Game Design: What Makes a Development Team? (Introduction to Game Design) by Ortus Publishing

Author:Ortus Publishing [Publishing, Ortus]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2018-02-19T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 8: The Level Editor

The level editor is responsible for the definition and creation of an interactive architecture for certain parts of the game and this can include objects, buildings or landscapes. The level editor must:

● Demonstrate excellent layout design and spatial awareness skills

● Have excellent knowledge of the principles of game design and of 3D modeling

● Be able to visualize any layout

● Have an understanding of both scripting and programming languages so that they can work with the programmers and artists – this understanding must be practical, not just theory

● Have the ability to train up the quality assurance testers to play the game as it should be played

● Demonstrate competence and skills in IT, particularly in using tools for world-editing

● Have extensive knowledge of all the different platforms

● Be extremely organized

● Be able to take and give direction

● Have a good imagination and be creative

● Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills

● Be proficient in evaluating quality and paying attention to detail

● Be passionate about games and very knowledgeable in the theory of game design

● Be well aware of the relevant procedures and legislation regarding health and safety

What a Level Editor Does

Level editors are deeply involved in the definition and creation of architecture, particularly interactive, for a set part of the game. The work they do must be in the same vein as the design of the entire game, which means using elements and characters that the designer has produced. However, they tend to have more freedom when it comes to the level they are working on, in the respect that they can vary the feel and look of it. They are responsible for the definition of the environment, lighting, level space layout, forms, and textures, as well as the characters and the objects, be they controlled by the player or not, along with any behaviors of the object or character.

They are also responsible for the level gameplay development, including any challenges that each character will face, and any actions needed to get over those challenges. The interactive architecture the level editor produces defines the individual challenges through the presentation of obstacles, hiding places, skill tests, and lots of other elements that a player can interact with. The level editor will also create the atmosphere and the settings, providing help to the players in the form of clues about how to get through a level and through the game.

First, the idea will be hand drawn on paper or the editor will use 2D software. To do this, they must first imagine the experience, put themselves in the seat of the player and draw out all possibilities. Next, they move on to 3D and, once the ideas have been worked out, they are then tested in the game's engine, resulting in more ideas. The level editor will consult with artists and programmers to come up with an inventory of all the assets for the level – the programming requirements that will run the level as it should be in the final game.

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