In the latest dev vlog for their space game developed in Unreal Engine 5, LevelCap and Rich introduce a new inventory system and customizable item icons, alongside improved rocket engine sound effects for a more immersive experience. They also discuss technical optimizations that achieved 60 FPS on the Steam Deck, enhancing gameplay performance and paving the way for the implementation of the Gameplay Ability System for better game design and balancing.
In the latest dev vlog for the space game being developed in Unreal Engine 5, LevelCap and his buddy Rich share exciting updates on their progress. They introduce a new inventory system that allows players to pick up, store, and transfer cargo. The inventory features a backpack system, enabling players to manage items more effectively, including the ability to dock with stations to stash gear for future use. Although the system is still in development, it lays a solid foundation for trading and inventory management within the game.
The vlog also highlights the creation of item icons using a photo shoot setup within Unreal Engine 5. LevelCap explains how he utilized assets from the Epic MegaScan store to design icons for various items, including a fuel tank. By adjusting the size and positioning of these items in a specially designed level, he can render high-quality icons that are visually appealing and functional. This process allows for customization of the icons, including background colors and lighting effects, enhancing their overall presentation in the game.
Another significant update is the introduction of new rocket engine sound effects, designed by Panzer V1. LevelCap compares the old sound effects to the new ones, emphasizing the complexity and realism of the new system. The new sound effects dynamically adjust based on the engine’s power output, creating a more immersive experience for players. This approach, inspired by sound design in car games, enhances the audio experience, making engine sounds more engaging and responsive to gameplay.
The developers also address technical improvements made to ensure the game runs smoothly on the Steam Deck. After encountering performance issues due to accumulated tech debt, they dedicated time to optimize the game, achieving a solid 60 FPS. This optimization not only improves gameplay on handheld devices but also allows the team to test the game’s visuals on smaller screens, ensuring a consistent experience across platforms.
Lastly, LevelCap and Rich discuss the implementation of the Gameplay Ability System (GAS), which will streamline game design and balancing. GAS allows for complex interactions between various gameplay elements, such as weapon stats and ship abilities. The vlog showcases a simple example of how GAS can be used to manage fuel collection in the game, facilitating a more dynamic and responsive gameplay experience. As development progresses, the team is optimistic about future content and enhancements, inviting viewers to follow their journey on Discord and stay tuned for more updates.