Generic Bow Template

Inspiration

A bow in video games is often considered the ultimate weapon. It requires skill, precision, and everyone knows it's far superior compared to guns! Having implemented bow systems on other platforms, I know it can be tedious to set up. However, especially in VR, the feeling is amazing compared to firearms.

What it does

This template simulates a working bow in VR and on other platforms. It provides a structured hierarchy that makes it easy to customize appearances, VFX, and SFX. The scripts are well organized to allow easy customization and future improvements as the Horizon API evolves.

How we built it

I started by asking the beta AI for help since it was my first time using Horizon. That gave me a good start with TypeScript and the basics of the editor. Once I was comfortable, I basically restarted from scratch to make everything clean and structured. I wanted to rely as much as possible on the built-in gizmos and available API, because that’s the best way to make a template that works smoothly for everyone and leverages ongoing improvements. If someone needs something custom, I can’t anticipate every need—but they’ll know how the standard API and gizmos work, so they can extend it themselves.

Challenges we ran into

Not having access to projectile speed for simulating arrows was tricky. I ended up using the gravity field and multiple projectile launchers, cycling through them with each shot so the gravity of the next arrow wouldn’t affect previous arrows still in the air. Another challenge was understanding where this editor stands. At first, it feels aimed at non-coders. But if you want to create a game, world, or tools, you must code—and you need to grasp concepts like client/server and general game logic. It makes sense that as more people create content, the need for code will decrease. But in the meantime, giving coders more access would be valuable. Often I felt limited by the tools, working around them rather than being empowered by them. One exception to this is I think Horizon does a great job of simplifying the networking workflow.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Learning TypeScript Learning Horizon Building the template exactly as I envisioned, so I hope others can use it and create amazing things with it!

What's next for Generic Bow Template

Improvements for mobile and desktop platforms When the API allows it: use projectile speed instead of gravity, and add player animations for non-VR platforms Add premade bow/arrow skins to enhance the preview experience

Built With

• horizon