Development Description:
Having developed a keen interest in level design, I decided to focus my final year project and exhibit on investigating how fundamental design techniques are used to effectively introduce players to game mechanics through intuitive level design, primarily with the use of linear & non-linear environments, asset placement, pacing, signifiers and narrative. In addition to exploring the concepts of applying the different theories of interaction, such as forced, presumed and prompted action, in a virtual space.
Through the production of my prototype, I gained a more in-depth understanding of the differing methods used in level design to effectively teach the player vital information about the game. Specifically, the importance of narrative, environment structure, genre and pacing, as well as how perceivable information must be when applied to a scenario where the intention is to educate the player or require them to engage in an action.
Whilst developing my prototype, a third person, a stylized SCI-FI action platformer, I researched, iterated upon and implemented existing techniques from well-established and renowned games, as well as using my own ideas, to create a set of levels that not only engages the player, but provides them with a consistent set of enjoyable interactions, which aims to develop their game-play decisions as the prototype unfolds. In addition, the project also allowed me to further develop my technical skills in UE4, as I aimed to challenge myself by adding more complex action sequences and obstacles within the game.
Game-Play Trailer:
(Music: Ratchet & Clank Mix)
Portfolio:
Dozer & Sparks – Level Images
About Me
Course/Pathway:
BA Computer Games Design – Modules Studied: Mission Design, Game Prototyping, Game Design and Mechanics, Non-Digital Game Development, Production and Project Management, Game Asset Creation, User Interface Design, Game Futures (Research Paper), Games Writing and multiple group based development projects.
Biography:
I am currently studying a BA in Computer Game Design at Teesside University, predicted to graduate with 1st class honours. During my time retraining, I have developed a portfolio that highlights my ability to produce high quality results, from initial concept to completion. Additionally, by effectively applying skills acquired from previous employment , I have successfully lead, motivated and supported team members during group projects. During my educational experience, I have achieved a high level of competence in relevant industry software and associated tools and look forward to contributing to exciting new projects in the future.
My Portfolio:
https://www.jamesandreolidesign.com/
Software and Hardware Skills:
Software: Unreal Engine 4 (Technical blueprinting and level construction), Maya 3D, 3DS Max, Substance Painter, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Office Software, Audacity, Vegas Movie Studio (and other video editing software), Source Control (UE4, GitHub, GitLab, SourceTree).
Hardware: Primarily based on the PC platform for both work and pleasure, in addition to various console platforms – Working knowledge of industry level video and audio recording hardware.
Employment:
Currently looking for my first opportunity in the games industry following 4 years of re-training. Having previously been self-employed and a paid employee in various different industries, I developed a wide range of organisational, leadership and soft skills which are easily transferable to a studio setting.
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Academic Experience: Lead Designer – Beta Arcade Module (2019) – ‘Within These Walls’ – As Lead Designer for the Beta Arcade module, I managed a 7 strong design team, alongside a producer, as well as communicating constantly with the teams small group of artists – widening my knowledge of the pipelines of multiple disciplines and how they work together to achieve a polished product.
Interests:
Academic/Industry Interests: Level design, signifiers and methods of educating the player.
Personal Interests: Skiing, Mountain Biking, Hill Walking, Gym, Playing Computer Games, Medieval History, Problem Solving.
