Starfield: Firefly

Circular Combat Flow

For the exterior, I used catwalks and high ground to divide the space into distinct functions: the main combat area, the main walkway, and an alternate path. I established the intended gameplay function for each space, then placed cover to support the utility of those zones.

I first created the catwalk, which separates the area into three parts: the paths on both sides and the central area. Because the middle was too wide, I divided it into two paths and then placed cover to fill the combat zone. To complete the circular flow, I added a secondary staircase at the rear of the catwalks and joined the catwalks in the center, eliminating dead ends and supporting continuous player movement.

For the interior, emphasizing verticality expanded traversal choices and introduced greater complexity to NPC pathing and AI behavior. Multiple staircases create a vertical loop between two levels, allowing players to retreat to high ground for a tactical advantage or drop down to flank.

Landmark Design

In the exterior, I used soft visual guidance. The architectural skyline creates leading lines that draw the eye toward the main objective, ensuring that the mission-critical building remains the focal point of the environment.

Inside the quest, I used the Center Hall as a landmark. It sits at the heart of the interior structure and players visit it multiple times, so I reinforced its visual identity with unique assets and a specialized color scheme.

Hybrid Narrative

I expanded the background through branching dialogue outside the main questline, clarifying the origins of the conflict and giving players deeper context.

As the mission moves indoors, Doctor Anderson is the only character available for dialogue. I used terminals and data slates to offer alternative perspectives on the events, increasing the number of narrative beats throughout the level.