Mystic Fishing

Mystic Fishing – Ryan Laley Games Game Jam 2024

Role: Level Designer / Gameplay Systems Designer

Set in a tranquil Nordic-inspired world, Mystic Fishing invites players to explore icy waters in search of ancient mythological fish. Built in Unreal Engine, the game blends calm exploration with interactive, skill-based harpoon fishing. I was responsible for level layout, boat movement and control, water and fish spawning systems, and early mechanical/world concepting.

Initially pitched as a time-traveling fishing adventure through multiple mythologies, the project evolved into a focused vertical slice—emphasizing exploration, rune-based fish combat, and trading. Despite cuts to some of the original scope, core mechanics such as mouse-based quick-time harpoon duels, a working bait-and-trade economy, and dynamic music/environment systems were implemented and showcased.

Key Contributions:

• Level Design: Built the explorable ocean environment, including the merchant shack, rare fish zones, and player guidance layout.
• Boat and Water Physics: Designed and tuned boat controls for smooth traversal; integrated physical water response.
• Spawning and Economy Systems: Created a modular fish spawning system with rarity scaling tied to zone and bait; connected core loop of catching → selling → upgrading bait.
• Audio & Mood: Set up layered ambient music triggers and environment blending for a calm, mythic vibe.
• Narrative & Concept: Pitched the original story idea of traveling through mythologies with a magical fishing grimoire. While the final game shifted directions, the early tone and lore foundations remain.

👉 Play Mystic Fishing on Itch.io