Game Description
Z-Ray is a single player horror puzzle game implemented on the PS3 utilizing the Sony Move controller. The player uses the Move to navigate through a variety of puzzles, helping his or her employer recapture the escaped creatures in the lab. Each monster is shrouded by a dark particle formation which keeps it from being able to sense the players presence. The player can then use the Z-Ray to both freeze the monster, and reveal the monsters true form. This also alerts the monsters to the players current position, and when they are released from the Z-Ray they charge at the player. Using this freeze and chase mechanic, the player can then assist the lab in recapturing their escaped creatures.
Release: This game was created as part of the year long Senior Game Design sequence at UCSC. It game was completed in June 2011. Unfortunately, we are unable to distribute it at this time. The team is currently discussing a possible release of the game with Sony.
Mechanics
This game is based on freeze/chase mechanics. The Z-Ray (represented by the Move controller) will both freeze the monster and alert it to your location. It is very similar to a matador/bull (and has also been referred to as reverse pool). The player activates the monster, which then runs straight for the location of the player.
Regular Monsters
These monsters take the players location at release from the Z-Ray and run until they hit something, whether that is the player, a wall, a plasma field or a containment field.
Bouncing Monsters
These monsters have the same functionality of regular monsters, except when they hit something they take the reflective angle and keep moving. They cannot be stopped short of containment.
Smart Bouncing Monsters
The scariest of the monsters. When these creatures hit a wall or plasma field, they knock off their shroud briefly and relocate the player. The only way to stop these monsters is to get out of their line of sight, or contain them.
Shriekers
These are bouncing monsters that additionally let out a loud screech and alert other monsters in the vicinity to your location.
Containment Fields
Monster jail! Guide the creatures here to complete each level.
Color
Monsters and puzzles are color coded. The Move bulb and other UI elements will alert you to the monsters color.
Plasma Fields and Switches
Monsters cannot cross through plasma fields of corresponding color unless they are turned off using a switch. Both the player and monsters can toggle switches.
