I’m working on a game project featuring a main character who keeps traveling through various areas. Currently, this dangerous company employee has just arrived at a snowy region known as ‘frozen cascades’. The idea is for the character to respond to the harsh cold upon arrival.
I’m trying to understand how to manage the progression system as the character ventures further. Should the cold climate impact movement speed or stamina? I’m also curious about the best methods to initiate dialogue reactions based on the location.
Has anyone experienced similar environmental storytelling in their work? I would appreciate some advice on making these transitions feel smooth and engaging for players.
Temperature systems can really enhance immersion. Consider using a warmth meter that decreases in cold areas like frozen cascades. When the character’s cold, you could add a blue tint to the screen and slightly decrease stamina regeneration. Just keep it fair; you don’t want to make it too punishing. Red Dead 2 handled it well with the need for appropriate clothing for different weather conditions, making it feel natural.
For cold mechanics, I’d skip slowing movement speed - that’s just annoying. Go with gradual stamina drain instead. Throw in some visual effects like breath fog or your character rubbing their hands together. Witcher 3 nailed this in Skellige without being intrusive.
Totally agree, draining stamina adds tension without making it tedious. The shivering animations and little comments about the cold can really pull the player into that environment. It’s all about making them feel that chill, right?