Non Compos Mentis - Level Design
Non Compos Mentis was a very short project as far a game projects go, and so the prototype level design was simple and to the point. There are 4 levels in the prototype, the first 3 act as tutorial levels and the 4th is a more challenging puzzle, combining all the mechanics.
The HUB level is where the player begins. It is the players bedroom where they will awaken again after the completion of each area. If the game were to be made full length there would be different 'world' areas leading out of each poster. In the Prototype only one poster is a portal (Area 1).
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There are several different Golem types in the prototype. Each Golem statue is able to use any of the morphs (this would be restricted in the full game). This image is a legend showing how each Golem type will be displayed in the level layout and solution drawings
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Level 1 is the most basic of basic levels. It begins with the glowing goal orb on top of a pillar, out of reach. In the room there is a single golem statue.
The function of this level is to teach the very fundamental mechanic to the player, which is that Golem statues can and must be used in order to progress. The level also introduces the first Golem ability ('Stair Arms').
The solution is intentionally very simple. Activate the Golem and use it's 'Stair Arm' ability. This will create a staircase up to the goal pedestal. Then simply walk up the Golem and touch the goal orb in order to progress to the next level.
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Level 2 builds on what is known from Level 1. It presents a very similar scenario, only this time the goal is higher and there are now 2 Golems in the level.
The function of this level is to teach the player that multiple Golems can be used together to achieve a single purpose. The level also introduces the 'Tall Stair Arms' Ability.
The solution, like with the previous level, is to create a staircase in order to reach the goal orb. In this case the staircase must be twice as large to reach the orb, which is twice as high. The furthest Golem from the goal orb must be set in the 'Stair Arms' pose as before. The other Golem must also be set in this pose and then set into the 'Tall Stairs Arms' pose. This will raise it up so that the base of its stair arms meet the top of the other Golems stair arms.
A full staircase to the goal orb has been created.
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Level 3 presents a different scenario.
The goal should be easy to reach, but the Golem is not in the correct location.
The function of this level is to teach the player that Golems can be moved and rotated into different positions.
The solution is simple, push the Golem in front of the goal orb pedestal and rotate it so that the 'Stair Arms' ability can be used to reach the goal.
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Level 4 or 'The Advanced Level'
presents a slightly more complex puzzle. The goal orb is much higher than before, being on the highest tier of a three tier level. Five Golems are available to use.
The function of this level is to put all previously learnt mechanics to use as well as introducing a couple of others. The new mechanics are the 'Bridge Arms' and 'Tall Bridge Arms' Golem abilities and the fact that Golems can be pushed up and over other Golems.
The solution requires the use of all Golems. Firstly, the lower tier must be reached. This can be achieved by moving a Golem into position and adopting the 'Stair Arms' pose. In order to reach the second tier the same must be done, but a Golem has to be on the first tier. A Golem must be pushed up the previous Golem and moved into position on the first tier adopting the 'Stair Arms' pose. The second tier can now be reached.
From the second tier, a large gap must be crossed to reach the side closest to the goal orb. It is also clear that a Golem will be needed on that side to reach the third tier containing the goal orb. In order to cross the gap it requires two Golems. The first is sent into the base of the gap and adopts the 'Stair Arms' pose. The second must be pushed up to the first as high as possible and then set into the 'Tall Bridge Arms' pose, which bridges the gap.
Finally the remaining Golem can be pushed up to the second tier and across the Bridge Golem and over to the edge closest to the third tier. Adopt the 'Stair Arms' pose and the goal orb is reachable!
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