Yang Gao
Game Producer
Dissonance
3D Top Down Adventure Thriller Game
Embarking on the captivating journey of "Dissonance," our game is a riveting exploration of supernatural anomalies, interdimensional beings, and the eerie landscapes of depopulated hazard zones. As the player, you assume the role of a specialized agent within a secretive organization armed with cutting-edge equipment.
This visionary project, born out of the University of Utah Entertainment Arts & Engineering program in October 2021, has been an extraordinary odyssey. Collaborating with a team of passionate, hardworking, and knowledgeable fellow students has enriched this experience. Through the undulating waves of development cycles, we stood united, working tirelessly to realize the initial vision.
As the sole producer, I've navigated the intricate web of project management, conducting stand-up meetings, and meticulously curating our Jira board. Beyond my role as a producer, I've contributed to various facets, from narrative design and writing support to character rigging and animation. Collaborating seamlessly, we've engaged with the Berklee School of Music for audio integration and devised a robust user research plan with a excellent user researcher fellow student, ensuring our game evolves in response to player feedback.
Our journey wasn't without challenges. Initial design choices, like separating camera control from player control, underwent transformation based on player feedback, ultimately crystallizing into a more immersive third-person experience. Addressing readability concerns, we conducted comprehensive user research, gathering valuable insights that guided us to enhance the player experience. Through strategic implementation of sounds, lights, and visual effects, we've elevated the game's clarity and engagement.
With immense pride, I reflect on our achievements. "Dissonance" stands as a testament to our collective dedication and creative synergy, realized in the dynamic realm of the Unreal Engine. My multifaceted role as a producer, animator, narrative contributor, and QA tester allowed me to contribute significantly to the project's success. From overseeing game production to fine-tuning communication channels, I've been deeply involved in shaping every aspect of our creation. As we unleash "Dissonance" onto the gaming community through Steam, I'm excited for players to immerse themselves in the unique universe we've meticulously crafted.