GDC 2025 Session Viewer

In this session, the team behind Star Wars Outlaws dives into the technical challenges and innovations involved in creating seamless level transitions using the Snowdrop Engine. Attendees will explore how the developers overcame the engine's initial limitations to eliminate loading screens, maintaining immersion in the game's vast, explorable galaxy. The talk covers the development of a sophisticated transition system that integrates the player's customizable spaceship, blending environments and managing complex in-game elements like sound, lighting, and weather. Through detailed technical breakdowns and real-world examples, including notable bugs and their solutions, participants will gain valuable insights into the complexities of crafting seamless transitions in modern game development.

Takeaway

Attendees will learn how the Star Wars Outlaws team achieved seamless level transitions by eliminating loading screens. They will gain insights into blending weather presets, managing a customizable spaceship's interior, and maintaining partial player control during transitions. The session will also cover real-world challenges, such as fixing issues like snow inside the spaceship, showcasing advanced technical problem-solving and innovation.

Intended Audience

This session is aimed at game developers, programmers, and technical artists interested in advanced techniques for seamless level transitions. A basic understanding of game engine fundamentals is helpful but not required. Attendees will gain valuable insights into implementing immersive transitions and overcoming technical challenges in game development.