In the latest devlog for a spaceship game using Unreal Engine 5, the team introduces a new layered material system and showcases a redesigned flyable spaceship, “The Sojourner,” emphasizing its slower speed and defensive capabilities. A significant highlight is the overhaul of the movement system, incorporating physics-based controls and a dynamic mass system that impacts ship performance, enhancing gameplay strategies.
In the latest devlog for a spaceship game being developed using Unreal Engine 5, Level Cap shares exciting updates on various aspects of the game’s development. He introduces a new layered material system that enhances texture detail, particularly on in-game assets like the nav beacon. This overhaul includes improved modeling and the implementation of a decal system, which allows for higher resolution textures. The team is pleased with the progress, although they acknowledge that the nav beacon is still a work in progress.
The devlog also showcases a new flyable spaceship called “The Sojourner,” which has undergone significant design changes. Level Cap explains that this cargo ship variant is designed to be slower and less armed compared to other ships, but it still features missile pods and turrets for defense. The team is also exploring more creative designs for multi-role ships, collaborating with a concept artist to refine ship designs before moving into detailed modeling.
A major focus of this devlog is the complete overhaul of the movement system, which now incorporates complex physics-based controls. The team has introduced a system that allows for precise control over every vector of thrust on the ships, enabling a more nuanced flying experience. The programmer Mr. Meteor has been instrumental in developing this system, which includes mouse-controlled aiming to enhance gameplay mechanics and simplify AI development.
Additionally, the team is implementing a dynamic mass system that affects ship performance based on cargo and components. This system distinguishes between dry mass (the ship’s empty weight) and wet mass (the weight with cargo and fuel), allowing players to customize their ships and see how weight impacts acceleration and maneuverability. The developers are aiming to make this system intuitive and impactful, influencing gameplay strategies such as cargo management and combat performance.
Level Cap wraps up the devlog by expressing gratitude to the community for their support and involvement in the development process. He invites viewers to join the game’s Discord for further engagement and encourages them to check out previous devlogs for more insights. The team is excited about the ongoing progress and is eager to continue refining the game’s mechanics to enhance player experience.