Overview

Cove was built in UE5 with in-house assets and tools as a settlement prototype. Taking prior lessons from the Villa map, structure and symmetry were thrown out in favor of a top-down piece using Bilgewater and Pirates of the Caribbean as reference points.

Being that this was not designed as an encounter space, the cove narratively represents a safe and reclusive hideout for the more nefarious types. The cove acts as an interconnected story hub with a few secrets of its own.

See the flyover for Cove below!

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Theme

Cove was another mostly-top-down work, recreating a hidden town stashed away from the prying eyes of the world. The docks are rife with black market deals and the interior cliffside houses larger abodes for those of higher repute as they look upon the workers below.

Layout

A main entrance sits on one end of the settlement, acting as what apparently is the only entry. A secret rear entrance is open to those privy to that knowledge. This settlement is lit with a few holes in the ceiling of the cave and the ambient light that reflects onto the water here.

Level Design

The first iteration was mostly a straight shot down the docks. Adding ship blockins, crates, and hanging fish carcassas gave purpose and life to the area. Once again, obstructing the player's view was critical in achieving the interesting framing and haphazard feel that was intended.