2D DnD V.2 Level Design and Feedback

What went wrong?

• The parameters of this level was basically an enhanced version of the last one, leaving more room to create narrow corridors, puzzling entrances, and a challenge to find all the coins. Nothing particularly went wrong here so much as there was a distinct lack of atmosphere and the main sprite looks very creepily at you while it ice skates across your screen.

• With Game Maker, you have to be very precise when putting down walls and barriers as to fully keep the player in the level but I left one complete side out. This was all fixed before any real tests began but I should have caught it sooner. 

• One thing I would love to add is enemies and background noises. Having a pressure to find all the coins and get out of there before anyone catches you is a great incentive to master a level and replay until you get it right.

• Generally positive feedback because the level mixed a good challenge with the hide and go seek coins and the winding corridors of a maze.

What went right?

• Aesthetically, the map was totally immersive. Though game play is locked to WASD, simplicity  allows players to combine simple knowledge and find a shortcut. All the play testers chose the fastest way to get around corners and peek over walls for coins. This was great to see because the player feels like they are outsmarting you and are further immersed. 

• The duration of the map was sub two minutes so it was a quick maze which is good because the less mechanics you have to work with, the less levels need to offer to keep attention spans. No one wants to mindlessly hold down a button and wait for a second just to walk down a corridor, so I made turns very soon down every path.

• The end goal was easy to find and when the game was over there was a notion of relief after the player goes all through the maze and cant find the last coin.

What can be improved?

• I would like to add any ambient noises to be found to further the level of atmosphere. I would also like to have the sprite you control at least change the direction in which he is walking. The only things holding me back are really noises and interactive items. 

• If possible I would love to add enemies to add an extra level of scariness and tension because you never know when you can turn the corner and have there be a coin or something that will chase you until you die.

• Text dialogue. Honestly anything to help feel that you're in a western and meeting locals would give a sense of realism and purpose. For example your purpose isn't to just collect coins anymore, its to pick up the town grandma's loose change and bring it back or something. Even something like that I feel would bring the player in and stay attentive as you slide across the screen.