Hey everyone! Mateo here. It’s been a minute, but I’ve got some awesome updates on my VR project, ‘Disembodied.’ I’m really pushing forward with this one, and the latest big step is the implementation of a basic climbing mechanic.
This was a fun challenge. Getting the physics and the player’s sense of presence right when they’re reaching for ledges and pulling themselves up is tricky. In the current build, it’s pretty straightforward – you grab onto a surface, and you can pull yourself up. It’s not super complex yet, but it’s a solid foundation.
From a development standpoint, I’ve been diving deep into inverse kinematics (IK) to make the character’s hands and arms feel more natural as they interact with the environment. Getting that feeling of weight and resistance when climbing is key to making it feel immersive, and I think I’m starting to nail it. There’s definitely a sweet spot between making it feel responsive and making it feel like you’re actually exerting effort.
So, why climbing? Well, it opens up so many possibilities for level design and player interaction. Think about exploring vertical spaces, finding hidden paths, or even just the simple satisfaction of reaching a high vantage point. It adds a whole new layer of engagement to the VR experience.
But this is just the start. I’m already thinking about how to expand on this. Imagine more advanced climbing techniques like mantling, using your feet for extra grip, or even dynamic climbing challenges that require quick reactions. I’m also experimenting with different locomotion methods to give players choices that suit their comfort levels.
Beyond climbing, I’m working on refining the overall VR interaction model. The goal is to make interacting with the world feel intuitive and rewarding, whether you’re picking up objects, manipulating tools, or navigating complex environments.
I’m really excited about where ‘Disembodied’ is headed. This basic climbing feature is a huge milestone, and I can’t wait to show you what’s coming next. Stay tuned for more updates and, of course, more videos showing off the progress!
Catch you in the next one!