Technical Interviewer’s Questions

1. How would you optimize the performance of a game that's experiencing framerate issues?

Great Response: "I'd start by profiling the game to identify bottlenecks using tools like Unity Profiler or Unreal Insights. Common issues might be in rendering, physics, or script execution. For rendering, I'd implement LOD systems, occlusion culling, and optimize shader complexity. For physics, I'd use simplified collision meshes and adjust physics timesteps. For script optimization, I'd look for expensive operations in update loops, implement object pooling instead of instantiation/destruction, and optimize data structures for the specific access patterns. The approach would differ depending on platform constraints - mobile optimization requires different trade-offs than console or PC. I'd establish performance budgets for each system and track them through development."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a profiler to find what's causing the slowdown. If it's graphics, I'd reduce polygon counts and texture sizes. For code issues, I'd look for slow functions and try to make them faster. Object pooling is good for performance, so I'd implement that. I might also lower the quality settings if needed to get better framerate."

Poor Response: "I would just lower the graphics quality until the game runs well. Most performance issues come from having too many polygons or textures that are too large. If that doesn't work, I would simplify the game mechanics or remove some objects from the scene. Performance optimization is usually done at the end of development anyway."

2. Explain how you would implement a damage system in a multiplayer game.

Great Response: "For multiplayer, the damage system needs to be authoritative on the server to prevent cheating, but also feel responsive to players. I'd implement client-side prediction where the client shows immediate visual feedback (like hit markers and health reduction) while sending the hit data to the server. The server validates the hit by checking if it was physically possible based on player positions, hitboxes, and timing, then broadcasts the validated damage to all clients. For reconciliation, if the server rejects a hit, I'd smoothly restore the target's health on the client. I'd use a damage model that accounts for armor, hit location, damage types, and resistances, all calculated server-side. This approach balances security and player experience while handling network latency gracefully."

Mediocre Response: "I would make the server handle all damage calculations to prevent cheating. When a player attacks, the client sends a message to the server, which calculates if the hit landed, how much damage to apply, and updates everyone's game state. I'd include basic features like critical hits and different damage types. The system would need to account for network lag by implementing some kind of lag compensation."

Poor Response: "Each client would detect hits locally and send damage messages to other players. The player taking damage would update their health based on received messages. For anti-cheat, I'd add some basic validation checks. Damage would vary based on the weapon type and maybe some random factors for variety. It's important to keep it simple so that there aren't too many network messages being sent."

3. What data structures would you use to implement an inventory system, and why?

Great Response: "I'd use a combination of data structures depending on the inventory requirements. The core would be an array or list for O(1) indexed access, useful for UI grid representation. I'd complement this with a dictionary/hashtable mapping item IDs to counts/metadata for O(1) lookups when checking if the player has specific items. For categories and filtering, I'd implement a composite pattern with tags or an enumeration system. For stackable vs. non-stackable items, I'd use polymorphism or composition to handle different behaviors. Serialization would use a lightweight format like Protocol Buffers or flatbuffers for efficient persistence and network synchronization. For crafting systems, I'd add a directed graph structure to represent recipe dependencies."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a list or array to store the inventory items, with each element containing the item ID, quantity, and properties. For quick lookups, I might add a dictionary that maps item IDs to their position in the list. To organize items by category, I would tag each item with a category enum. This approach gives good performance for most inventory operations and is easy to display in a UI grid."

Poor Response: "I'd just use a simple array or list to hold all the items. Each item would have properties like ID, name, and quantity. When the player wants to use or find an item, the code would loop through the array to find the right item. It's straightforward and easy to implement without overcomplicating things."

4. How would you design a system to handle different character animations and transitions in a game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a hierarchical state machine for animation control, with blend trees for smooth transitions. Each state would represent animations like idle, run, or attack, with parameters driving transitions and blending. For complex characters, I'd use animation layers with masks to animate different body parts independently—for example, allowing upper-body aiming while the legs are walking. I'd implement root motion for physically accurate movement, and use inverse kinematics for foot placement on uneven terrain and hand placement on objects. For optimal performance, I'd use animation compression and LOD systems that simplify animations at a distance. I'd also implement a event system within animations to trigger effects, sounds, or gameplay events at precise moments."

