The Lost Temple
Map
Main objective
Optional path for picking up ancient coins.
Problems & Solution:
Problem:
During playtesting, all players attempted to explore the area behind the waterfall but didn’t know how to get there. The only accessible path was a staircase located on the far left side of the area. I believe most players missed the stairs because they entered from a narrow hallway and were suddenly exposed to a grand, open space featuring a golden coin and a waterfall—distracting them from noticing the stairway.
Solution:
To guide players more intuitively, I broke a section of the railing along the intended path, making it appear damaged. This broken railing subtly directs players toward the area behind the waterfall. Once they’re there and need to find a way back up, they naturally turn around—right at the moment when the staircase becomes clearly visible.
Problem:
This level is designed to use lighting as a primary method for guiding players through the map. However, it's impossible to rely solely on natural light because the level’s layout changes direction and angle throughout, making consistent sunlight placement unrealistic. Additionally, some sections take place inside a mountain, where natural light sources wouldn’t logically exist.
Solution:
To solve this, I added torches that emit point light to guide players through the darker, enclosed sections of the level. These torches not only maintain visual consistency with the environment but also help reinforce the intended path without breaking immersion.
Overview:
Setting: Desert mountains
Objectives:
Pick up the orb of water
Optional:
Collect all the coins
Story Behind The Level:
This is a sacred place where people gather to express their gratitude and respect for the God of Water. They honor the God for sending water down the river and nourishing nearby villages. As a token of their appreciation, the villagers toss gold coins to request water during the dry season. However, one village once tried to take the Orb of The Water, hoping to secure all the water for themselves. Unfortunately, this act angered the Gods, who decided to flood the entire mountain and all the villages.
