STUDIO SECRETS FOR STUNNING GAME ART TECHNIQUES
BUILD ENVIRONMENTAL CONCEPTS
CHARACTERS PLAY A BIG PART IN THE GAME, BUT CREATING THE PERFECT
ENVIRONMENT SETS THE TONE AND PACE OF THE ACTION01
REFERENCE MATERIAL IS CRUCIAL
When we are presented with a problem to solve, real world
references or field photography is how we make sure we are making plausibly
designed spaces. Architecture, terrain, materials, lighting and palette options
are collected to make consistent and clear choices in our designs. At the
highest level we always want to create captivating contrast in how the spaces
look to get [the] sensation of splendour and awe.02
DESIGN BEFORE YOU PAINT
Making a high impact composition will determine how you want the
viewer and player to feel when they enter a space within the game. Crowded
elements with sharp angles and aggressive silhouettes, as opposed to sprawling
open landscapes with dominant landmarks and a sense of isolation, are choices
that live and die by the composition. Additionally, the scale of both the world and
characters are always important and providing an idea of the world through
relatable size relationships help define the message in the image. A poor design
will always speak louder than a beautiful painting.04
KEEP YOUR PHOTOSHOP STRUCTURE TIDY
Keeping layers organised in the way that works for each
individual artist keeps iteration and feedback loops quick and
effective. Think of every piece as a living file that you will have to
come back to and adjust to hone in its final intent. Even just a
two-minute sketch can quickly become a large-scale piece of key
art, so it’s good practice to make changes quick and effective.03
LIGHTING IS YOUR BEST FRIEND
Once a layout is blocked in, a quick idea of lighting will begin to shape
the mood of the shot. Because lighting affects most surfaces and atmosphere, it
will quickly form the reaction you desire from the viewer. Staying in black and
white values up to this point is a great way to get everything balanced before
moving into colour.05
BE A STORYTELLER
Every stroke we put down on canvas is
aimed at sharing a story with the viewer or player.
When a piece is completed, it is easy to tell when an
artist is simply painting, or designing. Every rock
shape, tree choice, puddle, metallic reflection,
character pose, atmospheric placement, clothingBeing influenced by other artists is a key
contributor in maintaining inspiration, however be
careful not to fall into the trappings of imitating
another artist’s work without finding your own
voice. No amount of downloaded brushes can
replace knowing how to use them effectively.BREN ADAMS’ ADVICE
FOR SUCCESSstitch, surface material, blur filter, or lighting choice
should be the result of an artist helping support this
story. Without being meticulous about the things in
your scene, the message becomes unclear and
impact is lost. Be determined about having a story
in everything you design and paint.by concept artist Mark Castanon
by concept artist Brenoch Adams
by concept artist Brenoch Adams
by concept artist Michael Baytionby concept artist Mark Castanonby concept artist Mark Castanonby concept artist Michael Baytion