Solanis Flight System

Project Overview

Solanis is a 3D, flight-based exploration game set in a sun-scorched world. As the lead programmer, I was responsible for developing core gameplay systems and key features, including flight physics, dynamic camera systems, responsive controls, and design-focused tools to enhance the overall player experience.

Flight System Implementation

1. Core Physics Framework

Implemented a custom physics system using Unreal Engine's built-in physics engine as a foundation. Created a modular architecture that allows for easy adjustment of flight characteristics.

Custom force calculations.
Variable per force drag for smooth simulation
Collision prediction and response system

2. Control System

Developed an intuitive control scheme that balances responsiveness with smooth flight behavior. Implemented both gamepad and keyboard/mouse support with customizable inversion.

Abstracted input for variable smoothing.
Multi layer interpolation for smooth control and force application.
Custom curves for advanced smoothing and response.

3. Camera System

Created a dynamic camera system that follows the player while maintaining visibility and providing cinematic views.

Targeted to show on screen movement of character.
Dynamically adapts to player speed and movement accounting for abrupt changes in speed with additional smoothing.
Manual camera control for cinematic shots.

4. Environmental Interaction

Developed systems for the flight mechanics to interact with the environment, including wind currents/tunnels and slipstreams.

Level elements such as slip stream and updrafts can be used to create unique flight paths.
Wind Volumes providing turbulence, barriers and directional forces allow different feeling airspaces and areas.
Different objectives such as Enemy chase AI and Ballistas that fire at the player are used to make the player interact with the flight system in different ways.