Project info
- Developer Diogo Melo
- Showcase year 2025
- Programme Game Design and Production
Synopsis
This project explores how level design techniques like lighting and audio-visuals can evoke fear, anxiety and paranoia in a first-person psychological horror game. It also examines how psychological principles and spatial design heighten feelings of unease and dread. Using Unreal Engine 5, the game follows a player walking home after a late-night shift, navigating eerie environments filled with darkness and tension. However, they never truly make it home — revealing they were trapped from the start. This serves as a commentary on poor urban design, suggesting that safety and accessibility were overlooked.
What motivated you to develop/create this project?
This project was inspired by my experiences walking home at night and feeling unsafe due to poor urban design. Bad lighting, empty streets, and isolated paths created anxiety and fear. I wanted to capture that in a psychological horror game, using design, lighting, and audio to reflect those unsettling feelings. It also highlights how poor urban design can make everyday spaces feel unsafe and increase vulnerability.
What has been a highlight of your time at Abertay?
A highlight of my time at Abertay was the DES 310 Professional Project. It was a great learning opportunity where I developed essential skills in communication, sharing ideas, and working effectively as part of a team. Having the chance to meet with industry professionals and hear their feedback was invaluable and an amazing experience.
What are your hopes and future ambitions for after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work in a small indie company, creating fun, meaningful games that make an impact on players.
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