Co-op Spectral Shift: Building a Collaborative Puzzle Game Where Players See Different Colors

Welcome to Spectral Shift, a game where players explore the innovative concept of color switching through a series of collaborative levels. In this game, each player sees three distinct colors, unique to them. Player 1 views red, green, and blue, while Player 2 sees cyan, magenta, and yellow. Starting with just one color, players unlock more as they progress through each level, adding layers to the gameplay.

Our inspiration came from the challenge of communication and teamwork. Players must rely on talking to each other rather than looking at each other's screens. For example, one player might find important cyan platforms that the other player can't see, requiring clear guidance to overcome obstacles and finish the level together. This dynamic not only encourages smart thinking but also strengthens the bond between players as they work together.

Our tutorial level is designed to introduce this unique color-switching idea in a way that's easy to understand and fun to play. Each level presents new challenges, from navigating invisible pathways in the Maze to avoiding color-specific shards in the Shard Obstacles level. Throughout, players must communicate well to succeed, finding ways to combine their strengths.

As players progress, we introduce moving platforms, hidden obstacles, and strategic elevators that test their ability to use colors effectively. By blending familiar challenges with new ones, our game offers an engaging cooperative experience that highlights the importance of teamwork and clear communication.

Supplies

• Unity v2023.1.20f1 (Although a later or former version would work as well as long as it supports Netcode for GameObjects)
• Netcode for GameObjects v1.8.1
• Lobby v1.1.2, Authentication v3.0.0, and Relay v1.0.5
• Rest of packages in image recommended

Step 1: Figuring Out the Color Switching Concept

The main mechanic that we built this game off of was the color switching. Each player would be able to see 3 colors unique to each other. But, each player can only see one of their 3 colors at a time. Player 1 can only see red, green, and blue while player 2 can only see cyan, magenta, and yellow. Although, you only start with 1 color at the beginning of the game and progressively unlock more as you complete levels. This separation of colors means that neither player can fully navigate the game alone–they must collaborate and communicate effectively to progress through the challenges of each level.

Since there is an emphasis on communication, players should avoid looking at each other's screens as that would defeat the point. For example, there might be cyan platforms invisible to player 1 that player 2 needs to point out in order for both of them to reach the end of the level. Players must also switch between their sets of 3 colors in order to see other objects that are hidden.

Step 2: Networking

We chose networking for this game instead of split screen, as it maintains the challenge and fun by preventing players from seeing the objects only visible to their partner. For networking, we used Unity Netcode for GameObjects, along with Authentication, Relay, and Lobby features. However, you could also use Photon Pun if you prefer.

To join the same game room, we implemented a simple room code system. Networking is primarily used in a few key areas of the game. Firstly, it assigns each player their unique color roles. Secondly, when one player dies, both are sent back to the start. This ensures that both players stay synchronized in their progress and challenges. Thirdly, we use it for when a player reaches the exit door. This way, the game detects when both players have arrived and then progresses to the next level.

In the shard level, networking is crucial as it ensures both players experience the same shard spawning locations and timings. This level relies heavily on precise communication and coordination, and synchronized shard appearances are vital for maintaining the gameplay balance.

By focusing on these specific areas, we ensure the networking enhances the cooperative experience without unnecessary complexity. This approach allows players to fully immerse themselves in the collaborative challenges, making the game more engaging and fun.

Step 3: Tutorial Level

In designing the tutorial level for our game, our goal was to effectively introduce players to the unique color-switching mechanic central to gameplay, ensuring that it was accessible yet engaging. We carefully crafted a level that features various platforms, each visible only to one of the players based on their color perception. This design requires players to rely heavily on communication to coordinate their movements and strategies.

The level layout consists of a series of platforms and barriers. Some platforms are visible to both players (the beginning and end), serving as common ground where strategies can be reassessed and plans formulated. However, the real challenge comes with the color-specific obstacles. These include walls and additional platforms that are invisible to one player and visible to the other, necessitating a strong verbal exchange about what each player sees and can access.

To navigate through the level, players must describe their immediate surroundings, guide each other past invisible barriers, and collaborate to decide the best paths forward. The level culminates in a door that both players must reach to advance, emphasizing the need for teamwork. Throughout the tutorial, subtle hints and tips are provided to encourage players to talk, share observations, and work together to solve the puzzles presented by their differing perspectives.

This initial level is designed not only to teach the basic mechanics but also to set the tone for the collaborative experience that defines the game. By the end of the tutorial, players should feel more comfortable with the communication and collaboration required to succeed in subsequent, more complex levels, like the next level: The Maze.

Step 4: Level 1 - Maze

The maze level introduces a cooperative challenge where players must work together to overcome obstacles. Player 1 takes on the role of guide, responsible for helping Player 2 navigate through a maze that Player 2 cannot see due to its color being invisible to them. Player 1 starts on a platform that gives them an overview of the entire maze, allowing them to figure out how to guide Player 2 to the exit. 

Once player 2 reaches the exit, Player 1 can then move to their own exit located at the edge of the guiding platform. The level tests players' sense of direction and challenges them to think beyond simple left and right directions. Player 1 must consider Player 2’s position and orientation within the maze, ensuring effective guidance to reach the goal. Overall, this maze level prompts collaborative gameplay by requiring players to communicate effectively and think strategically in an environment where visibility is limited for one player.

