CRAFTING Smooth and Engaging Multiplayer Gameplay in Voyagers of Nera
Voyagers of Nera, a cooperative survival-crafting game.
Launching an all-new IP is a daunting task, especially when a critical aspect of the game depends on a persistent and reliable multiplayer experience. Between 2023 and 2024, our lead studio on the project, Black Shamrock, delivered critical gameplay and technical systems that underpin the game’s smooth multiplayer experience and vibrant world-building.
- Seamlessly integrated within Treehouse Games’ codebase and development team for effective collaboration
- Delivered robust Unreal Engine 5 multiplayer systems supporting up to 16 players with smooth synchronization
- Developed flexible, modular asset data structures and character customization systems for rapid iteration
- Enhanced enemy AI to support complex multi-player tracking and dynamic projectile combat
- Adapted quickly to evolving priorities, demonstrating responsiveness and technical excellence
Movement & Synchronization
Virtuos’ engineers undertook a major rewrite of the boat movement and synchronization code within Unreal Engine 5. This allowed up to 16 players to experience highly responsive and smooth sailing, even under harsh network conditions. The rewrite was essential for delivering the cooperative teamwork and precision gameplay central to Voyagers of Nera’s unique multiplayer dynamic.
for Rapid Iteration
To empower quick iteration and customization, we implemented a modular, data-driven asset architecture alongside a sophisticated character creator and cosmetic appearance system. This framework enables Treehouse Games to plug and play various outfits and cosmetics seamlessly, supporting evolving player personalization and aesthetic diversity.
Virtuos enhanced enemy AI to intelligently perceive and track multiple players simultaneously, resulting in more engaging combat encounters. Additionally, we developed ranged projectiles that follow a realistic arc and synchronize smoothly in multiplayer sessions, allowing players to skillfully dodge attacks in rewarding combat scenarios.
Our team delivered essential gameplay systems, including replicated boat and character movement, AI ranged attacks that dynamically follow players, and a detailed character creator allowing customization of facial features, body types, and clothing.
These efforts highlight Black Shamrock’s technical expertise and dedication to realizing complex multiplayer systems within Unreal Engine 5.
“Virtuos helped us pull off two big parts of Voyagers Of Nera: the character creator and multiplayer boat gameplay. These were very ambitious features that we wouldn’t have managed on our own in the same timeframe. Their work really brought those systems to life. The team was quick, talented, and super easy to work with. They weren’t just checking off tasks—they really got what we were going for and felt like part of the team.
Absolutely, I will recommend Virtuos to other developers. They were Unreal experts who could tackle anything we threw at them. They were incredibly adaptable when our plans and priorities shifted. They were a major force multiplier for our team and were a joy to collaborate with.”
Ryan Sullivan
Co-Founder and President, Treehouse Games
Check out the behind-the-scenes project deep dive with Treehouse Games
Virtuos is proud to have contributed pivotal gameplay and technical systems to Voyagers of Nera, helping bring to life an engaging multiplayer sailing adventure with depth, polish, and player-first design.
This partnership stands as an example of our expertise in Unreal Engine development, collaborative workflows, and delivering impactful live game features that faithfully realize a studio’s vision.