Mediocre Response: "I would use an animation controller with states for each animation and parameters to control transitions between them. For smooth movement, I'd implement blend trees that interpolate between animations based on movement speed. I'd add animation events to trigger things like footstep sounds. For more complex characters, I might use layers to animate different parts separately, like having the upper body aim while the lower body walks."

Poor Response: "I would create an animation manager class that loads and plays the right animations based on what the character is doing. When the player presses forward, it plays the walk animation, and when they press the attack button, it plays the attack animation. I'd use crossfade functions to make the transitions look smoother. Each animation would be assigned to a specific action in the game."

5. Explain how you would implement pathfinding for AI characters in your game.

Great Response: "I'd implement a layered pathfinding approach. For the strategic level, I'd use A* on a navigation mesh that represents the walkable areas, with preprocessing to identify chokepoints and regions. For tactical pathfinding, I'd supplement this with localized steering behaviors like obstacle avoidance and separation. I'd optimize A* with hierarchical pathfinding to handle large worlds efficiently—solving at a coarse level first, then refining only the necessary segments. For dynamic environments, I'd implement incremental path repair rather than full recalculation when obstacles move. I'd also include path smoothing using funnel algorithms or Catmull-Rom splines to create natural-looking movement, and implement path following with predictive algorithms to prevent overshooting or oscillation."

Mediocre Response: "I would use A* pathfinding algorithm with a navigation mesh that defines walkable areas. The navigation mesh would be generated in advance to save runtime performance. For each AI character that needs to move somewhere, I'd calculate the path using A*, then have the character follow the path points. I'd add some basic steering behaviors to avoid other characters and obstacles. For large environments, I might implement some form of path caching to avoid recalculating common paths."

Poor Response: "I would implement A* pathfinding since it's the standard algorithm for games. The game world would be divided into a grid, and the algorithm would find the shortest path from the AI's position to the target. If the path is blocked, the algorithm would recalculate a new path. I'd make sure to limit how often paths are recalculated to avoid performance issues when there are many AI characters."

6. How would you handle saving and loading game state, including player progress?

Great Response: "I'd implement a multi-layered save system with atomic operations to prevent corruption. For structure, I'd use a component-based approach where each game system registers its serializable data. The save format would separate persistent progression data (unlocks, stats) from transient session data (position, health) to support different save frequencies. I'd implement differential saving to minimize storage and save time by only storing changes. For backwards compatibility with updates, I'd use a versioned schema with migration paths. For security, I'd implement checksum validation and optional encryption on sensitive platforms. In multiplayer contexts, I'd separate server-authoritative data from client-side preferences. Finally, I'd implement auto-save with rotating backups at strategic points to prevent progress loss."

Mediocre Response: "I would serialize the game state into JSON or a binary format like Protocol Buffers. The save data would include player stats, inventory, level progress, and world state information. I'd implement auto-save at checkpoints and let players manually save as well. For loading, I'd deserialize the data and restore all the game objects to their saved state. I would make sure to handle version changes in case the save format needs to evolve between game updates."

Poor Response: "I would save all the important game variables like player position, health, and inventory into a file. When loading, the game would read this file and set all the variables back to their saved values. I'd probably use JSON since it's easy to work with. The game would auto-save whenever the player reaches a checkpoint to make sure they don't lose progress if the game crashes."

