More Explosives - DayZ Mod

More Explosives is a mod for the game DayZ that adds a customizable explosive and base raiding framework to the game. Players can use this mod's explosives in a variety of ways, ranging from breaking into another player's base or setting up an ambush during PVP, all the way to using them as a distraction for zombies while looting an abandoned military outpost. The explosives themselves can be placed on structures, freely attached to dynamic objects and surfaces (e.g., vehicles) or even hidden inside an inventory as a little surprise for an unsuspecting player. Additionally, they can be fitted with several different types of triggers, including configurable timers and remote receivers that can be connected to multiple detonators at once.

While this mod has similar use-cases in comparison to my other DayZ mod Breachingcharge, it offers far greater adaptability to specific in-game economies, is more compatible with other mods, offers engaging gameplay scenarios outside of just base raiding, and most importantly, has cleaner, better-performing code that is easily extendable.

What was my role?

As the main developer I've worked on all aspects of the mod, be it writing and structuring the code, creating fitting, functional 3D models or providing extensive documentation for users and other modders. Some of the most notable features include:

Custom Networking: Since DayZ is primarily a multiplayer game, a big focus of the mod was the implementation of efficient networking solutions. These solutions range from something straightforward like syncing the timer of an explosive, to a state-based synchronization system for replicating an explosive's connected detonators while only sending the bare minimum amount of data.

Integration into existing systems: In order to make the mod work with other mods right out of the gate, it hooks into the base game's systems and builds on top of them to allow for greater customizability. This means that server owners are offered a familiar way to adjust the mod's behaviour and items using a custom config file, but also that compatibility with other mods is ensured without the need for further scripting.

Extendability: Since this mod also acts as a framework that other modders can build upon, it was created with extendability in mind. Most of the mod's systems and mechanics can easily be modified, extended or replaced with custom variants, allowing things like custom damage and destruction systems to be implemented or alternative explosives, triggers and crafting items to be introduced.

Custom 3D Models: All models for the mod have been created from scratch to fit the aesthetics of the game and preserve the player's immersion. To achieve this, a high- to low-poly workflow in Blender and Substance Painter has been used to make the various items look convincing and fit into the game world.