Gladiator Arena:

• Genre: 3D Third-Person Action-RPG (Souls-like)

• Engine: Unreal Engine 5

• Highlights of the Game

  • Advanced AI Boss System: Engineered sophisticated behavior tree architecture with state-based decision making (Idle → Range → Melee → Charge → Rage), featuring probabilistic attack selection and distance-based combat strategies for dynamic, adaptive enemy encounters.

  • Hybrid C++/Blueprint Architecture: Developed scalable component-based systems using UPROPERTY and UFUNCTION macros to bridge C++ performance with Blueprint flexibility, enabling rapid iteration while maintaining code efficiency.

  • Precision Combat Framework: Implemented socket-based weapon tracing with animation montage sequencing, root motion integration, and stamina-based resource management for responsive, timing-critical souls-like combat mechanics.

  • Intelligent Lock-On System: Created interface-driven targeting mechanics with custom collision channels, dynamic camera control via Spring Arm components, and observer pattern integration for seamless combat-to-exploration transitions.

  • Modular Component Design: Architected specialized systems (StatsComponent, CombatComponent, TraceComponent) with interface polymorphism (IFighter, IMainPlayer, IEnemy) enabling flexible character extensions and clean separation of concerns.

  • Enhanced Input Integration: Leveraged UE5's Enhanced Input System with custom Input Action mappings and Animation Blueprint integration featuring Blend Spaces for fluid animation transitions based on player state.

  • Performance-Optimized Systems: Implemented TMap-based stat storage replacing string references, efficient collision detection with proper memory management, and conditional component updates for optimal performance scaling.

  • Event-Driven Communication: Developed delegate broadcasting system using Observer pattern for health updates, combat state changes, and cross-component data queries without tight coupling dependencies.

• Key Takeaways

  • Advanced Game Architecture: Mastered component-based design patterns, interface segregation, and observer pattern implementation for maintainable, scalable 3D action-RPG systems.

  • Unreal Engine 5 Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency in Animation Blueprints, Behavior Trees, Enhanced Input System, and C++/Blueprint hybrid development workflows for AAA-quality game mechanics.

  • AI Programming Mastery: Developed complex state machines, PawnSensing integration, and Blackboard management for intelligent, adaptive enemy behaviors with dynamic difficulty scaling.

  • Performance Engineering: Enhanced skills in memory management, collision optimization, and efficient update cycles for maintaining smooth gameplay during intensive combat scenarios with multiple AI entities.