This project was created as part of my Level Design 2 course and focuses on environmental storytelling, player-driven exploration, and meaningful navigation within a pre-established post-apocalyptic setting. The goal was to design a level that felt believable as a real location while also supporting gameplay and narrative through the environment itself rather than relying on direct exposition.
The setting takes place within a semi-abandoned water treatment and pressure control facility that has continued operating long after the collapse of society. Rather than telling the player exactly what happened, the level encourages them to piece together the story through visual details, environmental conditions, and the layout of the facility. Signs of emergency repairs, abandoned work areas, damaged equipment, and inaccessible sections of the plant help communicate the history of the location and the events that led to its current state. (Most of this was not implemented fully due to time constraints and I was told to focus on level outline)
A major focus of the project was player control and exploration. Instead of forcing players through a single linear route, the facility was designed to provide multiple opportunities to investigate side areas, observe environmental details, and discover additional context about the world. Critical objectives remain clear enough to prevent players from becoming lost, while optional spaces reward curiosity and encourage deeper engagement with the environment. This balance allows players to progress at their own pace while maintaining a strong sense of direction.
The overall design philosophy centered on using the environment as a storytelling tool. Lighting, structural damage, maintenance pathways, control rooms, and operational infrastructure all work together to support the narrative of a once-essential facility struggling to remain functional in a harsh post-apocalyptic world. Every area was designed with both practical worldbuilding and player experience in mind, ensuring that exploration naturally reveals information about the facility and its role within the larger setting.
The walkthrough video included below demonstrates the intended player path through the level while highlighting key design decisions, environmental storytelling elements, and exploration opportunities that were incorporated throughout the project.