Level Design - 2D Game

In my Level Design course, I undertook a month-long 2D level development project using Unity, following professional game development methodologies. The process began with extensive pre-production, including mechanical prototyping and conceptualization. I created a paper map to experiment with flow and pacing before implementation. The white boxing phase involved blocking out the basic geometry and collision while testing how the core gameplay mechanics fit within the level. Playtesting sessions with external players followed this to gather crucial feedback on navigation, difficulty ramping, and player engagement. I refined the level layout, pacing, and challenge progression through multiple rounds of focused iteration based on playtest data. The final deliverable was a polished level demonstrating good use of space utilization, player guidance techniques, and appropriate challenges.

Prototyping and Sandbox

This project began with an extensive prototyping phase where I developed and iteratively refined the primary-level mechanics. I implemented fundamental features, including player movement systems, environmental interactions, and combat mechanics, thoroughly testing each component in isolation. I constructed a focused sandbox environment to validate these mechanics' cohesion as a practical proving ground. This testing space allowed me to observe how different gameplay elements interacted with each other and identify potential issues early in development.

Paper Map

Following the sandbox phase, I moved into detailed pre-production by developing a comprehensive paper map. I refined the level's core layout and flow through multiple iterations until reaching an optimal design. The final map documented crucial elements, including player critical paths, difficulty progression curves, and strategic enemy/key object placement. Each challenge and encounter was carefully positioned to build upon previously learned mechanics while maintaining engaging pacing. The map also detailed multiple routes, shortcuts, and minimal backtracking, ensuring a well-balanced player experience that rewarded exploration while pushing the player through the level at a decent pace.

White Boxing, Refining, and Final Level

With the paper map as my foundation, I proceeded to white box the level in Unity. This phase prioritized rapidly implementing the primary gameplay mechanics to create a functional, playable build. The initial first pass adhered to the paper design's layout and flow, allowing minor adjustments. After conducting playtest sessions with this early build, gathering crucial feedback on player engagement, difficulty balance, and navigation clarity. Each piece of player feedback was evaluated and prioritized based on its potential impact on overall level quality. After implementing key playtest-driven refinements, I moved into final production, adding environmental details, visual polish, and atmospheric elements to enhance the player experience while maintaining the level's core mechanical integrity.

Reflection

This Unity 2D level design project demonstrated my systematic approach to game development, from initial concept to polished final product. Beginning with focused mechanical prototyping in a sandbox environment, I validated core gameplay elements before moving into detailed pre-production. The iterative paper mapping phase allowed me to refine level flow, difficulty progression, and player pathing before implementation.

The white boxing phase proved particularly valuable, as early playtesting provided crucial insights that eventually shaped the final design. I successfully balanced player guidance, challenge progression, and exploration opportunities by listening to playtester feedback. The final product showcases my ability to carry a level from an initial concept through multiple iterations to a polished, engaging experience that effectively teaches and challenges players through thoughtful design.

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