Biomes

Biomes & Environment Design

• Biome Definition

• “Distinct geography with associated flora/fauna”
  • Examples:
    • Grasslands
    • Forest
    • Tundra
    • Desert

• Level Designer Responsibilities

• Must know:
  • Which biomes level uses
  • Available assets within biome
• Should research/understand biomes
  • Let inform design choices
  • Example: Desert suggests
    • Large traversal areas
    • Sand mechanics
    • Windstorm visibility effects

• Design Philosophy

• “Don’t let biomes restrict gameplay”
  • Create internally consistent fiction
  • Primary focus: “compelling gameplay”
• Good examples:
  • Ratchet & Clank series
  • Cyan games
  • Abduction (mixed biomes)

• Sample Level Implementation

• Elevation layers:
  • Highest: Guardhouse area & distant section
  • Middle: Valley with trees
  • Lowest: Lake area
• Building masses:
  • Guardhouse: Low profile
  • Abbey:
    • Defined silhouette
    • Rocky precipice
    • Tower for navigation

Biomes provide framework for level personality while suggesting mechanics, but shouldn’t restrict design. Focus remains on compelling gameplay within consistent environment.