7. What techniques would you use to implement realistic physics for a vehicle in a racing game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a multi-body vehicle model with separate simulation for chassis, wheels, and suspension. For tire physics, I'd use a simplified Pacejka tire model that accounts for slip angle, load, and surface friction. The suspension would use ray casting with spring-damper systems tuned for realistic compression and rebound. For the powertrain, I'd model engine torque curves, gear ratios, and differential effects. Aerodynamics would include downforce that scales with velocity squared and drafting effects. I'd run the physics at a fixed timestep of around 120Hz with substepping for stability, using a semi-implicit Euler or Verlet integration. For optimization, I'd implement adaptive LOD that simplifies the physics model at a distance or under low performance conditions, while still maintaining visual consistency."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a physics engine like PhysX or Bullet and build on their vehicle components. The vehicle would need proper collision shapes, rigidbody properties, and wheel colliders. I'd tune the suspension settings like spring strength and damping to get a good feel. Tire friction would vary based on surface type. For the engine, I'd implement torque curves that map RPM to power output. I'd also add some effects for drifting and aerodynamics to make the driving more exciting."

Poor Response: "I would use the built-in vehicle physics provided by the game engine, which usually handles most of the work. I'd tweak the weight, friction, and engine power parameters until the car feels right when driving. For collisions, I'd use simple box colliders to keep performance good. If the physics doesn't feel realistic enough, I might add some custom forces to simulate things like drifting or air resistance."

8. How would you implement a system for procedurally generating game levels?

Great Response: "I'd implement a layered generation pipeline. First, I'd create a high-level structure using techniques appropriate for the genre—wave function collapse for puzzle-like spaces, BSP or cellular automata for dungeons, or Perlin/Simplex noise for terrain. Then I'd apply constraints to ensure playability, like connectivity checks, difficulty progression, and resource distribution. The second layer would handle detailed geometry and placement using template-based approaches or grammar systems like L-systems. For the final layer, I'd implement decorators that add environmental storytelling and visual interest. Throughout the pipeline, I'd use pseudo-random number generators with seeds to allow reproducibility while maintaining variety. For optimization, I'd implement chunking with asynchronous generation and streaming to handle large worlds without hitching."

Mediocre Response: "I would start with a random seed and use algorithms like Perlin noise for terrain or BSP trees for indoor areas. For level constraints, I'd implement rules to ensure the level is playable, like making sure there's always a path from start to finish. After generating the base layout, I'd use prefabricated room templates or object clusters that fit together based on connection points. I'd add variation by randomizing parameters like room size, enemy placement, and decoration density while staying within design guidelines."

Poor Response: "I would create a system that randomly places rooms and corridors on a grid. To make sure the level is playable, I'd connect all the rooms with paths. Then I'd randomly distribute enemies, obstacles, and collectibles throughout the level based on some basic rules. If some areas end up too difficult or too empty, I'd add some checks to balance things out. This approach is straightforward and creates different levels each time."

9. How would you implement a particle system for visual effects like explosions or magic spells?

Great Response: "I'd design a data-driven particle system with a component-based architecture. Each effect would be defined by emitters with parameters for spawn rate, lifetime, and emission shape. Individual particles would have components for various behaviors: physics simulation with forces like gravity and turbulence; color gradients over lifetime; size curves; rotation; and collision response. For optimization, I'd implement GPU instancing for rendering thousands of particles efficiently, with automatic LOD that reduces particle count at a distance. I'd use a pool-based memory system to avoid allocation overhead. For enhanced visual quality, I'd add sub-emitters triggered by particle events, mesh particles for complex shapes, and particle lights for dynamic illumination. The system would support timeline-based sequencing to choreograph complex multi-stage effects."

Mediocre Response: "I would create a particle emitter class that spawns and manages individual particles. Each particle would have properties like position, velocity, color, size, and lifetime. The system would update these properties every frame based on physics and predefined curves. For rendering, I'd use billboard quads with textures and blending modes appropriate for the effect. To optimize performance, I'd implement object pooling to reuse particle objects and set limits on how many particles can exist at once. More complex effects would combine multiple emitters with different settings."

Poor Response: "I would create a simple particle system where particles spawn from a point with random velocities. Each particle would have a texture, color, and lifetime. Every frame, the particles would move based on their velocity and slowly fade out as they reach the end of their lifetime. For effects like explosions, I'd make particles move outward from the center and maybe add a glow effect. I'd make sure to limit the number of particles to avoid performance issues."