Step 5: Level 2 - Shard Obstacles

In this level, the players are tasked with reaching the exit door while navigating through a barrage of deadly shards. These shards, appearing in different colors, add a unique challenge, as each player can only see the shards that match their specific color perception. This setup necessitates constant and effective communication between the players to avoid the hazardous shards and safely progress through the level.

As the players move closer to the door, the intensity of the situation increases. The shards begin to spawn at a faster rate and in closer proximity, demanding quicker reflexes and even more precise communication. Players must alert each other to the presence and trajectory of the shards, providing guidance on which direction to dodge to avoid being hit.

The core of this level is designed to test and enhance the players' ability to communicate effectively under pressure. As the shards become increasingly frequent and the pace quickens, the players must refine their communication strategies, offering clear and concise instructions to each other. This level pushes players to develop a heightened sense of teamwork, as they must rely on each other entirely to navigate the escalating danger.

By the time players reach the door, they will have experienced a high-stakes scenario that not only challenges their individual skills but also strengthens their collaborative abilities. This intense communication exercise prepares players for more complex and demanding levels, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and precise communication in overcoming obstacles.

Step 6: Level 3 - Invisible Platforms

In this level, we aimed to emphasize the importance of communication. Players are separated into their own rooms within the game, each tasked with navigating through a maze of platforms reminiscent of the first level. However, there’s a twist: there are no walls, and falling off the platforms results in death.

To add complexity, each player can see the layout of the other player’s maze but not their own. This means they must guide each other through their respective mazes, relying solely on verbal instructions. If either player falls, both are sent back to the start, reinforcing the necessity of precise communication and teamwork.

Additionally, players face a challenge of memorization. As they progress through their own maze, they move farther away from the visual representation of the other player’s layout, making it increasingly difficult to see and remember the details. This requires players to remember the paths and obstacles they described to each other, adding an extra layer of difficulty.

The combination of navigating invisible mazes, providing clear directions, and memorizing complex layouts ensures that this level pushes players to enhance their communication skills significantly. Success in this level depends not only on individual dexterity but also on the strength of the cooperative bond between the players.

In conclusion, this level offers a rigorous test of communication, coordination, and memory, reinforcing the core cooperative mechanics of the game while providing an engaging and challenging experience for players.

Step 7: Level 4 - Moving Platformer

This level shares a lot in common with the tutorial level in terms of its platformer-style setup. At this stage of the game, both players have access to all three colors, which adds a new layer of challenge. They must constantly switch between these colors to reveal critical elements of the level, such as moving obstacles that might block their path to important platforms. 

To enhance the gameplay experience, we introduced a straightforward elevator mechanism that guides both players towards the exit door. Interestingly, only Player 1 can initially see this elevator, as it's designated in red. In addition, other platforms/obstacles are scattered across a variety of the colors now available to the players. This design choice encourages players to not only utilize the recently unlocked colors but also to revisit and employ the older ones they became familiar with early in the game. 

By integrating these gameplay mechanics, we aimed to create a level that challenges players' strategic thinking and color-switching skills, offering a blend of familiarity and new challenges as they progress through the game.

Step 8: Making Your Own Intriguing Level

Creating your own levels in our game is an exciting way to tailor unique challenges and experiences for other players. Here’s how you might design a level that makes full use of the color-switching and communication mechanics.

Start by sketching a rough layout of your level, keeping in mind the different elements that will require player cooperation. Designate specific platforms, walls, and obstacles that are visible to only one player based on their color perception. This will ensure that players must communicate to navigate through the level.

Next, you could add interactive elements like switches, doors, and movable blocks that players need to manipulate together. Ensure that some actions require simultaneous input from both players, reinforcing the need for coordination and teamwork. For example, you might include a section where one player needs to hold a switch while the other passes through a gate.

You should also incorporate dynamic elements to increase the challenge. Introduce moving platforms, timed sequences, or environmental hazards like color-specific shards or lasers. These should be strategically placed to require quick thinking and clear communication.

To add depth to your level, create sections where players must split up and navigate different paths, sharing vital information about what they see to help each other progress. This encourages continuous dialogue and strategic planning.

Finally, playtest your level to ensure it’s balanced and enjoyable. Make adjustments based on feedback to enhance the difficulty and engagement. By following these steps, you can create immersive, cooperative levels that challenge and entertain players, making the most of the unique mechanics in our game.

Step 9: Publishing and Conclusion

In conclusion, our game is all about teamwork and clever color-switching strategies. Starting with simple challenges in our tutorial level, like navigating invisible paths and avoiding hazards, we gradually introduce more complex obstacles that require careful coordination.

Throughout the game, players unlock new colors and face fresh challenges that push their collaborative skills to the limit. From guiding each other through mazes to dodging color-specific obstacles, every level encourages players to think creatively and communicate clearly.

We've crafted each level with the goal of creating an enjoyable and rewarding cooperative experience. By blending familiar gameplay mechanics with innovative twists, our game offers players a chance to bond over shared challenges and celebrate victories together. Whether you're strategizing with a friend or tackling challenges solo, our game is designed to inspire communication and foster a sense of accomplishment as you conquer each colorful puzzle.

If you’d like to play our game itself, you can go to https://hyunega-games.itch.io/spectral-shift and download it! If you’d like to download the github and make your own levels, you can go here: https://github.com/Andya-2008/Spectral-Shift.