Storytelling in f2p HOPA locations

What the talk is about

Vira Dakhova shows with examples how a location artist in f2p HOPA games can tell a story through objects and surroundings, not only through the script. She explains how to plan the composition before detailed painting: pick the main object and guide the player's eye with lines. She also covers contrast of shapes, with strict straight lines set against soft curved ones, and contrast of light, color and depth planes that makes the key elements stand out. Palette and sun position set the mood and season, for example autumn melancholy. Small details, such as items on tables and traces of life in rooms, reveal the characters' personalities and hint at events that have already happened. Useful for location artists, art leads and writers of casual games.