Olle Drakenberg

Krystal Kart: Level Design Document

Game Overview

Krystal Kart is an augmented reality (AR) racing game where players compete against friends on physical tracks placed on tabletops. The game features power-ups that affect speed dynamics and requires skill to master the racing mechanics.

Track Design Philosophy

Core Design Principles

• Balance challenging turns with rewarding straight sections
• Create tracks with varying difficulty to accommodate different skill levels
• Maintain consistent and appropriate track width for intuitive racing
• Design with AR tabletop constraints in mind

Flow and Pacing

• Every complex series of turns should be followed by a straightaway as a “reward”
• Use track width variations strategically to control difficulty
• Create rhythm between technical sections and speed sections

Track Creation Process

Conceptualization

1. Initial Sketching
   • Begin with pen and paper designs
   • Map out turn sequences, straights, and special features
   • Consider player skill progression across the track
2. 3D Modeling
   • Transfer approved sketches to Blender
   • Establish correct measurements and proportions
   • Create detailed 3D models with appropriate geometry for AR implementation

Implementation

1. Unity Integration
   • Import Blender tracks into Unity
   • Place and adjust colliders for smooth player experience
   • Ensure track mesh is optimized for AR performance
2. Gameplay Elements
   • Strategic checkpoint placement
   • Power-up positioning to enhance race dynamics
   • Difficulty balancing through track layout adjustments
3. Iteration Process
   • Test with players of varying skill levels
   • Gather and implement feedback
   • Refine turns, straights, and technical sections until optimal flow is achieved

Track Types and Features

Standard Race Tracks

• Beginner Tracks
  • Wider turns and straightaways
  • Limited elevation changes
  • Evenly spaced power-ups
  • Clear visual guidance
• Intermediate Tracks
  • Balanced mix of technical sections and speed sections
  • Moderate track width variations
  • Strategic power-up placement
  • Optional shortcuts with risk/reward elements
• Advanced Tracks
  • Narrower track sections requiring precision
  • Complex turn sequences
  • Challenging power-up placements
  • Hidden shortcuts and alternate routes

Special Track Features

• Boost Zones
  • Designated areas for speed increases
  • Visually distinct from regular track sections
  • Strategically placed before or after technical sections
• Hazard Areas
  • Obstacles or track features that slow players
  • Visual warnings to prepare players
  • Bypass options for skilled players
• Split Paths
  • Multiple route options with different difficulty/reward balances
  • Encourages replayability and strategic decision-making

AR Implementation Guidelines

Physical Space Considerations

• Tracks designed to fit on standard tables (recommendations for minimum table size)
• Scale considerations to ensure readability in AR
• Clear entry/exit points for multi-track setups

Visual Design for AR

• High contrast track elements for better AR recognition
• Clear boundaries between track and off-track areas
• Visual cues that work in various lighting conditions

Technical Requirements

• Track geometry optimized for mobile AR performance
• Collision detection tuned for smooth gameplay experience
• Appropriate LOD (Level of Detail) implementation for different viewing distances

Track Testing and Validation

Testing Methodology

• Initial developer playtest for basic functionality
• Focused testing on individual track sections
• Full track testing with varying skill levels
• Multi-player testing for race dynamics

Success Metrics

• Completion time ranges for different skill levels
• Player feedback on enjoyment and challenge
• Heat maps of crash locations or slowdowns
• Power-up effectiveness and balance

Production Timeline and Milestones

Per-Track Development Schedule

• Concept sketching (2-3 days)
• 3D modeling in Blender (3-4 days)
• Unity implementation and collision setup (2-3 days)
• Gameplay element placement (1-2 days)
• Testing and iteration (3-4 days)
• Final polish and handoff to art team (1-2 days)

Quality Assurance Guidelines

• Track width consistency checks
• Collision detection validation
• Performance testing on target devices
• AR recognition testing in various environments

Track Handoff to Art Team

Documentation Requirements

• Annotated track layouts with key features identified
• Performance benchmarks and optimization notes
• Gameplay footage showing intended player experience
• Technical specifications for art implementation

Art Integration Process

• Regular check-ins during art development
• Validation testing after visual upgrades
• Collaborative iteration to maintain gameplay quality

This Level Design Document provides a comprehensive framework for creating engaging, balanced, and technically sound tracks for Krystal Kart’s AR racing experience, with clear methodologies for design, implementation, testing, and handoff to the art team.