On The Way2024-Individual Project
Project Summary:
This project is research-based, outcoming with a two player serious game merging VR with PC controls, focusing on challenges of a visual impaired person with tactile paths. By introducing a guider, the game illustrates how even small acts of help can ease their journey.
Key Words:
Work Flow:
Serious Game, VR, Multi-player Game, Collaboration, Accessibility
Assets Credits‘ list:
On The Way
Gameplay Showcase Video:
Also view on: https://youtu.be/Mhjmsv8pACw?si=LR1In0Etn91qdAT2
Game Tests:
On The Way - Research
This video captures the unexpected obstacles of a blind person while navigating a route, resonating with viewers.
A blind content creator in China shares her daily life. On a five-minute walk to meet a friend, she faced numerous obstacles, but a Helper appeared and guided her.
Then I took several field trips, where same issues happened.
There‘re also good examples:
City space with accessibility.
Clean tactile paths.
Summary and Analysis:
I refined some ideas base on the analysis.
On The Way - Developments
Ideations and Iterations:
Idea 1：
Related Issue: Occupation of Tactile Paving
Related Solution: Moving Obstacles
Game Format: 2D Top-Down Sokoban-Like Single-Player Video Game
Game Description: The player navigates a dark map as a visually impaired person, seeing only the blocks they occupy and the nearby tactile path. The goal is to clear obstacles blocking the path, avoid hazards, and reach the destination safely.
Idea 2：
Related Issue: Damage of Tactile Paths/ Overhead Obstacles
Related Solution: Advocacy of Tactile paving maintenance
Game Format: Physical Board Game with Unique Materials
Game Description: Using various types of fabric Velcro placed randomly on the game board, players simulate walking route with physical feelings.
Idea 3：
Related Issue: Poor Designed Facilities/ Occupation
Related Solution: Assistance from Guidance
Game Format: Two-Player with Dual-View Co-op Game
Game Description: One player as the guide, equipped with lists of obstacles, but not the layout or goal. The blind character navigates a dark game world, seeing only the explored tactile path, nearby objects, and auditory cues. The two players must share information to reach the goal
Idea 4：
Related Issue: Occupation by Pedestrians/ Lack of Warning Signals
Related Solution: Assistance from guide dog and Pedestrians
Game Format: Team-Building Multiplayer Game with Large Props
Game Description: A team-building game with large props and an open space, requiring four players. The good and bad players set different props to guide/mislead the blind. Guide dog only move along tactile paths, using barks to help the blind person, who moves freely.
On The Way - Mechanic Designs
Game Mechanics Iterations：
After this, I found my design lacks immersion. Instead of presenting information flatly, I should focus on conveying the actual feelings to players.
I want my players feel...
...solid hitting from an obstacle in front
...save when tactile path down your feet
The importance of ‘helping hand’ during walk
So I develop the game in this technical way…
On The Way - Technical Breakdown
Final Game Flow & Features：
Level Design & Development Map：
Problem Solving Examples：
Multiplayer Function Development：
Initial
A cave made by car tire：Optimization
