Timed Objective Devices

The Timed Objective device is for game modes where players can start or stop timers to advance gameplay objectives, such as Attack/Defend Bomb objectives.

Finding and Placing the Device

Click image to enlarge.

1. From Create mode, press the Tab key to open the Creative inventory window.
2. Click the Devices tab and scroll to select the device. You can also use the Search box or the Categories panel on the left to find your device.
3. Click PLACE NOW to place immediately, or put the device in the **QUICK BAR** to place later.
4. Press Esc to return to your island in Create mode. Use your phone to position the device, then left-click to place it. Press Esc to detach the device from your phone.
5. Point at the device with your phone. If the Customize popup doesn't open immediately, move closer until it does, then press E to open the Customize panel.

If you're using multiple copies of a device on an island, it can be helpful to rename them. You can choose names that relate to each device’s purpose, so it’s easier to remember what each one does.

Device Options

When the device is placed, any player can enable or disable it. It is in its holographic state until initially started, then will appear and count down. Any team can pause the timer and interact with it. The timer will appear on the HUD.

Default values are bold.

Basic Options

All Options (Additional)

Channels

When one device needs to "talk" to another device, it does so by transmitting a signal on a specific channel. The receiving device needs to be set up to receive the signal on the same channel.

A channel is identified by a number, and channel numbers are customized for a device under the option that uses the channel. Most devices will also pass the identity of the player who triggered the device with the signal.

This device has receivers that perform a variety of functions when receiving a signal over a channel. Also, this device can transmit signals when certain conditions are met.

Receivers

Receivers listen for a channel and perform an action when they hear any device (including themselves) send a signal on that channel.

Transmitters

Transmitters send a signal on the selected channel when triggered.

Design Examples

Here are some examples of how you can use the Timed Objective device.

• Door Open
• Switch Delay

Door Open

One of the most useful functions of the Timed Objective is using it to send signals after a preset period of time.

Devices used:

• 1 x Timed Objective
• 2 x Prop Mover

1. Create a simple enclosed arena. Use two props for the doors in a closed position.

2. Attach a Prop Mover device to each of the movable doors. Make sure to orient the movement arrow so each door opens in the appropriate direction. Customize them both to the following settings:

   

1. Place a Timed Objective device anywhere on the island. Customize it to the following settings:

   

1. Set the direct event bindings of the Timed Objective to the following:

   

Here’s an overview of how devices communicate in this Design Example:

You now have the basic functionality for sending delayed signals from the Timed Objective device.

There are countless ways to take advantage of the Timed Objective device to delay signals anywhere from seconds to minutes. From causing events to take place at a predetermined time after the start of the game to starting the countdown from a separate signal, it’s an essential part of the Creative toolset that's easy to use and offers a lot of flexibility.

Use direct event binding to start your countdowns on a signal from another device, and make sure Completion Behavior is set to Reset or Restart if you want it to be usable more than once.

Switch Delay

Another form of gameplay you can explore is creating switches that will start an interruptible countdown after a brief interaction, allowing players to try to control a point long enough to end a round in their favor.

Devices used:

• 1 x Timed Objective
• 1 x Switch
• 1 x End Game Device

1. Create a small arena with a place for a Switch device where it can be contested.

2. Place a Switch and customize it to the following settings:

   

1. Place a Timed Objective device anywhere on the map and customize it to the following settings:

   

1. Place an End Game Device anywhere on the island. Customize it to the following settings:

   

1. Set the direct event bindings of the Switch to the following:

   

1. Set the direct event bindings of the Timed Objective to the following:

   

Here’s an overview of how devices communicate in this Design Example:

You now have the basic functionality to create an interruptible countdown with a Timed Objective device.

It is very common to use the Start function and On Completed Send Event To event when connecting a Timed Objective to other devices. The method shown here can be an alternative to point-building domination-style games, where a point only needs to be held for 15 seconds without the player who's interacting getting eliminated.

There could be multiple places unlocked before the End Game Device is triggered, with high-speed gameplay based around more competition on the Switch than other devices.

Gameplay Examples Using Timed Objective

• Loadout Lobby
• Random Sentry Fight
• Search and Destroy Bomb