10. Explain how you would implement a quest or mission system in an open-world game.

Great Response: "I'd implement a modular quest system using a combined state machine and event-driven architecture. Quests would be defined as directed graphs with nodes representing objectives and conditions controlling transitions. Each quest would be composed of reusable objective types—elimination, collection, escort, etc.—that can be combined and parameterized. For tracking, I'd use an observer pattern where game events trigger objective progress updates. To handle the open-world nature, I'd implement progressive loading of quest state, dynamically activating only relevant quests based on player location and previous choices. For narrative branching, I'd use a condition system that evaluates player choices, world state, and timing to determine available quests and outcomes. I'd also implement a data-driven dialogue system integrated with the quest state to ensure narrative consistency."

Mediocre Response: "I would create a quest manager that tracks active and completed quests. Each quest would have a series of objectives that the player needs to complete. When game events happen, the quest manager would check if they're relevant to any active quests and update their progress. For quest rewards, I'd implement a system to grant items, experience, or unlock new content. The quest system would need to handle dependencies, where some quests are only available after completing others or reaching certain game states. For tracking, I'd provide a quest log UI that shows current objectives and progress."

Poor Response: "I would create a list of quests, each with objectives like 'defeat enemies' or 'collect items'. When the player interacts with an NPC, they would get assigned quests that get added to their quest log. As the player completes objectives, the quest progress would update. When all objectives are done, the player gets a reward. I'd make sure the quest markers show up on the map so players can easily find where to go next."

11. How would you implement a system for character progression and skill trees?

Great Response: "I'd design a flexible attribute system as the foundation, with derived stats calculated from base attributes. For skill trees, I'd implement a directed acyclic graph structure where nodes represent skills and edges represent prerequisites. This allows for complex branching paths while preventing circular dependencies. Skills would be implemented using a component pattern, where unlocking a skill attaches behavior components to the character. For progression, I'd use a curve-based leveling system with configurable experience requirements. To support different character builds, I'd implement specialization paths with diminishing returns to encourage diversity. For balance and future-proofing, I'd create a simulation system to batch-test different progression paths against game challenges. The entire system would be data-driven, allowing designers to modify skill trees and progression curves without code changes."

Mediocre Response: "I would implement a stat system where characters have base attributes like strength and intelligence. Players would earn experience points that can be spent on a skill tree. The skill tree would be structured as nodes connected by paths, with some skills requiring prerequisites. Each skill would provide passive bonuses or unlock new abilities. I'd store the player's current level and unlocked skills in their save data. For balance, I'd create formulas that scale difficulty and rewards based on the player's progression level."

Poor Response: "I would create a simple leveling system where players gain experience points from defeating enemies and completing quests. When they level up, they get skill points to spend on new abilities. The skill tree would be divided into different categories like combat, magic, and stealth. Each skill would improve the character's stats or give them new abilities. Higher-level skills would require more points or previous skills to unlock."

12. How would you handle collision detection and response in a physics-based game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a multi-phase collision system for efficiency. The broad phase would use spatial partitioning like a dynamic AABB tree or spatial hashing to quickly identify potential collision pairs. The narrow phase would use more precise algorithms based on geometry type—GJK/EPA for convex shapes, heightfields for terrain, and compound colliders for complex objects. For continuous collision detection with fast-moving objects, I'd implement swept tests and tunneling prevention. The response phase would use an impulse-based solver with iterative constraint resolution for stability. For optimization, I'd implement collision filtering with layers and masks, vary physics detail based on distance and importance, and use simplified collision proxies separate from visual meshes. For gameplay, I'd add collision callbacks to trigger game events and allow for material-based response variation."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a combination of broad and narrow phase collision detection. For the broad phase, I'd implement spatial partitioning like quadtrees to quickly find potential collisions. For the narrow phase, I'd use more precise algorithms depending on the shape types involved. For collision response, I'd calculate impulses based on mass and velocity to make objects bounce realistically. I'd also implement collision layers so that certain objects don't collide with each other when it makes sense for gameplay."

