Unreal Engine 5 : Parkour Series- Bonus additions & bug fixes

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to the bonus additions and bug fixes related to parkour mechanics in Unreal Engine 5. Drawing from the video by UE4 Poseidon, this guide will help you enhance your parkour project with practical tips and insights on various mechanics. Whether you’re refining existing features or implementing new ones, this step-by-step approach will guide you through the key aspects of parkour functionality.

Step 1: Sliding

• Implement a sliding mechanic to help players navigate under obstacles.
• Adjust the character's collision settings to allow smooth transitions into the slide.
• Use the following code snippet to initiate the slide:

  if (IsSprinting && IsOnGround)
  {
      StartSlide();
  }
  

• Practical tip: Ensure that the slide duration is appropriately timed to maintain gameplay flow.

Step 2: Vaulting

• Vaulting allows players to overcome low obstacles.
• Create an animation for the vault action and link it to input commands.
• Utilize the following structure for the vault mechanic:

  if (IsNearObstacle && InputPressed)
  {
      PerformVault();
  }
  

• Common pitfall: Ensure that the vaulting animation blends well with the character movement to avoid jarring transitions.

Step 3: Mantling

• Mantling enables players to pull themselves up onto ledges.
• Set up a detection system for ledges within a certain height range.
• Use the following code to trigger mantling:

  if (IsNearLedge && InputPressed)
  {
      StartMantle();
  }
  

• Real-world application: Enhance level design with varied ledge heights to challenge players.

Step 4: Sprinting

• Sprinting increases the player’s speed temporarily.
• Allow players to sprint by holding down a specific key.
• Implement the sprint mechanic with:

  if (InputKey == SprintKey)
  {
      MaxSpeed = SprintSpeed;
  }
  

• Practical tip: Add stamina management to prevent indefinite sprinting for balanced gameplay.

Step 5: Beam Walking

• Beam walking involves traversing narrow surfaces.
• Adjust the character's balance and alignment settings for improved precision.
• Trigger beam walking with:

  if (IsOnBeam)
  {
      SetCharacterBalance();
  }
  

• Common pitfall: Ensure the visual feedback is clear when on a beam to prevent player frustration.

Step 6: Ledge Climbing

• Ledge climbing allows players to ascend ledges.
• Create animations and conditions for the climbing action.
• Use the following code:

  if (IsClimbing && InputPressed)
  {
      ClimbUp();
  }
  

• Practical tip: Limit climbing to specific surfaces to maintain game structure.

Step 7: Cover System

• Implement a cover system for tactical gameplay.
• Allow players to snap into cover when near walls.
• Use:

  if (IsNearCover && InputPressed)
  {
      EnterCover();
  }
  

• Real-world application: Design levels that encourage strategic use of cover.

Step 8: Wall Run and Slide

• Wall running adds dynamic movement options.
• Set conditions for wall running based on player speed and wall angle.
• Implement with:

  if (IsRunning && IsNearWall)
  {
      StartWallRun();
  }
  

• Common pitfall: Ensure the wall run duration is limited to maintain challenge.

Step 9: Wall Climbing

• Wall climbing enables vertical movement on steep surfaces.
• Create a detection system for appropriate wall types.
• Use:

  if (IsOnClimbableWall)
  {
      StartClimb();
  }
  

• Practical tip: Vary wall climb speeds based on surface material.

Step 10: Double Jump

• Double jumping allows players to gain extra height.
• Implement a cooldown for the double jump to prevent spamming.
• Use:

  if (CanDoubleJump)
  {
      PerformDoubleJump();
  }
  

• Common pitfall: Ensure the jump height is balanced with other mechanics.

Step 11: Roll, Dodge, and Dash

• These actions provide evasive maneuvers in gameplay.
• Map these actions to specific input commands.
• Use:

  if (InputPressed == RollKey)
  {
      PerformRoll();
  }
  

• Practical tip: Include invincibility frames during these actions for fair gameplay.

Step 12: Predictive Move

• Implement predictive movement to enhance player control.
• Use player input to adjust movement direction dynamically.
• Employ:

  if (InputDirection != CurrentDirection)
  {
      AdjustMovement();
  }
  

• Real-world application: This can improve player responsiveness in fast-paced scenarios.

Conclusion

This tutorial covered various parkour mechanics that enhance gameplay in Unreal Engine 5. By implementing these features, you can create a more dynamic and engaging player experience. Remember to test each mechanic thoroughly to ensure they work seamlessly together. For further enhancements, consider exploring the complete project files available from the creator. Happy developing!