Setting Up BBBP! – Project Organization & Animation Woes

Auther: Evan Lapice

Date:  11/07/2024

The Problem

This week’s production focus for Bubble Bubble Bubble Bubble Pop! (BBBP!) wasn’t just about diving into gameplay but also setting up the foundational systems and assets for the game. One of the big challenges I faced was setting up Perforce for source control, which is essential for tracking changes as the project grows. Additionally, I ran into trouble with the character animations and model compatibility while using Mixamo, Luma AI, and AccuRIG – I couldn’t get the movements to sync up perfectly in Unreal. This kind of setup issue affects everything from player immersion to testing workflows, so getting it sorted was essential to keep production smooth.

The Solution

After trying everything with Luma AI and AccuRIG, I pivoted to using Mixamo animations. This approach brought better results immediately. I was able to get characters moving more smoothly, with fewer issues during imports to Unreal. Although this is a temporary fix, it’s letting me move forward while I explore other solutions or settings that could make Luma AI and AccuRIG work in future updates.

On the setup side, getting Perforce configured was a huge help. Now,I and if i add more team members in the future we can contribute to the project without the risk of overwriting anyone’s work. (MAYBE) This organization means we can build out new features while minimizing miscommunication, so our bubble-popping fun stays on track!

What’s Next

For Bubble Bubble Bubble Bubble Pop!, my next steps are to:

• Refine Animations – Continue improving character animations, with the goal of achieving smoother movement and interactions.
• Implement Projectile Shooting – Set up the basic upward shooting mechanic with cooldowns to allow players to start popping bubbles and enemies.
• Bubble Bouncing Physics – Make sure bubbles bounce properly off surfaces, split into smaller bubbles when hit.
• Start on Enemy AI Types – Begin setting up enemy behaviors, focusing on the Standard Shooter first and adding more complexity from there.

This plan will help build a solid gameplay foundation, making sure core mechanics feel responsive and enjoyable.