Poor Response: "I would use the built-in collision system in the game engine, which usually handles most of the work. For custom cases, I'd use simple bounding boxes or spheres for most objects since they're efficient. When a collision is detected, I'd apply forces to make objects bounce off each other based on their mass and speed. I'd make sure to optimize by disabling collision detection for objects that are far away from the player."

13. What approaches would you take to implement AI for different types of NPCs in a game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a layered AI architecture with multiple systems working at different timescales. At the strategic level, I'd use behavior trees or GOAP (Goal-Oriented Action Planning) for complex decision-making and long-term goals. The tactical layer would use utility systems to select appropriate actions based on weighted considerations of the current context. For moment-to-moment reactions, I'd implement a stimulus-response system using finite state machines. To create believable characters, I'd add a needs-based motivation system that drives NPCs to fulfill requirements like hunger or safety. For group coordination, I'd implement influence maps and leader-follower dynamics. To optimize performance, I'd use LOD for AI complexity based on distance and visibility. Finally, I'd make the system data-driven with blackboards for memory and perception filters to create NPCs with different personality traits and capabilities."

Mediocre Response: "I would implement different AI systems based on the NPC type. For enemies, I'd use behavior trees or state machines that handle combat tactics, patrolling, and searching when they detect the player. For friendly NPCs, I'd create daily schedules and interaction systems. I'd give NPCs perception systems using raycasts or trigger volumes to detect the player and other entities. To make the AI seem smarter, I'd implement some group behaviors where NPCs can communicate and coordinate their actions. Different difficulty levels would adjust parameters like reaction time and accuracy."

Poor Response: "I would create state machines for each NPC type, with states like idle, patrol, chase, and attack. When certain conditions are met, like seeing the player, the NPC would transition to the appropriate state. For pathfinding, I'd use the built-in navigation system. Different enemy types would have different stats and attack patterns to create variety. For non-combat NPCs, I'd just make them follow simple paths or stand in place with some idle animations."

14. How would you implement a networking system for a real-time multiplayer game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a client-server architecture with authoritative server for security. For responsiveness, I'd use client-side prediction where clients immediately apply inputs locally while sending them to the server. The server would validate actions, update the authoritative state, and send corrections back. I'd implement entity interpolation for smooth movement and delta compression for bandwidth efficiency, only sending changes rather than full states. For latency handling, I'd use techniques like lag compensation for hit detection and adaptive timesteps based on connection quality. To scale, I'd implement interest management using spatial partitioning, only sending updates relevant to each client's area of interest. For reliability, I'd use a hybrid UDP/TCP approach—UDP for position updates with custom reliability layers for critical data. I'd also implement matchmaking based on skill and connection quality, with region-based server selection to minimize latency."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a client-server model where the server is authoritative to prevent cheating. Clients would send their inputs to the server, which would process them and update the game state for all players. To handle latency, I'd implement client-side prediction where players see their actions immediately while waiting for server confirmation. For bandwidth optimization, I'd prioritize data based on importance and proximity, and use delta compression to only send changes. I'd also implement basic lag compensation for hit detection and some form of interpolation for smooth movement."

Poor Response: "I would use the networking features provided by the game engine, which usually handle the connection between players. The game would send position updates and player actions over the network. To save bandwidth, I'd make sure to only send important information and limit how often updates are sent. For dealing with lag, I'd add some smoothing to player movement and maybe show some visual indication when the connection is poor."

