How can I use the height of animatronics in Five Nights at Freddy’s to create appropriately scaled characters in my horror game?

Using Animatronic Heights for Scaled Character Design in Horror Games

Creating appropriately scaled characters in horror games like Five Nights at Freddy’s requires careful consideration of the dimensions of each character, particularly when adapting or using references from existing properties such as the FNAF series. Here’s how you can leverage animatronic heights to inform your design:

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1. Reference and Gather Data

• Start by collecting accurate height data of animatronics. The FNAF Non-VR Help Wanted Gallery and resources like the FNAF Wiki can provide such details, like Funtime Freddy’s height.
• Use in-game references and official character illustrations for more dimensional insights.

2. Model Scaling

• Once you have the height data, scale your character models in your chosen game engine (such as Unity or Unreal Engine) using their unit system – typically meters or centimeters.
• Ensure consistency across different characters to maintain immersion and make environments feel realistic. For example, if Funtime Freddy is 2.2 meters tall, use this baseline to scale other animatronics accordingly.

3. Environmental Context

• Ensure the environment is scaled proportionately. Doors, corridors, and interactable elements should reflect the characters’ sizes to avoid breaking the illusion.
• Analyze how characters like animatronics interact with their environment in the FNAF games to replicate similar dynamics.

4. AI and Animation Considerations

• Consider the animatronics’ movements and their impact on scale. Larger characters need more precise collision detection and animation rigging to move convincingly.
• Incorporate animatronic AI behavior analysis to inform character animations and interactions, as seen in FNAF tutorials and creator insights.

5. Testing and Iteration

• Regularly test character scaling in-engine, adjusting viewport scales to maintain the intended feel and atmosphere of your horror game.
• Iterate based on feedback and observational tests, ensuring the scale supports the gameplay mechanics and storytelling.