Shade
2D CASUAL INTERACTIVE
NOVEL GAME WITH MATCH-3 ELEMENTS
Shade
Shade is a game in the classic format of an interactive novel, where players have to make decisions that will affect further events. In addition to the choice-based gameplay, the game offers an exciting match-3 component.
Production Workflow
We had a massive task to create all the 2D visuals for the game, so we decided to work according to the time-tested pipeline.
Goal
Our goal was to create all 2D game art: characters, environments, illustrations, backgrounds, splash screens, and covers in accordance with the requirements for style.
Challenge
Our challenge was to create realistic 2D art which at the same time will be quite lightweight and appealing for casual players playing on mobile devices.
Stage 1. Sketching
1
All art was created from scratch. Initially, we had a clear technical task regarding the desired type of art, according to which we prepared black-and-white concepts. They represented several variations of characters or compositions. There were 5 types of concepts in total: characters, their outfits and hairstyles, backgrounds, illustrations, and splash screens with covers. Then the client approved the concepts, and we could proceed to the coloring stage.
Stage 2. Color drafting
2
This stage took place only at the beginning of the partnership. After a couple of months of work, the client was convinced that we had perfectly studied their expectations, preferences, and style, and began to give more freedom of action. We could create new concepts, change the composition, and so on. The approval stage of the color drafting was left to our discretion, there was no need for any revisions since the client was satisfied with our work.
Stage 3. Rendering
3
We had about 10 tasks in parallel, so the delivery of different types of art was carried out evenly. Since after the approval of the concept, we immediately took on the coloring and preparation of the render, without wasting time on revisions, the work went quickly and smoothly. After the rendering was completed, we prepared the file in the required format and provided the final version to the client.
Team structure
2D character artists
Responsible for creating characters and their outfits and hairstyles in accordance with the required style.
2D environment artists
Engaged in the creation of game backgrounds, splash screens, and covers with all the necessary elements and props.
Project manager
Provides a high level of planning, organization, and execution of the project for timely delivery.
