For this project I was elected to be the Environment Artist, but what exactly does that mean? How does it differ from being a World Designer?
Well, opinions vary. Even top studios have interchangeable roles with interchangeable titles, which makes pinning down precise specifications for this role a bit confusing. The good news is – that means I get to decide for myself what being the Environment Artist means! Between myself and Jize, we were able to assign ourselves responsibilities where the tasks fit our overall skills.
- 3D Asset Design
- Following the art bible and concept art to build 3D assets
- Texture mapping
- Scene building
- Implementing object physics
- Layout
- Design the map to ensure fair and balanced gameplay
- Environmental Storytelling
- Work with the World Designer to reflect the narrative in the environment’s props and scenes
- Gameplay Harmony
- Working with the programmer to ensure that the environment supports the mechanics
(… A slightly terrifying undertaking, seeing it all laid out.)
Jize on the other hand, as the World Designer, will be tasked with the ludo-narrative focus. He will work on story beats, character, dialogue, and how to communicate specific tasks to the player.
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