[2023.10.28] The Art of Detail in Video Games: Enhancing Immersion Through Subtle Animation


I always find it truly exciting when video games prioritize attention to detail. This could manifest in the meticulous programming of animations or behaviors that, while seemingly inconsequential to the core gameplay, significantly contribute to enhancing the player experience. I'm sure many of you have encountered similar aspects in games. Often, we don't consciously notice the intricate nuances of what's happening on the screen, but our brains pick up on these subtleties and, in turn, influence our overall gaming experience.

Let me illustrate this concept with a specific example from my own game. In a battle against the second end-boss, this formidable adversary possesses the ability to launch rockets. Naturally, these rockets should exit the launching platform, and it would be quite jarring if the platform remained stocked with rockets. Initially, that's exactly how I had programmed it, but the outcome left much to be desired. The movements somehow appeared unnatural and disrupted the overall flow.

To resolve this issue, a comprehensive overhaul of the boss's animation was necessary. First and foremost, I had to re-model the rockets and save them as separate in-game objects. Now, when rockets are launched, the launching platform is entirely empty, ensuring a realistic portrayal. After a few seconds, the platform begins to reload, a process that is visually evident. Only when the platform is replenished can additional rockets be fired. This solution not only provides players with a more realistic gaming experience but also serves as a visual cue, warning them that new rockets will be fired shortly. The in-game video vividly demonstrates how the rockets smoothly emerge from the platform, adding to the player's immersion.

Get FirstStrike - (Arcade Shoot'em Up)

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