In Bloom
Summer 2023
Tools:
"In Bloom" is a transformative, environmentally conscious, virtual reality (VR) experience,
intricately merging gameplay with the necessity of nature conservation. As the lead developer
and AI designer for the project, my responsibility was to engineer the AI character that is
central to the game's unique appeal. The entire process was an opportunity to incorporate
intelligent design elements that significantly contribute to the success of the project.
The AI character in "In Bloom" is a magical creature that assists players in restoring life
to a desolate city, leading to a deeper connection with the environment. Using C# and
Unity's NavMesh system, I engineered this intelligent game agent, making the virtual
creature a dynamic companion in the game's immersive landscape. The creature's navigation
and interactivity with the VR environment are seamless and intuitive, facilitating a more
compelling and emotionally engaging player experience.
The character's adaptive behavior was developed using principles of machine learning. This
allowed the AI to respond uniquely to different situations and player actions, creating a robust
bond between the player and the AI companion. This connection enhances the gaming experience,
as players navigate the game's puzzles and challenges alongside an AI partner that learns and
adapts in real-time.
I designed and implemented a sophisticated state-transition system that permitted the AI creature
to actively participate in puzzle-solving activities. This feature not only enriched the game's
complexity but also heightened engagement by making the AI companion a central figure in
gameplay progression.
Ensuring the AI was more than a functional component, I applied rigorous game design methodologies
to calibrate AI behaviors. This precision aimed to strike the perfect balance between technical
functionality and player enjoyment, making the AI creature feel alive, responsive, and emotionally
resonant.
The success of "In Bloom" is a testament to the blend of advanced AI design, thoughtful gameplay
mechanics, and an underlying narrative that reinforces the importance of nature conservation. My role
in its development underscored the immense potential of AI in creating emotionally immersive VR
experiences.
