On the surface, this question appears straightforward - you simply sketch it using software or physical painting tools - but this is far from the case. Game art is a sophisticated subject in which utilitarian and creative techniques merge to create magnificent visual masterpieces.
Modern 3D and 2D game art outsourcing is indistinguishable from conventional fine art. With one condition, of course: only if the end result is visually appealing and unique. Nobody likes blah clones of existing works. This is why producing outstanding visual content necessitates a solid strategy and tried-and-true procedures. Today's blog post will discuss how 2D game art is created in video games, as well as some of the process's quirks.
The Point Where Everything Starts And How To Make Art For Unity
First and foremost, we must emphasize that the process of creating 2D game art is multistaged and multilayered. It entails a great deal of planning, scheming, debating, and theorizing. You must decide on the game's style before turning to your digital drawing board and assigning early concept jobs. Will it be lighthearted and cartoonish, or realistic and down-to-earth? Will the graphics be pixel art, flat art, or monochromatic? You can also include some amazing visual elements to make the video game art look like it is from a comic book or anime.
When answering the questions above, keep three crucial aspects in mind:
● Perception of the audience;
● Lore of the game;
● The project's category;
Each art style in 2D games has a unique audience with specific demands and expectations. So, before beginning a game project, the first question you should ask yourself is, "What sort of audience am I aiming for? What do they expect from my game? How to make art for unity?" The answer to this question resides within the gameplay.
The requirement for art leadership It is the most important person in the design department after the art director. Art leaders oversee and adjust all creative processes, keep the artists updated, focused, and motivated. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that they serve as a gluing component or skeleton on projects. On top of that, art leaders also hold direct contact with the client to make sure that everything goes as planned.
An experienced art lead knows how to talk with game designers, approach art directors, communicate with producers and persuade clients to choose the most effective solution in any given circumstances.
What Exactly Do 2D Artists Do?
Many elements have a significant impact on the game's market success. Some are beyond your direct control, while others are manageable from the start for your gaming graphic goals. If a game looks attractive and pleasing to the eye, it is more likely to be purchased and played. And this is where 2D game art comes into play. Unique character designs, original props, and mind-blowing settings are all created by the creative brains of 2D game artists to attract the players' attention.
The primary distinction between 2D artists and conventional artists is their focus - video games. 2D game artists imagine how certain things would seem in a specific location and style, create sketches that correspond to the intended game concept, and convert them into 2D and 3D computer graphics. There are numerous specializations for 2D artists, so let's go over some of the more relevant ones.
How To Make 2D Art For Games
Before developing a hero, a location, or any specific thing in-game, consider how it will appear in general. Although concept artists provide basic visuals for props, 2D character design, worlds, vehicles, clothing, and other objects, they do not participate in the design's finalization. Nonetheless, their vision contributes to the overall appearance of the game.
There is no time for intricate drawings with plenty of details in concept art; it is all about speed and simplicity. Every concept artist works hard to portray the given idea in as little time as feasible. It is one thing to imagine shapes and designs in your head after reading a few lines of text, but it is quite another to bring those shapes to life.
2D Environment Artist
It is not easy to create complicated, gorgeous, and varied settings or levels. That is why settings and landscapes are frequently worked on by multiple teams. It is critical to distinguish between level designer and 2D environment artist. The latter construct visually beautiful settings, world objects, modify lighting, and verify that the game's plot and mythology correspond to the world in which the action takes place.
Each 2D setting should feel distinct. To do this, when building levels, you must consider not only the composition of objects but also creative expression. Pay attention to the accents, intricacies, and history of the world.
Conclusion
As you can see, designing 2D game art backgrounds is a precise task that requires specialists to work under the direction of experienced managers. Extensive knowledge of modern art styles and game design creates the groundwork for the future project. Today, 2D artists create in-game visuals and assets as well as promotional pieces; thus, their importance cannot be overstated.
We recognize that creating your own art department can be difficult and expensive, especially if you need a large staff for a project. However, due to the complexity of the development process, good results can only be obtained with a reputable partner who specializes in 2D game art.