Game Art & Design Relfections

Gameplan: What Remains

01/30/26 

• What genre did this story feel like to you?

The story felt like a dark fantasy adventure, particularly in moments like the carved symbols on the trees and the glowing lantern that burns without fuel. It is filled with psychological tension and horror where danger wasn't always visible, but constantly implied - such as when the forest feels alive and watching, or when the trail vanishes behind you and there is "no going back." The Hollow introduces existential fantasy, where death is not an end but a question, shown by the silent Hollow Spirits asking if you wish to return. Survival elements appear during the shoreline and cliff sections, where physical exhaustion, blood, and slipping footing matter more than enemies. Finally, at the end of the game and it returns to the Lantern Rest, it reinforces a sense of inevitability and fate rather than traditional heroism or maybe  a different process altogether. Overall, the genre feels rooted in a haunting fantasy shaped by memory, loss, and persistence. 

• Did different sections remind you of different genres?

Yes, many sections strongly show different genres through their structure and tone. The shoreline exploration, where you find the spiral stone and carefully move along rocks and driftwood, felt like an exploration or environmental adventure game. The forest path with symbols carved into bark leaned toward folk horror, especially with the implication that something ancient makes the way. Barrel Hill felt more like an action or roguelike segment, with "waves," quick choices, and sudden failure leading to death. The Hollow shifted into surreal or cosmic horror, where the setting is abstract and the threat is philosophical rather than physical. Lantern Rest blends all these genres into a cohesive gameplay narrative. 

Life Cycle Reflection

02/02/26

• Why is it important for game developers like you to respect copyright and licensing rules when creating games?

Respecting copyright and licensing rules is important because it protects the work and rights of artists, programmers, writers, and other creators who contributed to the original content. When developers use assets, code, or ideas without permission, it can cause legal trouble that may shut down a game or a studio entirely. Following these rules also builds trust within the gaming community and shows professionalism. It encourages fair compensation, which helps creators continue making high quality content. Respecting licenses prevents plagiarism and promotes originality and innovation in game design.  Lastly, it sets a positive example for players and future developers about proper rules and behavior in the industry. 

Unreal Navigation Reflection

02/08/26

• What similarities and differences do you see between Autodesk 3ds Max and Unreal Engine?

Autodesk 3ds Max and Unreal engine are similar because they both work with 3D objects, environments, lighting, and cameras. In both programs, you need to understand how 3D space works in order to place and edit objects correctly. However 3ds Max is mainly focused on creating and modeling 3D assets from scratch. Unreal Engine is more focused on building real-time scenes, environments, and interactive experiences using those assets. Another difference is that Unreal Engine renders everything in real time, while 3ds Max is usually used for pre-rendered images or animations. Unreal also includes gameplay and engine tools that 3ds Max does not have. Overall, they are connected, but used for different stages of 3D workflow. 

• How well do you feel learning 3D modeling last year prepared you for working in the Unreal Engine?

Learning 3D modeling last year prepared me fairly well for working in Unreal Engine. I already understand basic concepts like shapes, scale, textures, and how 3D models are built. Also knowing how lighting and materials work in 3D spaces helped me feel less overwhelmed. However, Unreal Engine still feels very different because of its many tools and real-time features. Even with modeling experience, there was still a learning curve. Overall, learning 3D modeling gave me a strong foundation. 

• What did you find most challenging, and how did you work through it?

So far, the most challenging part about Unreal Engine is learning how to use the new tools it has.  Additionally, learning how to move through Unreal Engine has been very difficult at times. The controls and camera movement felt confusing at first compared to 3ds Max. However, right now I am slowly getting myself more comfortable with moving through Unreal by practicing in class. I am also learning how to use the tools as I go through with each project assigned. Working step by step has helped me feel less confused. With more practice, the tools and movements are starting to make more sense. 

Inclined Planes Reflection

02/10/26

What did you learn about problem-solving when your first setup didn’t work as expected?

