Welcome to our series highlighting new features in The Sandbox Game Maker 0.11 update.

The Sandbox Game Maker 0.11 is a versatile tool that enables creators to enhance player experiences through gameplay mechanics, introducing new layers of interactivity and engagement. In this three-part series, we’ll explain how to create fun games using social racing features, combination codes, and rotation, providing concrete, step-by-step examples of how to use these new features to bring a game to life.

Today, we’re examining how to use Rotate Behavior!

This new feature can be used to create more challenging platforming experiences. Update to the latest version of Game Maker and read on to get started.

This article is part of a three-part series about using new tools in Game Maker. To read more, click one of the links below:

1. Combination Codes
2. Social Racing Experiences
3. Rotate Behavior

Rotate Behavior

The new rotation feature lets assets rotate on various axes. It can be used in multiple ways, but you should consider the speed of rotation. It shouldn’t be too fast. Keep the movement simple so players can easily jump on and off.

Here are a few ways of being able to use this feature.

Rotating on an Actor

Rotating on an actor means the platform turns on its own axes. It can rotate on the X, Y, or Z axis, allowing for spinning platforms that turn on the spot.

How To Implement:

1. Place Your Asset

• Drop any asset you want to use.

2. Apply Rotate Behavior

• Choose "Rotate Actor."
• Set the Speed (keep it slow).
• Pick the X, Y, or Z axis for rotation.

Rotating Around

This setup allows an asset to spin around a central point, making it ideal for larger rotating platforms. The process is similar to Rotating on an Actor but with a different type of rotation.

How To Implement:

Follow the same steps as "Rotating on Actor" but choose the option for rotating around a center point.

Platforms That Rotate When a Player Jumps on Them

These platforms start spinning slowly when the player lands on them. This adds tension, requiring players to time their jumps carefully to avoid falling.

How To Implement:

1. Place Your Asset

• Drop your chosen asset.

2. Add Rotate Behavior

• Configure the Rotation Settings.

3. Add a Trigger Volume

• Place a Trigger Volume on the asset with a small Detection Radius.
• Set it to detect the player and assign an “Enter Message” that you’ll remember.

4. Add a Toggle

• Attach a Toggle to the asset.
• Set the Toggle to “false” at the start.
• Link the Toggle to activate with the message from the Trigger Volume.
• 
  

Now, the platform will start rotating when the player steps on it.

Design Considerations

• Once a platform starts rotating, it won’t stop unless you use a method to reset it, like replacing the platform. Consider if this fits your design needs.

Moving Platforms to Create Bridges or Shift Level Design

You can attach assets to create moving bridges or pathways. These platforms can be triggered by the player, adding puzzle elements or creating new paths.

Rotation to Create Bridges or Platforms

This method allows an object to be attached to a rotating element to create pathways or bridges. It can be used to design puzzles or platform sections by having the player interact with it, like pressing a button. This setup enables rotation to create new platforming challenges.

How To Implement:

1. Place a Numpad or Asset

• Add a small asset (like a numpad) at the point where you want to rotate around.
• Attach a toggle to it and set it to false by default. Set the Toggle Message to whatever you prefer.

2 Add a Rotate Behavior

• Attach a Rotation Behavior to the asset. Configure it to rotate on its axis so it spins in place. Adjust the rotation settings to suit your needs.

3. Place the Platform or Bridge Asset

• Position the asset that will serve as the platform or bridge so that its edge slightly overlaps with the numpad asset.

4. Attach the Platform to the Numpad

• In the hierarchy, attach the bridge asset to the numpad asset. This ensures the bridge will follow the numpad's rotation. To attach, simply drag the bridge asset onto the numpad.

5. Set Up a Button or Trigger

• Add a button or another trigger and set its message to match the one on the numpad. Ensure it's within range or properly configured to send the message to the numpad.

6. Set Up a Trigger Volume

• Place a trigger volume where you want the platform to stop. Set the "Enter" message to the same one used by the toggle. Configure the Trigger Volume to detect the platform as the actor. This will stop the rotation when it reaches the designated range.
• You can also stop the platform using other methods, such as additional switches or having the player manually press the button again.

Unleash Your Creativity With Game Maker 0.11

By strategically leveraging the new mechanics in Game Maker 0.11, you can add deeper interactivity and immersion to your creations. Whether you're increasing the challenge of a platformer, designing a dynamic social racing experience, or using Combination Codes to enhance gameplay, these tools empower you to create richer, more engaging worlds.

Begin your journey with Game Maker 0.11 today and unlock the power to transform your gaming adventures in The Sandbox.