Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
suggest her own ideas, and to collaborate in the truest sense of the word
with the writer.
Detailed character information allows the concept artist to consider
every aspect of the character while designing potential visuals. Knowing
how old the character is, what his upbringing was like, his fears, goals, and
prejudices—detailed, personal information such as this will fire the
concept artist's imagination and help produce not only the best designs,
but the ones that help tell the character's story.
What does a scar across the face tell us about someone? How about a
person who only wears black? Someone armed mainly with knives in a
world populated by gunslingers? A man who wears a mask? Or one who
chooses not to wear a mask when everyone else around him does? These
are the kinds of details that help convey important information about that
character, at a single glance and with no need for tiresome explanation.
Some characters might even have arcs that result in fundamental
changes to who they are and what they believe and stand for. Is a physical
manifestation of these changes called for, and if so does the concept artist
have a firm understanding of what the changes are and how they might be
visually depicted?
Every element of the character's look should tell us something about
him, and that something should be consistent with the writer's vision of
that character. If you, as a concept artist, don't have the information you
need regarding that vision, ask for it. Demand it!
2D Art/Modeling/Texture Work
While the 2D artist(s), modeler(s), and texture artist(s) working on a game
character generally have concept art on which to base their own work, it is
still important for them to understand Design and Narrative intentions with
regard to that character. They need to know not just the whats but the
whys. Thus, a detailed Character Description Document is just as import-
ant for them as any other member of the team helping to bring the char-
acter to life.