When my first setup didn't work, I reminded myself that problem-solving requires patience and experimentation.  At first, I tried stretching out the inclined plane to give the ball more runway, but it still went into the A bucket. That showed me that making something longer doesn't always change the outcome. Then I adjusted the steepness of the plane, which gave the ball more momentum and finally went into the B bucket. When I was working on the C bucket, I needed to realign the plane because while rotating it was completely off.  After correcting its position and adjusting the steepness again, the ball made it into the bucket on the first try. This experience taught me small changes and learning from previous attempts can make a big difference in solving problems. 

Levers Reflection

02/11/26

Wedges Reflection

02/11/26

• What did you learn about controlling chaos when working with multiple watermelons and buckets?

When I was working with multiple watermelons and buckets, I learned that I needed to carefully observe to be able to control the chaos. Instead of constantly moving the objects around without knowing whether the last position would give me the outcome I wanted, I realized it is better to wait and test each setup first.  By letting the animation play out I could see what was actually happening rather than guessing. So, repeatedly playing the animations  gave me helpful hints about where adjustments were needed. Overall, I learned that planning, testing, and observing are more effective than randomly changing everything at once. 

• In what ways can experimenting with physics in UE5 help you think differently about solving problems in real life?

Experimenting with physics in UE5 can change the way I approach real-life problem solving by encouraging experimentation and critical thinking. When working in the engine, I can quickly see how small adjustments in force, mass, or position can create very different outcomes. This teaches me to think about cause and effect more carefully. It also shows the importance of testing ideas instead of assuming they will work. just like in real life, solving a problem often requires trial and error and learning from mistakes. By observing how systems interact in UE5, it can help me develop a mindset that focuses on analysis, patience, and creative solutions. 

Extension Challenge

Wheel & Axle Reflection

02/12/26

Pulleys Reflection

02/12/26

Screws Reflection

02/13/26

• How could combining Splines, Screws, and Dominoes allow for more creative chain reactions than using them separately?

Combining splines, screws, and dominoes in Unreal Engine allows for more detailed and complex chain reactions. A spline ramp can guide the orange smoothly toward the screw mechanism. The screw can then convert that rolling motion into pushing that orange. Then the orange knocks over dominoes, continuing the reaction all across the table. Lastly, the domino finally goes into the bucket. Using all three together creates multiple motion changes within one sequence. This results in a more dynamic and creative design than using each element on its own.

Design Your Rube Goldberg Reflection

02/16/26

Analyzing Games Reflection

02/16/26

Analyzing Mechanics Reflection

02/22/26

How can simple mechanics lead to complex gameplay?

Simple mechanics can lead to complex gameplay because basic rules can combine to create many different outcomes. In Tetris, players only rotate and place falling blocks, yet the limited space and increasing speed force the players to think ahead and adapt quickly. Over time, players develop advanced strategies like setting up combos or leaving space for long pieces. In Rocket League, the mechanics are driving, jumping, and boosting, but players use these simple controls to do aerial shots and coordinated team plays. Even small adjustments in timing or angle can completely change the result of a play. In LEGO Fortnite, gathering materials and building structures are simple actions, but players can design detailed bases and survival systems. These examples show that when simple mechanics interact, they create depth and challenges without needing complicated rules. 

Why is it useful to understand game mechanics when analyzing or reviewing a game?

Understanding game mechanics helps you explain why a game feels enjoyable or frustrating instead of just giving an opinion. When you know how the mechanics work, you can point out what specifically makes the game engaging. For example, the speed increase in Tetris creates pressure and excitement, while Rocket League’s physics system rewards skill and practice. This knowledge also helps you evaluate whether a game is balanced and fair. If a mechanic feels broken or confusing, you can clearly explain the problem. It also allows you to see how different systems support the overall goal of the game. This is why understanding mechanics helps you describe what works in a game and why it creates a certain experience for players.

