Below is the storyboard for the first three levels of my game.
I wanted to share how I’ve approached setting up my game design, hoping it might spark some inspiration for you as you work on your own projects. Let me know what you think!
Level 1
Title: Campsite
Mission Prompt: Welcome to your first mission, grab the crystal.
Description: Just grab the darn crystal and don’t fall, unless you are clumsy.
Narrative:
As Bob arrives at the campsite, he detects faint energy traces leading to the first crystal. His system logs a brief note:
“Signal fragment acquired. Energy reserves sufficient for further exploration. Continue tracking origin.”
Bob observes signs of prior activity in the area, but everything is eerily silent.
Goal and Backstory:
Introduce the movement system and exploration mechanics.
The level contains 1 crystal (mandatory objective) and several hidden collectibles scattered in jars, crates, barrels, and a tent, encouraging players to explore.
After completion, a summary shows the percentage of collectibles found, nudging players to replay for a “100% completion” badge.
The true importance of the crystal is hinted at but not revealed.
Level 2
Title: Where is everybody?
Mission Prompt: Hey!.. more crystals…
Description: Was that a robotic chicken??
Narrative:
As Bob ventures further, he encounters a strange robotic chicken darting through the area. His log updates:
“Unidentified automaton detected. Possible remnant of prior operations. Non-hostile but evasive. Pursue for further analysis.”
The environment begins to reveal traces of an abandoned alien civilization, with machinery and structures integrated into the natural terrain.
Goal and Backstory:
Expand the movement system with more interactive elements, such as ladders to introduce verticality.
The robotic chicken is an interactive NPC that flees as Bob approaches, adding a dynamic element to the environment.
Include collectibles and crystals to maintain exploration challenges.
The robotic chicken hints at a larger presence of automated entities connected to the mysterious crystal.
Level 3
Title: “Campfire’s Revenge”
Mission Prompt: “Great news: fire is warm. Bad news: you’re not fireproof.”
Description: “Avoid the fire unless you enjoy spontaneous combustion.”
Narrative:
Bob’s systems flag the remnants of campfires as a hazard:
“Alert: Fire detected. Reminder: Explosions are bad for structural integrity. Proceed with caution.”
Goal and Backstory:
Introduce environmental hazards (fire) to challenge navigation and puzzle-solving. Encourage exploration with risky, collectible-filled areas near hazards.
The campfire remnants hint at past inhabitants and suggest alien technology might be behind the persistent flames, deepening the mystery of the civilization.