15. How would you design and implement a crafting system for a game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a modular crafting system with a recipe graph database at its core. Recipes would be defined as directed graphs with ingredients as inputs and crafted items as outputs. For flexibility, I'd support multiple recipe types: exact matching, category-based, and attribute-based for systems where ingredient properties combine to determine results. The crafting logic would be separated from the UI to support multiple crafting methods (workbenches, field crafting, automated crafting). For discovery, I'd implement multiple systems: found recipes, experimentation with recipe hints, and analytics to suggest new combinations. To enhance gameplay, I'd add crafting minigames for skill-based quality variation, time-based processes for resource management, and byproducts or failures for economic balance. The entire system would be data-driven for easy content creation and balancing, with support for recipe invalidation or evolution as the player progresses."

Mediocre Response: "I would create a recipe database where each recipe defines the required ingredients and the resulting item. The crafting system would check if the player has the necessary ingredients and the appropriate crafting station if required. When crafting, the ingredients would be removed from the inventory and the crafted item added. To make it more interesting, I'd implement recipe discovery through exploration and perhaps a skill system that affects crafting success rates or quality. The UI would allow players to see available recipes based on their current inventory and filter by categories."

Poor Response: "I would create a simple system where players collect resources and combine them according to recipes. Each recipe would list the required materials and the output item. When the player has the right materials, they can craft the item from a crafting menu. I'd organize recipes by categories like weapons, armor, and consumables to make it easier to navigate. As the player progresses, they would unlock more recipes by finding them in the game world."

16. How would you implement a dialogue system for NPCs with branching conversations?

Great Response: "I'd implement a node-based dialogue system using a directed graph structure. Each node would represent a dialogue line with metadata for speaker, emotion, and camera framing. Edges between nodes would have conditions based on player choices, quest state, character relationships, and previous dialogue. For implementation, I'd use a scriptable object architecture or data-driven approach with dialogue data stored in a format like JSON for easy localization. To support non-linear conversations, I'd implement a context memory system that tracks conversation history and allows rejoining dialogues naturally. For dynamic content, I'd use a template system with variable substitution based on game state. The dialogue controller would integrate with animation, lip-sync, and camera systems via events. For quality of life, I'd build editor tools for writers to create and visualize conversation flows, with validation to catch orphaned nodes or loops."

Mediocre Response: "I would create a dialogue tree structure where each node contains the NPC's line and a list of possible player responses. Each response would lead to another node in the tree. I'd implement conditions on dialogue options and branches based on player stats, quest progress, or previous choices. The dialogue data would be stored in scriptable objects or external files to separate it from code. For presentation, I'd create a UI system that displays the current dialogue line and response options. I'd also add support for basic animations and expression changes during conversations."

Poor Response: "I would create a simple dialogue manager that loads conversation data from text files. Each NPC would have their lines and player response options. When talking to an NPC, the system would display their dialogue and let the player choose from the available responses. If certain responses should only appear under specific conditions, I'd add basic checks for quest status or player choices. The system would be straightforward to implement and easy to add new dialogues to."

17. Explain how you would implement a day/night cycle and weather system in an open-world game.

Great Response: "I'd implement a time system with configurable day length and a non-linear time curve to emphasize gameplay-relevant periods. For lighting, I'd use dynamic global illumination with precomputed light probes for interiors, blended based on time of day. The sky system would use physically-based scattering for realistic sunrise/sunset effects, with moon phases and stars at night. For weather, I'd implement a procedural system using cellular automata or fluid simulation to create realistic weather fronts and regional variation. Each weather state would affect multiple systems: shader parameters for visual effects, audio mixing for ambient sounds, particle systems for precipitation, and gameplay effects like reduced visibility or surface friction. To avoid repetition, I'd create transition matrices with weighted probabilities influenced by season, location, and story progress. All systems would be exposed through an API so that gameplay systems and AI can react appropriately to environmental changes."

Mediocre Response: "I would implement a time system that progresses based on game time, with configurable day length. For the visuals, I'd use a dynamic lighting system that changes the directional light angle, color, and intensity based on time of day. The skybox would interpolate between different textures or use a procedural sky system. For weather, I'd create a system that transitions between different states like clear, cloudy, rainy, and stormy based on probability and duration parameters. Each weather state would activate appropriate effects like particle systems for rain or snow, sound effects, and post-processing for fog. I'd also implement some basic gameplay effects like reduced visibility or slippery surfaces during certain weather conditions."