Exploring Moods Reflection

02/23/26

Analyzing Fairness Reflection

02/25/26

Player Behavior & Cheating 

Player Behavior & Cheating is about how players act in a game and if they choose to follow the rules. Cheating happens when someone uses a bug, glitch, or outside program to gain an unfair advantage. In the lesson, they discussed a bug that lets you shoot without reloading, which removes an important challenge from the game. This is unfair because other players still have to reload normally, and it can make matches one sided and frustrating. When one player ignores the rules, it ruins the balance and makes the game less fun for everyone. Fair player behavior means playing honestly, not exploiting mistakes, and reporting bugs when they find them. Fairness helps make sure everyone has an equal chance and keeps the game fun.

Game Example (Street Fighter) 

In Street Fighter, player behavior is very important because the game is based on skill, timing, and strategy. If a player used a hacked controller to press buttons faster than a human normally could, that would be cheating. It would give them an unfair advantage over their opponent and could ruin the competitive experience. Fair players practice combos, learn strategies, and respect the rules of the game. Cheating not only affects the match outcome but can also make other players feel mad and quit. When players behave fairly, matches stay competitive and enjoyable on both sides. Overall, respecting player behavior ensures that winning is based on skill, not unfair tricks or exploits.

Unit Introduction Reflection

02/26/26

What is the difference between a Static Mesh and a Blueprint in the Content Drawer? 

A Static Mesh is a 3D object that has no logic or behavior attached to it. It can be placed in the world and interacted with physically, such as walking on it, but it does not perform any actions on its own. For example, floating island platforms or a decorative key found in the Static Mesh folder are just visual objects. A Blueprint, on the other hand, is a class that contains both a visual object and programmed logic that controls behavior. Blueprint objects can respond to player input and trigger events in the game. For instance, the key Blueprint can be picked up and used to unlock a door, while a coin Blueprint disappears when collected. In short, Static Meshes are visual only assets, while Blueprints add functionality to those assets.

How do you navigate to and open the correct map for building your game, and what is the name of the level you will be editing?

To open the correct map, I will need to first open the Content Drawer in Unreal Engine. Inside the project, there are several main folders, including Block Game, Hour of Code, Learning Kit Games, and Learning Kit Robots. For this unit, I will mainly work inside the Hour of Code folder. Within that folder, I can locate the appropriate level file that I will use to build the game. Opening the correct map ensures that I am editing the correct level rather than the default showcase level. It also makes sure that all assets and Blueprints function properly within the intended game environment.

What problem does the player encounter when pressing play in the default level, and what will students need to add in the next lesson to solve it?

When first opening the project and pressing Play, there are shader related errors because the project was originally built for Unreal Engine 5.1 while the current version being used is 5.5. The error messages indicate that Shader Model 6 must be enabled in the project settings. After enabling SM6 and restarting the engine, the errors are resolved. In terms of gameplay, some interactive elements, such as the key Blueprint, are not fully functional yet. For example, the key may exist visually but does not properly unlock a door without additional logic. In the next lesson, students will probably need to edit or add Blueprint code to make certain objects function correctly. This will allow gameplay mechanics, such as unlocking doors or triggering events, to work as correctly.

Collision Detection Reflection

02/27/26

 Why can't the computer just use the static meshes to handle collisions?

Static meshes are usually very detailed and contain many complex angles. If the computer had to calculate collisions using every detail of a mesh, it would require a lot more processing power. Since games run at around 60 frames per second, the engine must perform collision checks extremely quickly. Using complex mesh geometry for every collision would slow the game down and can cause it to lag, while simplified collision shapes are much cheaper to calculate. For example, a capsule collision around a character is far easier than detecting contact with every small part of the character’s model. Overall, static meshes are too complicated to use. 

What was the hardest part to understand about collision detection?

