SPORTSBALL
Prototype and evaluate mechanics for a multiplayer VR sports game
2020
Prototyping / Design
CONCEPT
Sportsball was a prototype developed at Myr. The goal was to experiment and develop a competitive, multiplayer VR experience for the Quest 2. The mechanics needed to leverage Myr’s proprietary physics-based interactions system. The game mechanics and interactions needed to feel physically satisfying, fluid and above all, fun.
Our team chose to explore a fast-paced sports game inspired by our favorite playground games.
PHYSICAL INTERACTION
The greatest challenge we faced in this prototype was designing the system for the ball. We needed to be able to pass and catch a small physics-based object that could sync position and velocity in a networked match reliably enough for fast-paced, competitive gameplay.
Although the prototype wasn’t chosen for production, we developed a viable system that accommodated for server latency reliably and most importantly, was fun to play! :)
We experimented with a physics-based throw based on controller velocity but couldn’t find a balance in physically throwing a ball that felt natural in game while being accurate enough to the player’s intended action.
We then developed a slingshot mechanic for players to easily perform and visualize their action.
After we prototyped the ball mechanics, we explored locomotion mechanics and game modes that enhanced gameplay by making moving around a map more dynamic and engaging than base joystick movement.
We created a dash mechanic where players can add a velocity using a similar sling system to the ball throw mechanic. Players can move using the joystick as their primary locomotion then quickly dash in any direction by grabbing the world and slinging themselves.
This mechanic created a way for players to juke, dodge and navigate more freely in a multiplayer match.