Skylanders: SWAP Force | NOVA

For more information on Skylanders: Swap Force, visit the official website

Responsibilities: Technical Designer, SWAP Zones

  • Only dedicated technical resource for design, implementation, and support of 42 instances of 8 SWAP Zone types
  • Scripted C# components for core SWAP Zone functionality, individual SWAP Zone types (e.g. Bounce, Climb, Stealth), and SWAP Zone assets (e.g. hazards, collectibles)
  • Built custom behavior graphs for SWAP Zone-specific character behaviors in Havok Behavior Tool
  • Scripted custom assets in game editor for use by level designers in populating SWAP Zones
  • Designed and built 5 level layouts in game editor for Teleport SWAP Zones
  • Responsible for coordinating work with and requesting assets from other scrum teams

Game Metrics

  • Developer: Vicarious Visions
  • Publisher: Activision
  • Role: Technical Designer
  • Engine: NOVA
  • Genre: Action platformer/"Toys to Life"
  • Team size for SWAP Zone development: 6-8

What I Learned

  • How to support other designers through effective communication, rapid script iteration, and user-friendly interfaces
  • How to work with a tools set undergoing active construction
  • How to be successful on a much larger development team
  • How to ramp up quickly on a project and tools set when a project is already under way

Gameplay Videos

Example Teleport SWAP Zone gameplay



Example Rocket SWAP Zone gameplay



Example Speed SWAP Zone gameplay
Example Climb SWAP Zone gameplay



Example Bounce SWAP Zone gameplay



Example Spin SWAP Zone gameplay