Composition Strategies to Motivate Player Exploration
Baoze“ Wilbur”
Baoze“ Wilbur” WANG
Level Design
Composition Strategies to Motivate Player Exploration
For my thesis project, I explored how composition strategies in level design can influence player motivation to explore open world environments. I chose this topic because I’ ve always been fascinated by how visual elements can guide and encourage player behavior without relying on explicit UI or quest markers. My goal was to expand on existing theories, particularly those from Mateusz Piaskiewicz, and to test their practical application in a level that I built using the Exodus SDK for Metro Exodus, a game known for its minimal Heads-Up Display and immersive design.
players naturally through a 20-30 minute custom level. Through this process, I developed skills in visual composition, player behavior analysis, and data-driven iteration.
This project has real value for the video game industry, especially as open world games become more prevalent. By applying visual design principles effectively, designers can reduce reliance on intrusive UI and create more immersive and engaging exploration experiences for players.
The project took several months to complete, involving research, level planning, blockout design, implementation of composition techniques, and multiple rounds of playtesting. I focused on techniques such as framing, sight angles, landmarks, and pinch points to guide
46 LEVEL DESIGN