, by picking options that contradict one another then try and pitch an idea that could be done. I switched my idea out in round 2, hence there being 2 pitches I made.

Round 1: 

“Tweeting lights“ & “Send nudes“

My first challenge was to make an idea that could be used in Aotea Centre, that wasn’t Rated R. Firstly, I manipulated the terms nudes to refer to something that was naked; an image that wasn’t hidden under anything. Final idea was:

“Use twitter to make to activate lights on a massive led screen, to create a naked piece of art. A photo of your art will be taken and randomly sent to someone who has already taken part or yet to participate.” 

This idea kind of matches something that they would want us to do. It is very “artsy fartsy”, and may work as long as they don’t know the roots of this idea. 

Round 2:

“Trouble in Terrorist Town” and “Yoga”

This one was a lot easy to develop an idea for:

“There is a CGI cartoon animal on a screen, nervous and scared in a town ravaged by terrorists. You have to use Yoga to keep it clam. The project will use a variety of sensors, and can be used to alone or to assess the performance of an entire class. Bad results, will cause the character to panic and set on a landmine *Boom ;)“

This idea gamifies Yoga, which is good for one’s health. Overall, I actually like this idea; however this project would be very co$tly to do. 

Reflection:

To be honest, I barely learnt anything new. Like, I knew that pitching underdeveloped ideas are the fastest way to accelerate their development process. Thus, I decided to pitch my drunken fighter for studio; hoping that the feedback will help me finish the concepting.

The reason I barely learnt anything, was due to this being my third year here. We have done a bunch of activities like these and I’ve actually done the vast amounts of homework we were given throughout that time and put in a lot of effort to learn from them. I could only add some new insight,  if I had wagged class or put minimal effort over the years.

Myers-Briggs and Self Knowledge

Wait.... Before you say anything, I took a photo this time. 

Orange Postie

A year ago I would have said that I was a Starter. However, throughout last semester I learnt my true potential is unlocked when having to finish a project. Last semester, was the first time I was able to finish multiple projects. The creator is pretty obvious, especially with this course.  

Blue Postie

I’m close to the center, but pivot towards the world and interaction. I like to get engrossed into the worlds of a fictional medium and interact with it. The reason I enjoy games, is due to it being an escapism from the real where I can be someone else and being able to temporarily throw my problems aside. This is why I tend to be interested in game AI that makes players feel as though the world is real and reactive to their actions.  

Pink Postie

Nothing much to say here, I just really like these types of characters. E.g. Jason Todd ("Jason Todd | Batman Wiki | FANDOM powered by Wikia," n.d.). It may be due to their ability to do what’s right regardless of the cost. Basically, I feel that people like this are able to make the tough choices; with the most beneficial answers.  

Purple Postie

Sensation

Games that can do this are able to immerse the player and make them feel like they are someone, they are not. E.g. Metal Gear Rising, makes players feel powerful by making them forcing them to face off against giant monsters. The blade is emphasised by blade mode, where your blade actually feels like a blade that can cut something open. However, they keep players from getting bored by throwing in tough enemies that you cannot cut easily; upon weakening them the ability to cut returns. Thus, maintaining sensation without sacrificing difficulty.      

Fantasy

Going back to the “Blue Postie”, I like fantasy because it allows for escapism and glorifies it. My feelings towards this are also mentioned there.

Challenge

Obstacles that are able to interfere and cause the player to lose. Make the world feel more real and produce a sense of accomplishment on success. It’s pretty much the idea of feeling pain tells someone that they’re still alive. Overcoming, that pain excites us and fills our brain with dopamine.

(Zubek, LeBlanc, & Hunick, n.d.)

Green Postie

Last but not least, the Myers-Briggs test. For starters, I've done this test a lot throughout the last 2 years. Before, uni I was very shy and reserved; but I had never done the test. Hence, i do not know what I evolved from. 

I have always gotten ENTP-T. Yet, a couple of my classmates have experienced changes. So, I did the test again:

Results from April 2016:

The only noticeable changes are that, my perception and extroverted nature have increased.

I really like these tests, because you learn a lot more about yourself and are given guidance and tips for improvement for your weaknesses. Prior to this paper, I had tried to get the Myers-Briggs test results for anyone I have worked with.

References:

Jason Todd | Batman Wiki | FANDOM powered by Wikia. (n.d.). Retrieved July 25, 2017, from http://batman.wikia.com/wiki/Jason_Todd

PlatinumGames, (2013).  Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance [Video Game]. Konami Digital Entertainment

Zubek, R., LeBlanc, M., & Hunick, R. (n.d.). MDA: A Formal Approach to Game Design and Game Research. Retrieved from http://www.cs.northwestern.edu/~hunicke/MDA.pdf 

[garianleighton-anderson-blog]

GDM and Final Production Goings On

Last week we were on the clock to finalize our prototype to show off at the Game Development Meetup. We luckily basically built and tested everything based off Jomari’s and my designs by the Tuesday before GDM however, the game needed some finishing. 

Once I finished testing the hardware, I updated my arduino code to use button states so that it would only print information to the serial port if the buttons actually changed rather than constantly sending an ‘off’ command which is inefficient and could overload the serial port. Good last minute fix I reckon. The only problem was occasionally the right direction got stuck on ‘on’ even when you weren’t pressing the button. The way to fix this was just to press the button again. This was probably just an accidental double button press or something to do with the button. 

On the Wednesday the day before GDM I fixed a few issues with the level/collisions etc. I also added a main menu with a little story about the stars of Matariki being hidden and you had to find them. Everybody thought it was nice. 

At the GDM some of our hardware fell apart which lead us to pack up a little early but the general reception was very good but most people got frustrated with the jump pad. Someone suggested that it was the clumsyness of the jump pad but I think it’s due to the poor feet-eye coordination that most people have. It’s hard to control things with your feet and people are much better at manipulating things with their hands which is why almost everything in this world is operated by hand.

