Tom Dutton

Horologe

Solo Puzzle-Horror Game

1st Place GradEx 2024 – Staffordshire University

Overview

Submission for my final year project at university. In 3 months I created a highly polished, thoroughly tested vertical slice for a puzzle-horror game. I focused on the implementation of environmental storytelling and player experience through many stages of iteration. This project was awarded 1st place for Game Design at GradEX 2024 for its immersive atmosphere and engaging puzzle mechanics.


— ROLES

Gameplay Designer, Level Designer, Programmer


— TOOLS

Unreal Engine 5


— DATE

July 2024

This project best demonstrated my ability to perform in various disciplines. This led me into programming all of the mechanics, implementing all sound effects and carrying out a large number of playtesting sessions. Thanks to countless hours of hard work, frequent communication with my supervisor and feedback from my peers, i was able to release a high quallity demo shaped carefully with user-feedback in mind. Countless adjustments were made throughout the project ensuring that the quality of the final build was exceptional.

In-game Screenshots

Extracts from my Design Document

Game Trailer and Design Commentary

Horologe Teaser Trailer

Created By: Tom Dutton

Music: Blink by Elysium Audio Labs

Design Commentary Video

Presentations

Another large element of this project meant that I had to pitch multiple presentations to my supervisors to discuss my design theory and the overall development process. I had to validate changes based on playtesting feedback and discuss potential improvements to ensure the project was always being driven in the right direction. Here are some extracts from my presentations.