Introduction to Environment Design in Games
Introduction to Environment Design in Games
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Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Articulate the role of Environment Design in Games
Articulate the role of Environment Design in Games
Identify and analyse different types of Game Environments
Identify and analyse different types of Game Environments
Create a basic sketch of a Game Environment Layout
Create a basic sketch of a Game Environment Layout
Importance of Environment Design in Games
Importance of Environment Design in Games
Immersion: Creates a believable world that enhances player engagement.
Narrative Support: Reinforces storytelling by providing context and atmosphere.
Gameplay Mechanics: Influences player interactions and challenges.
Aesthetic Appeal: Contributes to the visual identity and appeal of the game.
Examples of Environment Design in Games
Examples of Environment Design in Games
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
- Expansive open-world environments that encourage exploration.
The Last of Us
The Last of Us
- Post-apocalyptic settings that enhance the emotional narrative.
Types of Game Environments
Types of Game Environments
Natural Environments
Natural Environments
- Forests, mountains, deserts.
- Example: Red Dead Redemption 2 – Diverse natural landscapes.
Urban Environments
Urban Environments
- Cities, towns, ruins.
- Example: Assassin's Creed II – Historical urban settings.
Fantasy/Sci-Fi Environments
Fantasy/Sci-Fi Environments
- Imaginary worlds with unique rules.
- Example: Mass Effect – Futuristic space environments.
Impact of Environment on Gameplay
Impact of Environment on Gameplay
- Navigation: Guides player movement and exploration.
- Challenge: Provides obstacles and opportunities for problem-solving.
- Mood Setting: Establishes the emotional tone of the game.
- Storytelling: Conveys narrative elements through environmental cues.
How does this work in the game industry?
How does this work in the game industry?
In the game industry, the process is typically:
In the game industry, the process is typically:
Receiving the Brief > Research > Sketching (Thumbnails) > Development of Ideas > Final Designs
Receiving the Brief > Research > Sketching (Thumbnails) > Development of Ideas > Final Designs
This would then proceed to be turned into a full 3D game
This would then proceed to be turned into a full 3D game
Introduction to Sketching an Environment
Introduction to Sketching an Environment
Purpose: Visualise ideas and plan layouts.
Purpose: Visualise ideas and plan layouts.
Benefits:
Benefits:
- Quickly iterate on concepts.
- Communicate ideas effectively.
- Identify potential design issues early.
Getting the basics down!
Getting the basics down!
The best start to sketching an environment is perspective! Learning to draw in perspective is a valuable skill, and helps you design interesting levels and environments
Perspective is the representation of three-dimensional objects or spaces on a two-dimensional surface, creating a realistic sense of depth and distance.
Very simply: Things look bigger if they are close to you, and smaller if they are further away. This is perspective!
One Point Perspective
One Point Perspective
Where all parallel lines converge at one vanishing point on the horizon.
Have a go at trying to draw the below prompt on the grid provided / draw your own!
- Imagine drawing a road or a river extending into the distance. Place the vanishing point directly on the horizon line, and draw the road’s edges along the guidelines from this point.
Add some detailing along the side of the road / river, and you'll have an environment!
Two Point Perspective
Two Point Perspective
Where there are two vanishing points placed on the horizon line, usually at the far left and far right of an image. Objects are then drawn with their parallel lines converging on one of the two points.
This perspective is great for environment layouts!
Task: Sketching a Game Layout
Task: Sketching a Game Layout
Guidelines:
Guidelines:
- Choose a theme (e.g., forest clearing, desert oasis).
- Apply basic shapes to outline major elements
- Use perspective to create depth
- Add details to enhance the environment
Research!
Research!
Once you've decided the theme for your environment, you'll need to get reference images
Once you've decided the theme for your environment, you'll need to get reference images
Start searching for real-life reference imagery that inspires you! This will make the work you produce a lot better. Try and have at least five reference images that you like!
Start searching for real-life reference imagery that inspires you! This will make the work you produce a lot better. Try and have at least five reference images that you like!
Once you have these reference images, you can start sketching your environment!
Once you have these reference images, you can start sketching your environment!
- Start with Simple Shapes: Use circles, squares, and triangles to outline major elements.
- Establish Perspective: Apply one-point or two-point perspective to create depth.
- Add Details Gradually: Build complexity by refining shapes and adding textures.
- Use Light and Shadow: Indicate light sources to enhance dimensionality.
Common Challenges with Environment Sketches
Common Challenges with Environment Sketches
- Maintaining Proportions: Ensure elements are correctly sized relative to each other
- Creating Depth: Use overlapping shapes and perspective lines effectively
- Adding Realistic Details: Observe real-world environments for reference
Tips for sketching!
Tips for sketching!
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice improves skill.
- Study Real Environments: Observe and sketch from life.
- Seek Feedback: Share work with peers for constructive criticism.
- Experiment with Styles: Try different artistic styles to find your preference.
Recap and Key Takeaways
Recap and Key Takeaways
- Environment design is crucial for immersive gameplay
- Different types of environments serve various narrative and gameplay functions
- Basic sketching skills are essential for visualising and planning game environments
For next time:
For next time:
Please hand the environments that you've designed in with your name
Bring your phone for the next session, as you'll need it for Unreal Engine!
References
References
Bethesda Game Studios (2011) The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. [Video Game]. Bethesda Softworks.
Naughty Dog (2013) The Last of Us. [Video Game]. Sony Computer Entertainment.
Team Cherry (2017) Hollow Knight. [Video Game]. Team Cherry.
Rockstar Games (2018) Red Dead Redemption 2. [Video Game]. Rockstar Games.
Ubisoft Montreal (2009) Assassin's Creed II. [Video Game]. Ubisoft.
BioWare (2007-2012) Mass Effect Series. [Video Game]. Electronic Arts
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