Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8185-1170

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis (Master's)

Department or Program

Computer Science

First Advisor

Lorie Loeb

Second Advisor

James Mahoney

Third Advisor

John Bell

Abstract

Digital terrain creation in Unity, especially for games, typically requires extensive manual effort, which is time-consuming and inefficient. Although procedural generation offers a systematic alternative, it often lacks the precision needed for specific design requirements, such as exact path or water body placements. This study introduces a novel modular tool that integrates manual input capabilities with automated procedural generation, aiming to combine the efficiency of procedural techniques with the precision of manual methods. The tool is designed for use within Unity, allowing for detailed customization and adjustments. Comprehensive user testing was conducted with 21 participants. The effectiveness of the tool was evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively. The overall feedback for the modular terrain building tool was highly positive, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Users praised the tool’s enjoyable using process, intuitive design, and the high quality of the terrains created, noting its efficiency in reducing terrain creation time. However, there were suggestions for more customization options and performance improvements. Overall, the tool was seen as a valuable asset for terrain building, effectively streamlining and enhancing the terrain creation process in Unity.

Original Citation

Huang, Kewen. "Enhancing Terrain Creation in Unity With a Hybrid Modular Tool: Integrating Procedural Generation and Manual Input for Optimized Design Flexibility and Efficiency" (2024). Dartmouth College Master’s Theses.

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