Leveraging procedural generation in survival games: Innovations and techniques for PC and console

Procedural content generation uses algorithms to automatically create elements in survival games for PC, and eliminates human intervention. From multifaceted characters and convoluted levels to complicated terrains and detailed encounters with the enemy, PCG can do it all. The data is generated during runtime.
Game Developers define parameters and rules to make sure that the content that will be generated aligns with specified design standards. Of course, expectations of gamers have to be met as well.

There are two ways of generating environments: you can either do it manually, which will take you ages and backbreaking effort; or you can make use of procedural generation and recreate the stunning early morning scenery in much less time and with far less effort.

Manual creation is definitely possible; however, procedural generation can be used to reduce effort, increase efficiency and speed, and lower production costs of survival games for console and PC. Large and complex game environments can be populated swiftly with procedural content generation. With environments subject to change in every session, players get novel experiences every time, boosting replayability.

The more expansive and unpredictable the environment, the more exciting the gameplay in exploration and survival genres. PCG can dynamically render surprising challenges, keeping gamers deeply engrossed and on the edge. The unending variation and surprise elevate the survival gaming experience for players.

Generic uses

Procedural generation is normally used to compress data, boost the replay value and scalability, and to reuse data. When used in survival games for PC, it enriches the gaming experience significantly.

Specific uses

Procedural generation can be used in several areas in survival games for PC. We will look at some of them below:

• Levels – Algorithms can be used in 2D rogue-like and survival games to generate new levels automatically.
• Terrain – This is perhaps the most common and popular way in which PCG is used. You can create an entire universe using this method.
• Animation – You can achieve bespoke, smooth-flowing character animations.
• Storylines – Procedural dialogue generation can result in distinct gameplay; of course, the gamer’s choices in the course of the game can affect the storyline. Depending on the character’s responses to events, the storyline may create its own content on the fly.
• Loot systems – These can be created with an algorithm in quest games, with the loot being generated depending on the player’s level. The higher the level, the rarer the generated loot.
• Instantiation of objects – Also called spawning, this is a very common use of PCG in survival games for PC. Trees, particle systems, enemies, loot, and others are spawned.

Many algorithms are used for procedural generation, depending on what content is required.

Terrain

Simplex noise and Perlin noise are the most common choices for creating landscapes. They initiate gradient patterns that mimic the unpredictability of nature and render natural terrain and realistic textures.

Levels

In survival games for PC, levels and their layouts are critical; the cellular automation algorithm provides a robust structure for the same. There is a grid of cells, and the state of each cell changes based on predefined rules that factor in the state of the surrounding cells. Intricate city layouts, complex labyrinths, and others can be very effectively generated with PCG.

Reproducible output

Random seed generation is vital here; you can generate reproducible output that enables uniform testing and engaging gameplay experiences. You begin with a seed and use a base number to configure the randomness to yield both consistency and variety in survival game environments.

A number of sophisticated technologies impact how the future of PCG is evolving:

Machine learning

This involves training AI algorithms to dynamically render game content based on choices and decisions of players.

Procedural audio

The innovations in procedural audio generation enable developers to dynamically create soundscapes and background music aligned to various in-game events.

Generative adversarial networks (GANs).

If you want to generate convincing textures and assets, and ensure depth and fidelity for procedural environments, then GANs are the go-to choice.

Let us check out some of the best survival games PC:

Deep Rock Galactic

An FPS game where players hunt for treasure on a hostile planet by exploring its caves, while staving off an unending army of alien invaders.

Developer: Ghost Ship Games
Engine: Unreal Engine 4
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows

No Man’s Sky

Probably one of the best multiplayer survival games, it uses PCG to develop distinctive planets with unique ecosystems, climates, and terrains. The constant danger you face as you explore is sure to keep you on your toes for a long time.

Developer: Hello Games
Engine: Proprietary
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

Dwarf Fortress

PCG has been used to create a complete, intricate world in this game, including history. Players have to build a fortress and help the dwarves survive in this world. It is one of the most popular multiplayer survival games in the market today.

Developer: Bay 12 Games
Engine: Proprietary
Platforms: Linux, macOS, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows, Mac operating systems, Classic macOS

Minecraft

One of the popular survival-building games, Minecraft is a limitless 3D world composed of blocks that players can build further and explore. The blocks can transform into almost anything that you want it to be. It is also one of the best survival games mobile gamers can get their hands on.

Developers: Mojang Studios, Other Ocean Interactive, 4J Studios, Xbox Game Studios, Other Ocean Group
Engine: Lightweight Java game library
Platforms: Linux, Microsoft Windows, macOS

Enter the Gungeon

This is a roguelike survival game where players called ‘gungeoneers’ comb through PCG rooms to find a gun that will help them ‘kill’ the past. Fast-paced and full of bullet gameplay, it’s a dream come true for Xbox survival games enthusiasts.

Developers: Dodge Roll, Mythic Entertainment, 22nd Century Toys LLC
Engine: Unity
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia

Subnautica

This is one of the best VR survival games where you can virtually dive and explore the deep and vast oceans, encounter sea monsters, marvel at exotic corals, and go spelunking while trying to stay alive.

Developers: Unknown Worlds Entertainment
Engine: Unity
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 4|5, Nintendo Switch

Economical

PCG eliminates the need for big teams of designers and enables studios to make better uses of available resources.

Improved replayability

With every playthrough, players can get bespoke experiences, when procedural generation is used. This induces them to replay the game frequently.

Quick development

It is possible to generate environments on a large scale and create detailed content in a fraction of the time it would take to do it manually. This ensures swift turnaround time for projects, allowing game development companies to deliver intricate and engaging game worlds within set budgets and timelines.

Scalable, consistent and flexible

Developers can easily scale up game areas without requiring more resources or time. Moreover, design changes in the game can be quickly implemented with just a minor adjustment in the algorithm, rather than manually rectifying large portions. With procedural development, you can confirm that game elements align with quality standards, and avoid corrections.

Deeper player engagement

You can deliver unique, engaging content that encourages players to keep returning to the game repeatedly. Automated rendering of scenarios, items, and environments ensures that individual players have distinct experiences, leading to nail-biting thrills and heightened surprise.

Challenges with PCG

As with any other technology, PCG too has a few challenges. You may generate monotonous or boring content, which can dull the appeal of the game. Developers must include adequate variation on the algorithms, and mix handmade designs with procedural elements to avoid this situation.

When randomly generated elements interact unexpectedly, bugs may develop; this can be avoided by properly testing the game prior to release.

Juego Studios has profound expertise in developing survival games for PC. Our team is adept at staying on top of the most innovative technologies to deliver superlative experiences to gamers. Whether it’s getting characters to traverse through complex caves or explore alien terrain, fight off monstrous invaders, or lead others to safety, our team will be happy to create an entire universe with procedural generation and craft edge-of-the-seat thriller games for you.