TODO: Create a plugin for Unreal Engine 5 to replace or integrate with the character movement component

[tristanpoland]

Create Unreal Engine 5 Plugin for Horizon-Optimized Character Movement

Objective

Develop a custom Unreal Engine 5 plugin to replace the default character movement component with a new, improved version built specifically for the Horizon server architecture.

Background

The current character movement component in UE5 may not be optimized for Horizon's distributed server architecture. A custom-built component could improve performance, scalability, and consistency across Horizon's network of servers.

Tasks

1. Research UE5 plugin development and character movement systems
2. Design the architecture for the new movement component
3. Implement basic movement functionality (walking, running, jumping)
4. Add advanced movement features (crouching, sliding, etc.)
5. Implement network synchronization optimized for Horizon's architecture
6. Develop smooth transition handling between Horizon server instances
7. Create a configuration system of exposed variables for easy tweaking of movement parameters
8. Implement a fallback system to default UE5 movement component if needed
9. Write comprehensive documentation for the plugin
10. Create the template project demonstrating the plugin's usage
11. Perform thorough testing, including stress tests with many simultaneous players
12. Optimize performance and reduce network bandwidth usage

Acceptance Criteria

• The plugin successfully replaces UE5's default character movement component
• Movement is smooth and responsive in both single-player and multiplayer scenarios
• The new component demonstrates improved performance and reduced network usage compared to the default
• Seamless transitions between Horizon server instances during movement
• Comprehensive documentation and example projects are provided

Additional Considerations

• Ensure compatibility with existing UE5 projects (If possible)
• Plan for and possibly execute a backport for prior engine versions

[tristanpoland]

This should also address animations while we are at it: Far-Beyond-Dev/Horizon#156