Poor Response: "I would create a simple time variable that increments with real game time and cycles between day and night. Based on this value, I'd change the lighting color and intensity, and swap between day and night skyboxes. For weather, I'd randomly trigger different weather states with appropriate particle effects like rain or snow. Each weather type would have a set duration before returning to the default clear state. I might add some basic fog during rainy weather to create atmosphere."

18. How would you implement a system for destructible environments in a game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a multi-resolution destruction system based on the object type and player distance. For large structures, I'd use a component-based approach with predefined fracture points and structural integrity simulation. Each component would track damage and trigger appropriate destruction events when thresholds are reached. For smaller objects, I'd use procedural fracturing with Voronoi diagrams to create realistic break patterns, with pre-computed convex decomposition for efficient collision. To handle performance, I'd implement debris instancing, LOD for physics simulation, and debris cleanup based on importance. For gameplay integration, I'd implement a material system where different materials react distinctively to damage types, propagate damage to connected structures, and generate appropriate particles and sounds. The destruction would be synchronized in multiplayer using deterministic simulation with key event syncing rather than transmitting all debris."

Mediocre Response: "I would implement a health system for destructible objects, where damage reduces the object's integrity until it breaks. For the visual representation, I'd use a combination of techniques: swapping the intact model with pre-fractured pieces, using shader effects to show damage progression, and spawning particle effects during destruction. For physics, I'd use the engine's rigid body system to make debris pieces behave realistically. To optimize performance, I'd limit the number of simultaneous destructions and clean up smaller debris after a time. I'd also implement different destruction patterns based on the damage type, like explosions creating different fracture patterns than direct impacts."

Poor Response: "I would create alternate versions of objects in their destroyed states. When an object takes enough damage, I'd replace it with the destroyed version and maybe spawn some debris particles. For simple objects, I might just use a disappearing animation or effect. To avoid performance issues, I'd limit how many objects can be destroyed at once and make sure that destruction effects don't last too long. I'd probably use the physics engine to handle the destroyed pieces, with some basic collision detection."

19. What techniques would you use to implement realistic water simulation in a game?

Great Response: "I'd implement a layered approach to water simulation. For large bodies of water, I'd use a combination of techniques: FFT-based wave simulation for distant water, Gerstner waves for mid-distance detail, and a dynamic ripple system using height fields for local interactions. For rendering, I'd implement screen-space reflections combined with cube maps for distant reflections, depth-based absorption for realistic color, and caustics using texture projection. For water-object interaction, I'd use buoyancy simulation based on submerged volume calculation, with drag forces affected by object shape. Water surface interactions would use particle systems for splashes and ripples, with CPU or GPU-based fluid simulation for flowing water in smaller areas. For optimization, I'd implement LOD that reduces simulation complexity with distance and view-dependent tessellation for surface detail. The entire system would adapt to different water types—ocean, rivers, lakes—with appropriate parameter sets."

Mediocre Response: "I would use a combination of techniques for water simulation. For the surface, I'd implement a vertex displacement shader using sine waves or Gerstner waves to create movement. For reflections, I'd use a combination of cubemaps and screen-space reflections. Refraction would be handled with distortion of objects behind the water based on depth. For interactions, I'd implement simple buoyancy physics where objects float based on their density, and create splash particle effects when objects enter or exit the water. For performance, I'd use different detail levels based on distance from the camera."

Poor Response: "I would use animated textures and normal maps to make the water surface look like it's moving. For reflections, I'd use a simple cubemap or maybe just a blue color with some shine. When objects interact with water, I'd play splash effects and maybe slow down their movement. For larger bodies of water, I might add some gentle up and down movement to the vertices to simulate waves. The approach would be simple but effective enough for most game scenarios."