Gather Creative References
Once the desired player experience has been clearly defined, the next step involves collecting relevant references. These references serve several purposes:
They provide valuable study material.
They demonstrate how various elements function, appear, or sound.
They help identify common features when analyzing objects, living things, phenomena, etc. For example, if you wish to visualize a typical medieval castle, a collection of references will reveal recurring architectural characteristics.
They assist in the creation of mood boards that evoke a specific atmosphere or emotional tone.
Types of References
If you are seeking high-quality references, the following sources can be particularly helpful:
360-Degree Panoramas
These panoramas capture real-world environments from a fixed location—whether natural or artificial—and are available in high resolution on platforms for computer-generated content or web-based mapping services.
A 360-degree panorama of Venice.
Credit: Polyhaven.com.
3D Scans
These are digital 3D models created from data that define the appearance and shape of objects, creatures, or environments. This data is typically collected using cameras through photogrammetry or with the help of 3D scanners. In comparison to 3D models produced through computer-generated graphics (3D modeling), 3D scans are generally more authentic and accurate, as they are derived from real-world objects. These scans are available on platforms where users share 3D content.
A 3D scan representing a railway switch.
Credit: Freepoly.org.
Aerial Photos and Video Footage
Captured from elevated viewpoints, these images can offer precise overviews of terrain. When photographed from a perpendicular angle, they are suitable for generating accurate maps and layouts. They are accessible through various photography and media websites.
Architectural Visualizations
These are 3D renderings created by architects and designers to represent real-world construction projects. They are widely available on professional showcase platforms.
Blogs
Blogs are websites that contain a collection of posts in which bloggers share photographs, videos, and audio recordings from their trips, expeditions, and other experiences. When you come across a well-curated post featuring numerous images, it can provide valuable insights into a particular subject. Additionally, there are blogs specifically dedicated to field recording, where professional field recordists upload high-quality audio recordings that are available for immediate access. While some blog posts may include short audio samples, obtaining longer recordings or a more extensive collection typically requires purchasing the full library of sound effects, either directly from the blog or through digital media marketplaces.
Blueprints and Floor Plans
Blueprints provide architects, contractors, and other relevant parties with a bird’s-eye view of a building, effectively illustrating its layout. Studying well-constructed plans can assist in designing levels that enhance the credibility and functionality of the spatial arrangement within a building. Should you be seeking ready-made house plans, such plans can readily be found on various commercial websites.
Books
Books can be a source of profound inspiration. Specific themes, settings, events, or characters may resonate deeply and spark ideas relevant to your game development process.
Concept Art
Concept art presents visual ideas used in games, films, or books. It can be a useful tool for generating inspiration when developing similar narratives or atmospheres.
Films
Movies, particularly fictional films, can offer imaginative insights. For realistic settings, documentaries serve as excellent sources of factual detail and environmental authenticity.
Maps
Cartographers produce various types of maps, such as:
Topographic maps (elevation and terrain).
Geological maps (rock formations and structures).
Political maps (country and regional borders).
Physical maps (landforms and natural features).
Thematic maps (specific subject-focused data).
Cadastral maps (property and land ownership).
Studying such maps will enhance your understanding of how cartographers in the real world visually represent geographic areas through graphical means. Building upon this knowledge, you will be better equipped to design clear and coherent layouts for your levels or game maps, which players can effectively use to navigate and explore your game world.
Personal Experience
First-hand experiences are often the most powerful sources of creative inspiration, allowing you to craft environments that are authentic and emotionally resonant.
Reference Pictures
These are photographs used by artists during the creative process. They are commonly available from online marketplaces that offer digital media assets.
Satellite Imagery
Captured by orbiting satellites, these images provide steep-angle views ideal for generating detailed maps. They are available via web mapping services and 3D Earth visualization applications.
Sound Recordings
These are audio recordings that capture sounds in natural or uncontrolled environments outside of a traditional recording studio. They may also be captured underwater through the use of hydrophones. Such recordings provide accurate representations of how various environments sound, whether it be a bustling boulevard in a major city or a forest at night. Many field recordists share their work through personal websites or audio distribution platforms. These recordings are also available in the form of sound effect libraries, which can be accessed via digital media marketplaces or through cloud-based audio libraries.
Video Games
Analyzing video games is an effective method for generating new ideas and gaining insight into concepts that have already been explored. If you wish to obtain useful information about games that share certain similarities with your own, it is advisable to play those games and examine how their individual game elements function. In addition to hands-on experience, you may also watch gameplay videos available online or participate in discussions with players and fellow game developers to deepen your understanding.
Tips When Working with References
General Approach to Using References
Do not attempt to directly copy from other games; instead, aim to draw inspiration from them.
References will rarely align perfectly with your specific needs. Therefore, it is advisable to gather multiple references, extract useful elements from each, and combine them into a single, cohesive final reference.
The more references you collect, the clearer your vision for what you want to create will become. However, excessive accumulation of references can lead to confusion and decision fatigue. Keep in mind that reference-gathering can become an endless process, so it is important to recognize the point at which to stop searching and begin creating.
Character Design and Pose Reference
- When designing a non-human character in a particular pose, consider referencing a human figure in the same pose. This approach can provide useful anatomical cues and improve the believability of the final design.
Visual Analysis and Efficiency
- While studying visual references, try to identify recurring elements that can be reused to accelerate your creative process. For example, when designing the interior of a building, take note of repeated architectural features such as columns, doors, staircases, windows, or decorative elements.
Reference Collection and Organization
When you come across a reference that may be useful now or in the future, save it either locally in a designated folder or through online bulletin boards using social media platforms or list-building tools.
In collaborative projects, consider using digital collaboration platforms that support shared message boards and facilitate discussions around reference materials.
Implementing consistent naming conventions and maintaining organized file structures will significantly improve your efficiency when retrieving specific references, especially when dealing with large collections.
Creating Realistic and Immersive Scenes
- If your objective is to create a realistic scene, pay attention not only to the large, prominent elements but also to the smaller, nuanced details. Including natural imperfections and subtle variations will contribute to a more believable and immersive environment.