SS PROTEUS
ROLE: LEVEL & GAMEPLAY DESIGNER
STATUS: COMPLETED ACADEMIC PRODUCTION
SS Proteus is a level design project focused on player-driven exploration within a structured objective-based environment. The level supports multiple traversal routes and encourages spatial decision-making through environmental layout, landmark placement, and encounter pacing.
The project focuses on how level composition and mechanic integration can guide player behavior while maintaining a sense of agency and discovery.
DESIGN FOCUS
Key design priorities included:
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Supporting multiple approaches to a single objective.
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Encouraging exploration through spatial layering and route variation.
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Using environmental landmarks to guide player navigation.
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Structuring pacing through controlled encounter placement.
RESPONSIBILITIES
My contributions included:
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Designed overall level layout and traversal pathways.
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Implemented gameplay spaces and mechanics within Unreal Engine.
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Structured encounter flow to support varied player strategies.
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Conducted playtests to refine navigation clarity and pacing.
LEVEL & MECHANICS APPROACH
The level was designed to create sustained tension through constrained visibility, spatial uncertainty, and controlled progression pacing. Environmental composition and lighting contrast were used to influence player movement while maintaining a sense of vulnerability during exploration.
Multiple traversal routes were integrated to encourage player-driven decision-making. Core interaction mechanics such as environmental access tools and defensive equipment were positioned strategically to reinforce progression goals and create moments of risk-reward evaluation.
Spatial sequencing was structured to alternate between high-tension encounters and brief recovery spaces, supporting a gameplay rhythm that balanced suspense with forward momentum.
DESIGN CHALLENGES
My contributions included:
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Maintaining clear navigation while offering multiple traversal options.
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Preventing players from feeling lost in open exploration spaces.
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Balancing level scale with engagement pacing.
DESIGN ITERATION & KEY LEARNINGS
Early playtests indicated that players often struggled to identify optimal traversal routes due to insufficient environmental guidance. Refining landmark visibility and adjusting spatial composition improved navigation clarity while preserving exploratory freedom.
The project reinforced how level structure and mechanic placement must work together to support meaningful player choice without compromising pacing.