Elastic Collision Vector Math & Ricochet Strategy Guide
Welcome to Orb Clash, the intense physics-based 2-player local multiplayer arena combat simulator. Built with optimized mathematical vectors and responsive browser rendering, Orb Clash combines fast-paced reflex actions with calculating angles. In this guide, we dive deep into the vector mechanics of projectile reflection, body collisions, dynamic power-up spawn locations, and strategic local arena navigation.
Vector Reflection & Bouncing Physics
The defining mechanic of Orb Clash is the bouncing projectile. Shots fired do not merely disappear on wall contact. They ricochet with conservation of momentum. When a projectile with velocity vector V = (vx, vy) collides with an arena boundary having normal vector N = (nx, ny), its reflected velocity vector V_ref is calculated using standard physics reflection equations:
V_ref = V - 2 * (V · N) * N
Where V · N represents the dot product of the velocity and surface normal vectors. In Orb Clash, every bounce increases a projectile's damage rating by **20%** and alters its color intensity. Learning to aim indirect ricochets off the ceiling or floor is crucial, as direct shots are easily shielded, but multi-bounce shots deal catastrophic damage.
Player Collision Mechanics
Tanks and avatars in traditional games pass through each other. In Orb Clash, player orbs are solid physics bodies. When Player 1 and Player 2 collide, the engine executes a fully elastic 2D collision resolution based on mass and momentum, pushing both players apart instantly. You can actively use this momentum defensively or offensively:
- The Ramming Strike: If your opponent is caught near a cluster of their own bouncing projectiles, charge directly into them. The collision momentum will shove their orb into the incoming fire.
- Ricochet Sheltering: Stand directly behind the arena's center barriers. Bouncing projectiles cannot pass through the solid obstacles, providing a secure shelter to recharge your projectiles.
Powerup Interventions
During the best-of-5 matches, holographic powerups materialize in the center rings of the arena. Activating them grants a 6-second tactical advantage:
- Force Field (Red Shield): Generates an electrostatic perimeter around your orb, absorbing up to 3 direct hits or reflecting enemy projectiles back in their opposite trajectory vectors.
- Overdrive Boost: Increases your maximum movement speed vector by 40% and reduces your shot charge-up cooldown by half, letting you rain projectiles on your opponent.
- Triple-Shot Splitter: Modifies your launcher to fire 3 projectiles simultaneously in a 30-degree spreading arc, completely covering the arena lanes in high-yield ricochets.