Creating a 2.5D Point-and-Click Adventure Game in Unity

Overview

• Instructor: Chris
• Objective: Create a 2.5D point-and-click adventure game using Adventure Creator and Unity (version 2018.3) along with Adventure Creator version 1.66.4.
• Concept: 2.5D involves placing 3D characters over 2D backgrounds.
• Tools Used: Unity, Adventure Creator, additional assets from Adventure Creator downloads.

Setup

Project Setup

• Open a new project in Unity 2018.3.
• Import Adventure Creator from the asset store.
• Follow prompts to create necessary inputs and layers.

Assets and Scene Preparation

• Download additional assets from Adventure Creator's online resources.
• Import tutorial assets and set up folders in the Unity project.
• Open the provided Wharf scene to start the setup.

Creating the Game Environment

New Game Wizard

• Use the New Game Wizard in Adventure Creator to set up game managers.
• Define game settings: 2.5D perspective, interface style, and movement method (point-and-click).

Scene Organization

• Use structured panels to organize scene objects into folders.
• Place elements like lights, cameras, and set geometries into appropriate folders.

Background Setup

• Use photographic backgrounds for scenes.
• Assign backgrounds to various cameras to set perspectives.
• Ensure the 3D floor matches the background perspective.

NavMesh and Navigation

• Use Unity's navigation system to bake a NavMesh on the Wharf floor.
• Adjust player movement to align with the NavMesh.
• Switch camera views using triggers and hotspots.

Camera and Perspective Management

• Set up multiple cameras corresponding to different scene views.
• Integrate camera switching using triggers as the player moves around.
• Ensure aspect ratios are consistent with the background resolution for a seamless view.

Player Character Setup

Player Model

• Import and set up a 3D character model.
• Apply the character material for visual appearance.
• Create a player character using the Character Wizard.

Animation and Movement

• Set up animations using Unity’s Mecanim system.
• Configure parameters and blend trees for walking and running animations.
• Implement footstep sounds using animation events.

Game Logic and Interactions

Hotspots and Triggers

• Create hotspots for interactive areas on the screen.
• Use triggers for camera transitions and interactive gameplay elements.
• Define actions for each hotspot interaction.

Stealth Mechanic

• Implement a stealth mode allowing the player to crouch and avoid detection.
• Use an active input system to toggle stealth mode via keyboard input.

Non-Player Character (NPC)

• Add an NPC to the scene with basic interactive dialogue.
• Ensure NPC detection logic using triggers when the player is not in stealth mode.

Interface and Menus

• Modify the default interface to include a stealth toggle button.
• Use Unity UI to create and manage game menus.
• Assign functions to UI elements for interactive gameplay.

Audio Integration

• Add ambient sounds to the scene using Unity’s audio components.
• Implement footstep sounds for the player character.
• Utilize Unity’s audio mixer for advanced sound management and effects.

Translation and Localization

• Prepare the game for localization by gathering all in-game text.
• Use the Speech Manager to handle translations and export/import text files.

Saving and Loading

• Ensure game objects are correctly flagged for saving/restoring game states.
• Test the save/load functionality via Adventure Creator's save system.

Conclusion

• Successfully established a foundational 2.5D adventure game using modern Unity and Adventure Creator tools.
• Emphasized the importance of structured setup, clear visual presentation, and interactive gameplay mechanics.
• Concluded with a functioning game ready for further expansion and enhancement.