Creating New Characters

Follow these steps to add a new playable character to your SlingshotSquad Template project.

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Step 1 – Create a Character Scriptable

1. In the Project window, right-click and select:

   Create > SlingshotPuzzle > CharacterData

2. Rename the new asset to match your character (e.g., BirdKnight, NinjaCat).

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Step 2 – Assign Character in GameInstance

1. Open the MainMenu scene.

2. Select the GameInstance object in the Hierarchy.

3. In the Character List field, add your new CharacterData asset.

4. Save the scene.

Your new character is now available in the selection system!

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Editable Variables (CharacterData)

Each CharacterData has public fields you can configure in the Unity Inspector:

🔹 Identity

• characterId → Unique numeric identifier for this character.

• characterIcon → Icon shown in the UI (character select, ammo container).

• characterName → Multilingual display name.

• characterDescription → Multilingual description text.

🔹 Prefab

• characterProjectile → Prefab of the projectile launched from the slingshot.

🔹 Skill

• skillData → Scriptable defining the character’s special ability.

🔹 Unlock

• isUnlocked → Defines if the character is available by default or needs to be unlocked.

🔹 Stats (CharacterStats struct)

• baseDamage → Flat damage dealt on every impact.

• impulseBonusFactor → How much impact force adds extra damage (0–1).

• damageMultiplier → Multiplier applied to all damage values.

• despawnDelay → Time before the projectile disappears.

• sleepVelocity → Minimum speed at which the projectile is considered at rest.

• collisionGraceTime → Time after launch where collisions are ignored (prevents instant self-hits).

• minImpactSpeed → Minimum speed required to trigger an impact.

• bonusIfUnused → Score bonus if this projectile is not used in the level.

🔹 FX and Visuals

• trailRendererPrefab → Trail effect while flying.

• stampTrailPrefab → Visual “stamp” left on ground or objects.

• impactVfx → Effect spawned when colliding (e.g., explosion, dust).

• launchSfx → Audio played once when launched.

• impactSfxList → List of random sounds triggered on impact.

• impactSfxCooldown → Minimum delay between two impact sounds.

• iconPrefab → UI prefab for the ammo container icon.

🔹 Skill Preview

• skillPreview → Prefab used in the unlock panel to showcase the character’s skill.

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✅ Quick Test

• Open DemoScene and select your new character from the menu.

• Launch it in-game and verify:

  • Trail, SFX, and VFX are working

  • Stats feel balanced

  • Skill executes correctly