The hardest part to understand about collision detection is realizing that the visible model is not what actually controls physical interaction. It can be confusing to learn that an invisible shape determines where the player stands and moves. At first, it seems logical that the detailed mesh should handle collisions automatically. While understanding why simplified shapes are necessary for performance takes a bit to sink in. It can also be tricky to grasp how different collision types, like simple and complex collisions, affect gameplay and performance. Visualizing invisible collision boundaries inside the engine can feel odd at first. However, once I realized collision objects are just for efficiency, the system made much more sense.

Pro Reviews Reflection

03/03/26

What surprised you most when comparing two professional reviews of the same game?

What surprised me most when comparing the two professional reviews was how similar their overall conclusions were, even though they emphasized different strengths and weaknesses. Both GameSpot and IGN agreed that Crash Team Rumble is fun and deeper than it first appears, despite first sounding like a risky concept. For example, GameSpot focused more on teamwork, communication, and the game’s “high skill ceiling,” while IGN paid closer attention to map design and character balance. Also IGN seemed more focused negatively on the unlock system and certain overpowered characters, whereas GameSpot was more concerned about pricing and the size of the player base. It was interesting to see how the same game could be praised for depth in one review while being criticized for imbalance in another. This shows that professional reviews can align in overall opinion but still differ in priorities and perspective.

How can reviewing two different opinions help you become a better game reviewer or designer yourself?

Reviewing two different opinions can help me become a better game reviewer or designer because it teaches me to look at a game from multiple angles. One reviewer may focus on mechanics and balance, while another may analyze community impact or long term replay value. Seeing these differences reminds me that games are complex and can be experienced differently depending on the player’s expectations. As a reviewer, comparing perspectives encourages me to support my claims with clear examples and think critically about both strengths and flaws. As a designer, it shows how small systems - like unlock requirements or matchmaking options - can really affect player enjoyment. By Analyzing multiple viewpoints, it helps me develop a more balanced and thoughtful approach to evaluating or creating games.

Islands Reflection

03/04/26

If you had more time to work on the animations, what would you do to improve and make them more interesting?

With more time, I would experiment with more complex motion patterns instead of simple back and forth movement. For example, platforms could move along curved paths, change height mid cycle, or rotate/scale to increase difficulty. Adjusting speed - like gradually accelerating or slowing down - could create more tension and variety. I would also refine easing curves in the sequencer to make the movement feel more natural and less mechanical. I would also like to try adding subtle secondary animations, like slight tilting when the player lands, would increase realism and challenge for the player. Finally, putting visual or audio cues to signal movement timing could improve both gameplay and immersion.

Power Ups Reflection

03/04/26

Coins Reflection

03/05/26

How could we improve the level to make it even more satisfying to collect coins?

We could improve the level by placing coins in interesting patterns that guide players through jumps or hidden paths. Adding special or rare coins that give bigger rewards would make collecting them feel more exciting. The game could also include different types of sound effects or visual effects when coins are collected. Furthermore, increasing the number of hidden, secret areas would explore and reward curious players. Another improvement could be adding combo bonuses when players collect several coins quickly in a row. Coins could also be placed near challenging obstacles so players feel rewarded for taking risks. These changes would make collecting coins feel more fun and meaningful.

Pickup Indicator Reflection

03/06/26

Door Key Reflection

03/06/26

Overview Reflection

03/09/26

Level Setup Reflection

03/09/26

Sculpting Tools Reflection

03/11/26

End Goal Reflection

03/12/26

What did you learn about how data is passed between blueprints and widgets?

I learned that widgets don’t automatically know the state of the game, such as how many coins or gems the player has collected. Instead, they get this information from the game mode, which keeps track of all important game variables. When the player reaches the end goal, the end goal blueprint creates the widget and tells it to fetch data from the game mode. The values, such as integers for coins or gems, are converted into text so they can be displayed on the UI. This process allows the widget to show up to date information without directly changing the game logic. It also shows that data is passed intentionally between blueprints and widgets rather than automatically.

Landscape Sculpting Reflection

03/13/26

If you could improve one part of your terrain, what would you change and why?

