Developer: YahP Games
Platforms: Mobile
Genre: Sports | 3D
Engine: Unity
Responsabilites
I was responsible for creating the initial concept of the game and its mechanics, as well as managing all the game documentation throughout the entire process.
Additionally, I studied the original sport and translated its core characteristics and rules into the game.
I was also in charge of developing various in-game mechanics, including the formations and routes system in the game.
Additionally, I studied the original sport and translated its core characteristics and rules into the game.
I was also in charge of developing various in-game mechanics, including the formations and routes system in the game.
About Gameday
The regional american football team, Ponte Preta, was looking for ways to expand the sport 's audience in the region, while at the same time is trying to bring more Soccer fans of Ponte Preta closer to the American Football team, that is using the brand.
For those interested, you can access the complete documents here:
Team formation and Player Routes System
"During this phase, the user takes control as the team coach, and will planning how your team will behave in the field: Choose players functions, change positions, create and alternate routes during the play."
Since the goal here was to give players complete freedom to create their own strategies, I developed a system where players can select a player on the field, choose their position, and then assign the route they will follow once the play begins.
One of the major issues encountered during the development of this mechanic was the visibility of the players and their roles. Additionally, having too many options on the mobile screen negatively impacted the user experience.
The solution was to create visible slots where, once a player is placed, their position is automatically adjusted, and the routes have characteristics based on the player's position.
Game AI
I developed an AI system based on quadrants around the player, with decision-making based on distance and game situations.
When there are no attacking players in the defensive territory, the AI focuses on covering open spaces and preventing offensive infiltration. If an opposing player enters the quadrant, the AI evaluates the situation and takes action accordingly.
You can see more detailed explanation here: Game Dev Process
Situation 1: No enemies
Situation 2: Saw a enemy and go for it
Situation 3: Saw two enemies, decide wich one based on distance
Situation 4: Two defenders saw Two enemies, but near the same
Situation 5: If two defenders spot two enemies, and one of the enemies is already being followed by a teammate, the AI should prioritize targeting the other enemy
Game Mechanics
In addition to the strategic aspect of the game, we developed mechanics for the quarterback throw, receiver run, and field goal.
Quarterback
Throw During the development of the quarterback throw mechanic, we encountered some issues with precision and user difficulty. Midway through development, we created a new throw mechanic and repurposed the original one for the field goal game, where it worked exceptionally well.
Runner
The runner mechanic was designed to focus on player agility, aiming to replicate the chase element of the real sport. To enhance the challenge, we added a jumping mechanic for defenders and a dodge mechanic for the player.
However, the combined defender jumps caused balance issues. The solution was to give the user's allies more utility, allowing them to block some of the defender's jumps and protect the player with the ball.
Runner Tests
Throwing Tests
Advanced Stage - Gameplay
Advanced Stage - Customization
