Adding Interest

Adding Small-Scale Level Interest Features

• Three techniques to add complexity without changing topology:

• Sidetracks
• Backtracks
• Pockets

• Sidetracks

• “Leaves main path and rejoins later”
• Benefits:
  • Adds realism
    • “Rare in real life to have direct A to B path”
  • Creates narrative opportunities
  • Adds depth/complexity

• Backtracks

• “Leaves path but doesn’t rejoin - creates dead end”
• Common uses:
  • Maze dead-ends
  • Hidden alleys
  • Places for:
    • Collectibles
    • Narrative moments
    • Pickups

• Pockets

• “Just a little blip along the way”
• Properties:
  • Smaller than backtracks
  • Easy to miss
  • Rewards attention
• Examples:
  • Canyon divots
  • Hidden corners
  • Places for:
    • Ammo/health
    • Collectibles
    • “Rewards for paying attention”

• Implementation Example:

• Sidetracks:
  • Added to complex traversal areas
  • Allow alternate movement options
• Backtrack:
  • Hidden area near guardhouse
  • “For completionists seeking 100%”
• Pockets:
  • Too small for diagram
  • Scattered throughout
  • Creates exploration opportunities

These micro-scale features add depth and reward exploration without changing level structure. They create opportunities for collectibles, narrative moments and completionist content while maintaining core path flow.