The Springloader is a new weapon archetype that was introduced in Skull and Bones Season 2: Chorus of Havoc.
This weapon is an auxiliary weapon, capable of rotating and shooting an explosive buoy in any direction around the ship, by using a spring-loaded mechanism.

At the time of developing this feature, I wanted to learn more about the data in the game and engine. I also had slightly under 2 months to learn and complete this task. Hence, throughout the process, I consulted many more experienced co-workers and learnt how a new weapon is typically created in Skull and Bones.

I contributed to this archetype through:

• Rigging

• Skinning

• Animations

• Animation state machine

• Minion data setup

• Asset integration and setup

• New gameplay hooks

• Icon category setup and integration

• Adding to existing weapon rigging pipeline

Reusing Assets

At the time of development, there existed 2 other auxiliary weapons, the Rocket and Mortar. I studied these 2 weapons and their similarities, and re-used as much of their assets as possible. This included reusing the weapon and minion animations, gameplay states, parts of the skeleton, and the base of the weapon. By doing so, I reduced the amount of new assets loaded or being packaged with the game, as well as, the work that I needed to do to bring this weapon to life.

Integration and Data Setup

The integration and data setup is unique to Anvil engine, which I cannot disclose. However, the process of understanding this data has led me to improve my ability to work with the engine, allowing me to create and optimise new features more effectively. I also communicated with my co-workers often, leading to a closer and more collaborative working relationship, built on the sharing of knowledge.