RPG Level Design 3D model

1. Open World vs Linear vs Hub-based

• Open World: Skyrim, Breath of the Wild – freedom to explore.

• Linear: Final Fantasy XIII – strong narrative direction.

• Hub-Based: Dark Souls, Monster Hunter – interconnected zones.

• Decide early on how players will move through the world.

2. Level Flow & Player Guidance

• Use visual language: landmarks, lighting, paths to guide without UI.

• Breadcrumbing: Place interesting objects or encounters that subtly lead players in the right direction.

• Mix tight areas (dungeons, towns) with open exploration zones to vary pacing.

3. Modular Design

• Build modular kits in Blender (walls, floors, arches, rocks) for faster iteration.

• Unity’s ProBuilder can also help in greyboxing your levels quickly.

4. Narrative Integration

• Worldbuilding through level design: environmental storytelling (e.g. ruins, battlefields, old notes).

• Design quests that tie into the level organically, not just fetch 10 wolves.

5. Combat & Encounter Design

• Use level geometry to make encounters dynamic: choke points, cover, verticality.

• Space enemies intelligently: ambushes, arena fights, roaming patrols.

6. Puzzles & Exploration

• Include hidden areas, locked doors, or lore-rich objects to reward exploration.

• Layer puzzles with tools or abilities unlocked later (Metroidvania-style).

7. Progression & Economy

• Place loot, XP, and rewards carefully to balance challenge vs reward.

• Use environmental cues (like blood trails, glowing chests) to draw attention to rewards.

8. Testing & Iteration

• Playtest early and often.

• Observe where players get lost or bored.

• Block out the level first (greyboxing), then refine visuals.