Simple Sonic Worlds Presentation - Lesson 1

Introduction

• Overview of the session: basics of Sonic Worlds using Clickteam Fusion.
• Focus on transitioning from simple worlds to more complex creations.
• Creation of a new character named Classic Sonic DX with added abilities.

Basics of Clickteam Fusion

• Software Requirement: Fusion Developer is not mandatory for beginners; the standard version suffices.
• Files to use: .mfa files are project files in Clickteam Fusion.
• Beginners should start with Simple Sonic Worlds due to fewer necessary extensions.

Opening Projects

• Users may encounter errors when opening projects missing extensions.
  • Solution: Take a screenshot of the error, note needed extensions, and download them online.

Understanding the Clickteam Fusion UI

• Frames: Represents different levels or menus within the game.
• Editing Objects: Double-clicking objects reveals properties.
• Saving: Use "Save As" frequently to create backups of project versions.
• Toolbars: Ensure to view necessary toolbars like properties and layers for editing.
• Code and Logic: Learn basic structures for programming game logic effectively.

Character Creation and Properties

• Emphasize the importance of Active Objects versus Backdrops.
  • Active Objects have animation capabilities and can be programmed.
  • Backdrops are static background elements.
• Animation Cycles: Understand and utilize different animation cycles for character movement.
• Variables: Introduce global and alterable variables for handling character stats and interactions.

Development Best Practices

• Manage project layers to create a clear workflow.
• Never exceed 30k pixels for any object to avoid crashes.
• Use Debugging tools and features to simplify problem-solving during development.

Learning Coding in Sonic Worlds

• Begin coding basics using the Event List Editor.
  • Conditions dictate when actions occur (e.g., pressing buttons).
  • Structure of code: conditions must be satisfied for actions to be performed.
• Discuss Fast Loops and how they execute multiple times before moving to the next event segment, along with pitfalls.
• Debugging Tips: Changes to objects can cause errors if they have linked code or behaviors.

Advanced Features

• Use of Qualifiers for grouping and managing object behaviors effectively.
• Importance of global variables for tracking consistent states across levels.
• Real-time inputs for character controls using Player Input Objects.

Future Lessons & Next Steps

• Create an attack mechanic for the new character, Classic Sonic DX.
• Develop a full level from scratch incorporating new gameplay mechanics and character attributes.
• Make source code available for others to learn from and remix.

Conclusion

• Emphasized the complexity of programming and game development with Sonic Worlds.
• Open discussion for questions regarding the lesson.

Key Takeaways

• Ensure familiarity with Clickteam Fusion UI and functionalities before diving into development.
• Always backup your projects and manage objects wisely to avoid errors.
• Coding in Sonic Worlds can be simplified by understanding the event editor’s structure and effectively using variables.
• The next session will focus on creating intricate character movements and actions.