Ragnarok
Ragnarok VR delivers an immersive physics-based axe throwing experience, developed in collaboration with a talented small team. Step into the virtual realm and hone your axe-throwing skills in a dynamic environment designed for the ultimate axe throwing thrill.
Project Aim + Goals
The aim of this project was to build a VR game involving physics interactions and to practice technical collaboration in a team environment.
Highlights
Gameplay
- ✔️ Users can throw a unique object at the goal.
- ✔️ Users can teleport around the course.
- ✔️ Users can “zoom out” and view a miniature view of the course, before returning to a 1:1 scale.
- ✔️ There are success and failure states (e.g., not hitting all the targets in a round before the time is up.)
- ✔️ The game has a level of visual polish and art, including making use of a VR spectator camera.
Challenges
Completing this project came with a host of unique challenges, some of which included:
- Creating a unique weapon recall system where the user is able to recall the axe at will.
- Designing a simple level progression involving animated targets and a scoring system.
- Implementing a spectator camera rig for a top down view on command.
Moments of Breakthrough
Gaze Tracking Weapon Recall
Building a system that allowed for the user to easily recall the axe proved to be one of the most satisfying parts of this project. We originally worked on a system that functioned by tracking the players hand and using that as the reference to recall the axe. We noticed that aiming the hand felt off, so we decided to redesign the system using the players gaze. This new design offered a much more rewarding feeling when using the mechanic.
Level Manager
Constructing the level manager to handle each stage of the game, track the player score, and update the score board with animations was another rewarding achievement. First the player must hit a series of static targets that will show up sequentially after being hit to continue. Once the first round is complete the player must destroy a series of moving breakable targets before the time runs out. If the player fails they must destroy the "pumpkin of reset" to retry.
Iterations + Improvements
Spectator Camera
The spectator camera in Ragnarok VR serves as a unique element to enhance the overall gaming experience. It provides an additional perspective that goes beyond the player's first person VR view, allowing players to view themselves as a spectator.
Level Design
The farmyard-themed level design in Ragnarok VR was chosen to create an immersive and visually appealing backdrop for axe throwing. Featuring weathered barns, wooden fences, and interactive elements like hay bales, the environment offers a blend of authenticity and engagement. Target placement is strategic, providing varied difficulty levels, while dynamic elements, such as reactive animals, add to the interactive experience
Reflections
The collaborative nature of developing Ragnarok VR within a small team helped with efficient development and problem-solving. Future considerations include expanding gameplay elements and exploring innovative features.
