How to Make a 3rd Person Game on GDevelop​​

Creating a 3rd person game on GDevelop​​ is an exciting challenge for game developers, whether beginners or experts. GDevelop, a no-code game engine, offers tools and features that allow you to design immersive and interactive 3D experiences. In this guide, we will explore how to make a 3rd person game on GDevelop​​ from scratch, covering everything from character movement to camera setup and gameplay mechanics.

3rd Person Game Mechanics

A 3rd person game allows players to control a character from a camera positioned behind or slightly above them. Unlike first-person games, where the player’s view is from the character’s eyes, a 3rd person game provides a wider field of vision, making it ideal for adventure, action, and exploration genres.

Core Elements of a 3rd Person Game

1. Character Controller – The main playable character that responds to user inputs.
2. Camera System – A dynamic camera that follows the player smoothly.
3. Environment & Levels – Well-designed game levels that enhance gameplay.
4. Collision Detection – Ensuring smooth interactions between the character and the game world.
5. Animations & Effects – Enhancing the visual appeal and realism of the game.

Now, let’s dive into how to make a 3rd person game on GDevelop​​ step by step.

Setting Up GDevelop for 3rd Person Gameplay

Before we start, ensure you have GDevelop installed. If not, download it from the official website and install it on your system.

Creating a New Project

1. Open GDevelop and create a new project.
2. Choose the “3D Game” template to enable 3D functionalities.
3. Save your project with an appropriate name.

Importing Assets

To make the game visually appealing, you need 3D models for your character, environment, and objects. You can find free and paid assets online or create your own using software like Blender.

Setting Up the Character

1. Add a new object and select “3D Model Object.”
2. Import your character model and adjust its position.
3. Add animations for walking, running, and jumping.
4. Set up movement controls using GDevelop’s behavior system.

Implementing Camera Controls

The camera is crucial for a 3rd person game, as it follows the player and adjusts dynamically.

Steps to Set Up a 3rd Person Camera

1. Add a “Camera” object to your scene.
2. Position the camera behind the player at a slight angle.
3. Use the “Follow Object” behavior to track the character’s movement.
4. Implement smooth transitions to avoid abrupt camera shifts.

Adjusting Camera Movement

You can enhance the player experience by implementing:

• Camera zoom to adjust distance based on player movement.
• Rotation mechanics to follow the player’s direction dynamically.
• Collision detection to prevent the camera from passing through objects.

Adding Character Controls and Physics

For an engaging experience, character movement should be fluid and responsive.

Movement Mechanics

GDevelop allows you to set up movements using physics behaviors:

1. Enable “Top-Down Movement” behavior for basic navigation.
2. Adjust speed, acceleration, and friction values.
3. Implement a jump mechanic with a “Jump” action.
4. Add animations that switch based on movement state.

Implementing Gravity and Collision

Since 3rd person games often have a 3D environment, gravity must be simulated:

• Use a “Physics Engine” behavior to apply realistic gravity.
• Set up collision boxes to prevent the player from falling through the floor.
• Create invisible walls to restrict movement within the level.

Designing Game Levels

A well-designed level makes the game more engaging. GDevelop offers various tools to build immersive worlds.

Steps to Create a Level

1. Use 3D models to build terrains, buildings, and obstacles.
2. Add lighting effects to enhance visual depth.
3. Implement interactive objects like doors, collectibles, or moving platforms.
4. Use pathfinding for NPC movement to create realistic AI.

Implementing Game Objectives

Every game needs goals to keep players engaged.

Common Objectives in 3rd Person Games

• Mission-based objectives (e.g., collect items, defeat enemies)
• Puzzle-solving elements to encourage exploration.
• Timed challenges to create urgency and excitement.

Creating Game Logic in GDevelop

1. Use “Events” to trigger actions based on player behavior.
2. Implement UI elements to display health, score, and progress.
3. Add sound effects and background music for an immersive experience.

Optimizing Performance

For a smooth gameplay experience, optimizing performance is crucial.

Performance Optimization Tips

Testing and Debugging

Before launching your game, thorough testing is necessary.

Steps to Test Your Game

1. Check character movement – Ensure all animations work smoothly.
2. Test camera controls – Verify that the camera follows the player correctly.
3. Debug interactions – Fix any unexpected object collisions or glitches.
4. Optimize game speed – Monitor FPS and reduce lag.

Publishing Your Game

Once your game is complete, you can publish it for others to play.

Exporting Options in GDevelop

GDevelop allows you to export games to multiple platforms:

• Windows/macOS/Linux – Create standalone executable files.
• Web (HTML5) – Publish your game online for browser play.
• Mobile (Android/iOS) – Release on app stores.

Uploading to Gaming Platforms

You can share your game on platforms like Itch.io, GameJolt, or Steam for a wider audience.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you now have the knowledge to create a 3rd person game on GDevelop​​. With the right character controls, camera setup, level design, and optimization techniques, you can build an engaging and enjoyable gaming experience. Keep experimenting, testing, and refining your game to achieve the best results!