Summary
This Minecraft adventure map originally started as an entry for the DesignCraft level design jam, but grew into an independent study in functional level design. The entirety of this adventure is created within vanilla Minecraft, using the in-game commands and no external utilities or mods. All structures were designed and built by hand. The adventure includes a custom dialog and quest system, allowing for NPC conversation and event completion. The player must trade with NPCs, solve puzzles, carry out espionage, and fight custom enemies to make their way toward the oppressive overlord of the city, Gregor. The adventure culminates in a multi-phase boss fight with custom enemy behaviors and items. Bringing down Gregor allows you to escape the city and liberate its populace.
My Contribution
This project was split evenly between myself and one other developer. In a project like this, where everything is built block by block, and all mechanics must be constructed from a set of tools not originally intended for the job, we tended to both have a hand in building every facet. The one thing I know I did on my own was to build the security grid in the confidential document storage, complete with tripwire alarms to evade.
Moving Forward
This project was pretty nicely wrapped up, with the completion of the boss fight. It was a real challenge, but the inherent difficulty of the limited tools forced us to really think through every aspect of the adventure. I feel it was a successful study in level design, and I have a much greater appreciation for the art. The result impressed those who played, and resulted in many memorable moments. I wouldn't mind doing future work in level design.