A team of dedicated students from SUNY Canton's Game Design and Development program recently presented their multiplayer video game at the Scholarly Activities Celebration. Under the guidance of a non-traditional student leader, this group successfully crafted an engaging level for the institution's inaugural student-led multiplayer game. Utilizing Epic Games' Unreal Engine, they brought their vision to life as part of their senior capstone project. Drawing inspiration from renowned first-person games, their creation invites up to four players to collaborate using medieval weaponry in pursuit of shared objectives.

At the heart of the game lies an intricate narrative where players must fend off relentless waves of adversaries attacking a city. Participants aim to safeguard significant landmarks within the urban setting, such as a tavern and a blacksmith shop, which are crucial for maintaining combat efficiency. The gameplay involves strategic resource management, as weapons degrade with use, necessitating regular visits to replenishment points. Moreover, enemy forces target non-player characters who provide vital support, adding layers of complexity to the experience. This ambitious endeavor required substantial teamwork, with each member contributing specialized skills ranging from player design to animations, collectively investing over 1,000 hours during the semester.

The successful development of this game showcases not only technical prowess but also the boundless potential of young innovators when given the right tools and opportunities. By pushing boundaries typically reserved for professional developers, these students have set a new standard for academic projects in game design. Their achievement underscores the importance of hands-on learning experiences that prepare individuals for real-world challenges. Looking ahead, the team plans to release their creation on a popular digital platform, further highlighting their commitment to excellence and innovation in the gaming industry.