The day after GDM I fixed everything wrong with the hardware and we presented our final prototype to the class. Similar feedback as with the GDM and it allowed us to evaluate how well our project performed.

[dinomightofficial]

Making It. A Review

05/10/2018

What I did:

- Programming

- Soldering

- Construction

In the beginning:

Originally we had an ambitious idea with a game not too far from what we ended up making. However, with difficulties arising as production began (especially on my part) I had a huge amount of coding that I realized that I was incapable of doing in the short amount of time I had whilst I was also doing studio. So, in the long run it was mostly my shortcomings as a programmer that dictated our game rather than our play-testing and mechanics. Interestingly.

The Coding:

Eventually, once I realized the unrealistic coding demand and had to swap to a much simpler one the code was as simple as button pressed equals led and sound on. The actual coding was essentially just hard coded into the wiring. It  was wired in a way that pressing one button out of two buttons lit up one LED out of two as well as play sound. Easy.

Construction:

I didn’t have much of a budget to depend on as I did not want to invest too much money on a contraption that I assumed that I would make and keep after the presentation. Thus, materials used in “Constructing” the box was made out of scrap cardboard and hot glue to assemble. Cables, solder and other materials and modes of assembly were used from freely available tools found in the mechatronics lab in Studio.

Iterations:

There hasn’t been as many iterations as I would have liked. We did eventually get around to play-testing our game every time a new mechanic was introduced. However, we hardly play-tested with other people who are not familiar with our game. I now realize that this is a major downfall in our development and given more time with more passion within our own group for the game may have resulted in a more thoroughly tested outcome. The iterations that did come through during development were minute in change such as, time duration changes, height and construction changes and what not. Once our main game design changed, our iteration gradually crawled to a halt which in retrospect should not have happened. But to be completely honest I don’t think everyone in the group were quite as invested in the entire project anymore as they initially seemed to have.

Team Dynamics:

When the project was first conceptualized and everything up to the point of actually making the game, the group wasn’t so bad. Sure there could have been clear improvements made in the communication structure but in terms of actual content covered per group member was’t too bad. Once we had to actually make the damned thing only then did everything go to shit. Sorta.

On review, half of the group had seemed to have completely lost interest in our group project which made it difficult to progress on being productive. Contact during the semester break was also put on halt as well because I was in Brisbane during the break. During most of the actual making stages of the product Jet became ill and was unable to participate in group meetings and discussions which eventually led to just me, Tusa and Rachael being the only members still *attending class every week* to discuss our project. Even then, Tusa was also frequently occupied with other classes and his job that made contact less than ideal. Rachel was also very difficult to communicate with, often showing up late or not coming in at all to group meetings with no excuses. Tusa however was actually quite involved during group discussions and voiced his opinions whilst Jet had hardly any opinions what so ever earning him the nickname of ‘mediator’ and was sort of cool with whatever we decided to do. I did not have the urge to force ideas out of people as I feel that the creativity gets muddled during that process. Rachel however was not very involved during discussions and often seemed to rely on others to talk/do things for her. 

There were a lot of things that could have been improved, I have learnt now what not to do as team leader. I feel that partially the reason why I did such a horrible job as *Project Manager* was that it is only now that I realize that I had sort of held that title and the reason why I didn’t act like one for the entirety of the project was because I did not want to assume my role as project manager. I had little to no experience of holding that role in the past and as a result I realize now that I should have been more assertive, assigning roles to others who aren’t utilized and streamline production.

[sheenaatbct]

Game and Play Development Methodology

When you haven’t blogged in a few weeks...

So, after the “paper” prototype crit session, for which I was not present for due to playing at Uni nationals for Ultimate, we needed to get cracking into a proper prototype. 

Our roles essentially stayed the same. I mainly working on creating the physical aspect of our project with Jomari. I did want to assist with the game development as well as I was more interested in learning the programming side of creating a game, but that didn’t really happen, unfortunately. 

In terms of the physical stuff, we managed to source most of our materials from the Mechatronics Lab scrap pile (BCT Studio space). The only extra stuff we had to supply was some sponges, which Jomari bought, and some fabric for the drum, which I supplied. We worked with Samy and Garian on creating the buttons and drum in the Mechatronics Lab, which didn’t take too long to do with all this manpower.

In terms of the game, with Ashlee and Samy working on it, and my lack of knowledge of Unreal, there wasn’t much for me to do on this. What I did do was re-skin the character we had to make it less culturally insensitive(?). That probably took 4 hours just to go through each frame of each animation to change everything that Samy wanted to change. 

We showcased our work at the Game Development Meet-up on Thursday. I believe that it was a success for us! We wanted people to be able to talk and connect through the use of our installation, and they did! The only let-down was the buttons breaking on us half way through... But at least we figured out that our installation was a success.

Presenting today to the class (after fixing up our broken parts) was pretty good too, apart from realizing that we had forgotten to keep our design pillars in mind whilst completing our project. Despite that, I believe that we still succeeded with our design pillars, and we definitely had kept social confidence in the back of our minds as we created.  There is some disconnect from the game controller to the game theme, which we could have put more thought into. The novelty of the whole thing is not as novel as we would’ve liked. The drum was definitely a different take on controlling a game, however, the jump pad and arrow key buttons weren’t quite the same.

Overall though, our team worked really well together, holding weekly meetings to keep on track and communicating well through our group chat on Facebook. Getting used to using HacknPlan was definitely not easy, but it was a handy way to keep track of our progress and what needed to be done. 

[synergybct]

Once again, sick art by @charlesdbarker is now up on The Toolbox website. See it here: http://synergydigital.co.nz/toolbox/