If I could improve one part of the terrain, it would be the water area and the edges around it. Right now, some of the edges are still a bit sharp and obvious, which breaks the natural feel of the landscape. I need to spend more time smoothing these edges and maybe add some variation to the shoreline to make it look more realistic and less flat. Improving these details would help both the visual appeal and the gameplay experience by making the environment feel more polished and immersive. It would also help with the flow of the level, guiding the player more naturally toward the challenges ahead. Overall, focusing on the subtle details around the water would make the terrain feel more complete.

Paint Landscape Reflection

03/13/26

Path & Checkpoints Reflection

03/17/26

How did you use natural barriers and paths to guide the player through your world?

I used the terrain and environmental design to direct the player without forcing them. For example, I painted a clear paving stone path that winds through the landscape, visually guiding players toward objectives and checkpoints. The path curves a little instead of going straight making the movement feel more natural. Grass and open areas contrast with the path, helping it stand out as the “correct” route. Objects like signposts, small stands, and props reinforce direction by drawing attention to key areas. Altogether, these elements work to guide the player automatically rather than relying on specific instructions.

What choices did you make to make your checkpoints unique?

I made each checkpoint feel distinct by changing the surrounding props and layout instead of reusing the exact same setup. For example, one checkpoint includes a small resting area with a table, chairs, and food items, while another could have different objects like campfires or more food items. I also adjusted positioning, rotation, and scale of objects to give each checkpoint a different visual feel. Adding environmental storytelling - like a messy table or fallen chair - helps each location feel lived in and unique. Even though I duplicated a base checkpoint for efficiency, I customized each one afterward to avoid too much repetition. I also varied terrain textures, such as gravel patches, to differentiate checkpoint zones from regular paths. These small changes help each checkpoint feel like a new place and not a copy.

Trees & Plants Reflection

03/17/26

Build a Castle Reflection

03/19/26

Lights & Flickering Reflection

03/20/26

How did flickering light change the feeling of your castle compared to static light?

Flickering light makes the castle feel alive and not artificial or frozen in time. With static lighting, everything looks staged, like a screenshot instead of a living environment. When the light subtly shifts in brightness, it mimics real fire behavior, which adds realism. The changing intensity also creates gentle movement across walls and surfaces, making the space feel more dynamic. This kind of lighting introduces mood - shadows deepen and soften in a way that can feel eerie or cozy. It also naturally draws the player’s attention because the eye is attracted to motion and contrast. By having flickering light, it changed the stiff environment into something believable. 

Why do you think it’s important to add variation between different light sources?

If all light sources behave identically, the scene quickly feels repetitive and unnatural. In real life, no two flames flicker in perfect sync, so variation helps sell it as the real deal. Adding differences in speed, intensity, and timing makes each light feel like an independent source. It also enhances visual interest to the player. Variation can even help guide gameplay by making certain areas feel more active or important. In short, diversity in lighting behavior adds more depth and realism into the scene. 

Castle Village Reflection

03/27/26

Creative Expanse Reflection 

04/09/26

How does your change connect to one of today’s essential questions?

The changes I made in my village show my creativity through the use of different props to build an engaging story, while keeping the environment visually interesting for players. I used items, such as barrels, to create statues and small displays that help tell the story of the village. The displays focus on a theme of cannibalism, which is revealed through different clues placed around the village. For example, I added wanted posters and designed a crime where an outlaw robbed people of gold while riding a horse and threatening them with a knife. The story continues through other displays, including a butcher house, gravediggers, and a human hotpot. By combining these props, I created a compelling narrative while also encouraging players to explore the village. Overall, the storyline and environment work together to make my world unique and engaging.

Challenges Intro Reflection 

04/10/26

Sweeper Arm Reflection 

04/13/26

How does this first obstacle set the tone for the rest of the challenges?

