two x 4 racing

Two x 4 Racing is a cooperative time trial racing game that tests players ability to coordinate, operating with custom made bikewheel steering wheels made by me. One pilot steers the contraption while the other operates the “engine crank”, keeping the car moving. At any time players can switch roles by pressing the large red button on their controlers. It was a finalist at the alt.ctrl.GDC 2023 showcase.

POST MORTEM

Our teaser trailer - and submission video for alt.ctrl.GDC 2023


Contributions:

  • Writing and implementing the framework for the vehicle physics controller in Unity, based on the need for a more realistic wheel collider based system

  • Level design and iteration pulling from playtest feedback, the goal being a realistic learning curve.

  • Level Decoration

  • Composing soundtrack and all audio effects

  • Mechanical design and assembly of our custom controllers. Including the woodwork, wiring, and arduino coding required.

The original concept for the track was all downhill, but led to an overly chaotic experience that was next to impossible to complete.

The final track design gave the players a wide open straight away and large, easy curves towards the beginning. Then tighter curves and dangerous cliffs towards the end of the track. Designed to be a short experience, this was made to give the player time to learn and a challenge at the end, wrapped into a ~3 min playtime.

The controller was built with accessibility in mind:

  • the controller can be tilted over to be played standing or sitting

  • the controller layout is large and simple with two inputs, and a second button has been added on the opposite side so that the player can choose which is more comfortable.