Week 2 Summary

Here is a summarized review of what happened this week

Milestones Achieved 🏆

• Completed initial project setup with assets and C++ classes
• Resolved bugs related to body part count and building errors
• Got core gameplay mechanics working
• Recorded video showcasing the operation part of the game
• Discovered new Motion Matching animations for future use
• Refactored interactable actors with a base class
• Finished setting up level blockout and Necromancer Master
• Completed player controller setup and asset consolidation

Work in Progress 🚧

• Reviewing previous classes for consistency
• Setting up zombie platform checks
• Creating Niagara system to identify main coffin
• Adding lights and outlines for interactable objects
• Manually inputting INDEX for "Check Body Part" function
• Relocating out-of-bounds body parts
• Exploring Motion Matching animations
• Setting up Operation Game mode and refactoring PlayerPawn
• Creating level section for operation game
• Handling off-map body parts and altering main player
• Setting up input actions for operation mode

Bug Fixes

• Resolved body part count bug by refactoring functions
• Fixed building errors
• Addressed physics handle issue when items are destroyed
• Prevented body parts from flying away out-of-bounds
• Fixed overlay material bug with nanite by disallowing nanite
• Resolved velocity issue when resetting body part locations

Design Notes 📝

• Considering "absorbing" zombie essence or explosion mechanics
• Planning to use OpenGate/CloseGate blueprint events
• Tweaked main player light to be more ambient
• Considering static player or WASD movement after selection
• Using material overlays for visual feedback
• Exploring color-coding for Necromancer Master states
• Potentially combining Operation and MainGame on same map

Technical Challenges 🧩

• Ensuring correct body part count without duplicates
• Avoiding "Get all actors of class" for performance
• Optimizing Niagara system for main coffin identification
• Optimizing light setup for main player and coffins
• Modularizing "Check Body Part" function
• Handling physics when items are destroyed
• Creating dynamic material instances
• Refactoring dependencies between modes
• Researching mode transition methods
• Ensuring mediators track everything correctly

Reflections and Next Steps 🔍

• Revisit Mediator Interface, consider using delegates
• Implement checks for previous classes
• Explore zombie platform mechanics
• Recheck Niagara system and add outline effects
• Limit player movement or make static
• Implement material overlays
• Create Cpp version of Operation Game
• Translate functions to delegates
• Account for existing PNNF functionality
• Add SFX, VFX, and audio story
• Replace blockout with actual assets
• Consolidate dependencies and assets
• Ensure no Engine Content usage

Resources and References 📚

• Unreal Engine Documentation
• GameDev.TV Ultimate C++ course
• Previous project files

Tags 🏷️

#GameplayMechanic #Performance #BugFix
#Blueprints #Cpp #UI/UX #Lighting
#NiagaraSystem #PhysicsHandle #MaterialOverlay
#DynamicMaterial #MotionMatching #PlayerController
#AssetManagement #MediatorPattern #PhysicsSimulation