This first obstacle sets the tone by teaching the player that timing and awareness are important to progress. It introduces the idea that the environment itself is a threat, not just something to waltz through. The Sweeper Arm can knock the player into the water and shows clear consequences for mistakes right away. It tells that players will need to observe patterns and adapt rather than rush in blindly. The use of ragdoll on failure reinforces that mistakes will be visually impactful and sometimes chaotic. Altogether, it prepares the player for increasingly harder obstacles while setting expectations for the game’s pace and difficulty.

Narrow Path Reflection 

04/13/26

What adjustments did you make to balance challenge and frustration?

To make the obstacle more challenging, I added sweeper arms around smaller landing props like barrels, which forces the player to be more precise with movement and timing. I increased the spacing between jumps so they are harder to reach, while still making sure they are possible to reach. I also created a tightrope style path using pitchforks that players must carefully cross while a pendulum swings nearby. This adds pressure and requires the player to be focused. I included a hidden knife in a log that can kill the player if they are not paying attention. Additionally, I increased the rotation speed of the sweeper arms toward the end of the level to raise the difficulty. While these additions increase frustration, they make the level more rewarding and fun to master. 

Boulders Reflection 

04/15/26

Timed Gate Reflection 

04/16/26

What adjustments would you make to the open duration to balance difficulty?

To balance difficulty, the open duration should be based on both the length and complexity of the path between gates. A shorter duration increases difficulty, but can frustrate players if success feels barely achievable. A longer duration makes the challenge more forgiving, which can be useful early on or for teaching the mechanic. I could adjust it based on testing - if most players fail at a specific point, slightly increasing the duration can smooth the experience. However, the key is to ensure that success feels earned but not overly punishing.

How can timing-based obstacles increase tension without feeling unfair?

Timing-based obstacles can increase tension effectively when players feel they have enough information and control to succeed. Clear visual and audio cues - like the gate opening, a countdown sound, or the lever animation - help players understand exactly when the timer starts. Consistency is also important; the timing should behave predictably so players can learn and improve. Giving players a small margin for error, rather than requiring perfect execution, helps avoid frustration. It’s also helpful to design the path so mistakes feel like the player’s fault, not the system’s. Overall, timing challenges create excitement without crossing into unfairness when done correctly. 

Abandoned Village Reflection 

04/22/26

What changes did you make to balance the gate duration with the path length?

To balance the gate duration with the path length, I adjusted both the timer and the layout rather than relying on just one variable. The original five second timer was way too short, so I increased it to around 20 to 30 seconds to give enough room for experimentation. Testing runs were essential, since small tweaks to jump distances or obstacle placement had a big impact on completion time. At the same time, I refined the path by removing overly long detours and tightening unnecessary gaps between obstacles. In the end, this created a fair balance where the challenge feels demanding but achievable.

Enemy Tower Reflection 

04/23/26

Why does adding a visible enemy in the tower make the mechanic more immersive?

Adding a visible enemy in the tower improves immersion by giving context to the attacks. Instead of projectiles appearing from nowhere, players can clearly see the source of the threat. This aligns player expectations with game logic, making the experience feel more believable. It also adds personality to the level, making encounters feel more interesting and less mechanical. Visual cues like arm positioning or held objects reinforce how the attack works. Altogether, a visible enemy strengthens both the narrative and gameplay clarity of the mechanic.

Predict Movement Reflection 

04/23/26

Tower & Potion Reflection 

04/23/26

Guarded Marketplace Reflection 

05/18/26

Where did overlapping sight cones create the right kind of tension and where did it become unfair?

Overlapping sight cones created the right kind of tension when they were carefully placed and properly tested throughout the challenge area. Players are pressured to stay alert while still having a fair chance to react and move through the section. Adding at least two props as blockers helped balance the challenge because players could use them as temporary cover while planning their next move. This makes the gameplay feel more strategic instead of random or impossible. However, the overlapping cones became unfair when too many potions were launched at the same time, making it nearly impossible for players to pass. This can make it stop feeling like a challenge and instead become frustrating because players had little room to avoid damage. Overall, the balance worked best when players felt pressured, but still had a chance to get through.