Challenge 4: Unreal Engine — Prototype Playable Character
⏱️ ~1–2 hrs
This is the first challenge requiring the use of the Unreal Engine. You may want to use this character later for your first full game, so make sure it’s fun to play!
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Why do this?
- Win rewards 🟡 by climbing the leaderboard and stand out for States. 🏆
- Build your first Unreal character; a playable prototype you can reuse for your game!
- Show real dev skills...a working demo video that proves it plays well.
Overview
Your task: Create a prototype playable character that meets this requirement: the player character must have a movement ability that enables them to reach high places.
You’ll submit:
- A publicly shared Google folder (so anyone can view) containing:
- Exported project zip file
- A video (screen recording or gameplay demo) showing your character in action
Your prototype must include:
- Custom controls and input handling
- A vertical movement ability
This is your chance to prove you can take a wild idea and make it walk, run, jump, or yeet.
What to Do (3 Steps)
1
Controls
- The controls must be smooth, responsive, and match your character’s mechanic.
- Inputs should be clearly mapped and fit the way your character moves or behaves.
2
Exporting to zip
Your project must be submitted as a .zip folder.
To do this:
1) Open your project in the Unreal Engine editor.
2) Press file in the top left toolbar.
3) Select “Zip Project”.
4) Save the zip folder somewhere you can easily reference.
3
You must submit
- A publicly shared Google folder (so anyone can view) containing:
- Your exported prototype files (or a link to a downloadable build)
- A short video demo (can be a screen recording, phone video, or embedded link) showing:
- The full range of your character’s controls
- The character reaching a high place
Pro Tips
- Test, test, test! Make sure everything works and feels good.
- Keep your video short but effective, just enough to show off the prototype in action.
- Give your character some personality...even a basic block can be fun to play if it’s got flair.
- Test your zip and make sure the project opens!
Scoring (Total: 150 pts)
Controls
Controls feel fluid, natural, and responsive across all intended mechanics. Custom input scheme fits the character's unique requirement.
50 pts
Functioning Movement Mechanic
Movement mechanic works seamlessly, is well-integrated into the prototype, and allows the player to reach high places.
70 pts
Creativity
The movement mechanic for reaching high places is highly creative, original, and well-integrated into the character's design. It feels fresh and imaginative.
30 pts
Heads up: Once you submit, you can’t edit your entry until it’s been scored.
