Larry Shen
Level Design
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Using Level Design Strategies to Create Useful Non-Playable Character
Companions That Provide Effective Gameplay Value to the Player
The goal of this thesis project was to better understanding of player motivations
scenarios where an Artificial Intelligence- impact players’ sense of enjoyment.
examine best practices for creating level
controlled companion character can
support a player’s gameplay experience in
a positive, effective manner.
In my level artifact, the player helps the
survivor of a caravan attack retrieve a
precious piece of cargo from a derelict
underground facility. The player and
companion support each other through
combat, progression, and communication
as they tackle obstacles and uncover the
true nature of the facility they are in.
I worked on this project for seven
months. Over the course of the project,
I developed skills related to scenario
planning, gameplay scripting, pacing, and
combat balancing. I also developed a
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LEVEL DESIGN
and how different factors within the game
I decided upon this topic because I have
always wanted to create characters
that players can feel a strong emotional
connection towards, and creating a
companion that players develop gameplay
synergy with helps create that connection.
Many developers aspire to give players
memorable companion characters to
interact with, and I believe that thoroughly
iterating on best practices and design
scenarios on this front gives me the tools
needed to fulfill these creative visions.