Kai's Dream

Role: Lead Developer

Platform: PC

Tools Used: Unreal Engine, Blueprints, Custom Shaders, Asset Optimization Pipelines

Company: Oddjoint

Overview

Kai’s Dream is an immersive open-world first-person walking simulator that invites players to explore a dreamlike environment, uncover hidden narratives, and interact with a unique camera-based mechanic. The project was funded by the prestigious Epic MegaGrant, reflecting its innovative vision and potential. Developed in Unreal Engine, the game combines stunning visuals, atmospheric sound design, and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics to create an unforgettable experience.

My Contributions

• Game Design:

  • Conceptualized and implemented the unique camera mechanic that serves as the central gameplay feature, enabling players to capture and manipulate dreamlike visuals as part of the narrative progression.

  • Designed a vast open world filled with interactive elements and environmental storytelling, ensuring players remain engaged throughout their journey.

• Development:

  • Built the game using Unreal Engine, leveraging Blueprints for rapid prototyping and C++ for optimized performance-critical features.

  • Wrote custom shaders to achieve surreal visual effects, enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere of the game.

  • Optimized the game for seamless performance across various PC configurations, using LOD systems, texture compression, and dynamic lighting techniques.

• Technical Innovation:

  • Developed a proprietary camera system that interacts dynamically with the game world, capturing specific elements that influence player progression.

  • Created modular environmental assets and an asset streaming system to enable smooth loading in the expansive open-world setting.

  • Implemented advanced post-processing techniques to create a cinematic feel and enhance player immersion.

Unique Features

• Innovative Camera Mechanic: Players use an interactive camera to capture and alter the dream world, unlocking new paths and unraveling hidden stories.

• Dreamlike Open World: A meticulously designed environment filled with layered storytelling, encouraging exploration and discovery.

• Atmospheric Design: Custom shaders and dynamic lighting create a surreal, dreamlike aesthetic that sets the game apart.

Results and Impact

• Secured funding through the Epic MegaGrant, a testament to the project’s creativity and technical prowess.

• Garnered praise from playtesters for its immersive gameplay and innovative mechanics.

• Positioned as a showcase project for leveraging Unreal Engine in the walking simulator genre.

www.oddjoint.com

https://www.reddit.com/r/KaisDream/