Shattered Sky
It is a narrative-driven co-op game where two players, bound by a parasite, must overcome distrust and cultural barriers while exploring alien worlds and solving puzzles to survive.
Research Question
How can asymmetric design and communication barriers in co-op games foster player empathy, emergent storytelling, and collaborative problem-solving?
Goal of the Game
Encourage cooperation through miscommunication (distorted voice chat, gestures).
Explore themes of trust, conflict, and unity through branching narratives.
Blend environmental storytelling, co-op puzzles, and resource-based progression.
Brainstorming Ideas
Below are the visuals which used for Brainstorming, Gameplay, Level Design.
Methods & Technologies Used
Game Engine: Unity 6
Multiplayer System: Netcode for GameObjects for real-time sync
NavMesh & State Machines: To Manage enemies AI behaviour
Character Animations: Mixamo for Hunter animations
UI/UX Design Tools: Figma & Photoshop (for UI assets and HUD)
Project Management: Trello (for task management), Miro (for brainstorming & research)
Packages: Cinemachine, shaders, and particle effects for immersion
AI-Assisted Design: AI-generated assets for character concept art
Testing & Feedback: User testing conducted with multiple VR and PC players
Unique Features of the Game
Asymmetrical Co-op: Different character abilities (Drayk = environmental control, Aevi = telekinesis).
Parasite Mechanic: Proximity-enforced collaboration; if one dies, both die.
Communication Barriers: Voice distortion, limited telepathy, gestures.
Narrative Design: Dual perspectives with conflicting information.
Multiple Endings: Unity, Betrayal, or Destruction based on trust and decisions.
Level Design (Under the Tunnel)
Level Design (Long shot Tunnel)
Level Design Highlights
Pyroterra: Lava planet with collapsing paths and heat hazards.
Dunestorm: Shifting sands and sandstorms obscure movement and vision.
Tidalor: Underwater moon with oxygen-based traversal challenges.
Cryonix: Icy puzzles using light refraction and slippery terrain
Remnara: Earth-like ruins with stealth, enemy AI, and aggressive fauna.
Future Enhancements
Additional Levels: Expanding beyond the forest to include snow, mountain, and ruins environments.
Enhanced AI Integration: Implementing AI-assisted tracking for the Hunter.
Expanded Customization: Unlockable skins, weapons, and abilities for both players.
Monetization Strategy: Exploring cosmetic-based microtransactions and seasonal updates