This blockout is based of Horizon Forbidden West
This was my first level with the aim for it being in a bigger open world game. I was new to the whole concept and wanted to keep it fun and not go too complex by focusing on implementing certain elements. For example, my big focus for this blockout was approachability!
Approachability
The big draw to open world games is that the player has full control over where the go and how they get there. While this is super fun as a player, for the developers its more difficult to design. Since the intended path needs to be everywhere now.
The sketch of this level has been made with the thought of approachability in mind. The player has multiple ways of entering the facility.
Something I wanted to prevent was too many was for the player to enter the building. Since it is a rebel outpost it needs to have ways for the rebels and Aloy to find cover, and having too many ways of entry can also ruin the strategy and believability of the blockout.
Theming
My other focus for this blockout was to add something to the world of Horizon that was personal to me. I’ve always believed that everyone should put a little bit of themselves into their work, this blockout would be doing just that. I chose to make this blockout based of a supermarket, since i’ve worked in one for well over two years.
I didn’t want to make a Dutch supermarket, since Horizon was set in America. I wanted to stay within the rules of the game. This is reflected in the research I did on American supermarket layouts for the blockout.
Sizing
Because this was my first open world blockout I wasn’t sure what size would feel correct. Looking back I think I was a bit shy.
The area is a bit on the smaller side, but it wastes little space. Everywhere you stand there is something to look at and go.
Because I was a bit scared of empty space the blockout feels a bit too compact and dense. Looking back i would make it a bit bigger and remove a few entry points.
Conclusion
Overall, I believe choosing a few points to focus on was the correct move. It allowed me to learn more in specific areas and make mistakes to prevent for future blockouts. While also practicing with making blockouts for a bigger world. Definitely a worthwhile practice!
