http://www.zachschlappi.com/latest daily 1.0 2023-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185438215-MRJTO2OCYYJS3VG98TKU/ROME_OUT.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: A pitch for an open world 3rd person action game set during the Second Punic War.2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185438215-MRJTO2OCYYJS3VG98TKU/ROME_OUT.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: A pitch for an open world 3rd person action game set during the Second Punic War.2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185306218-9HTYLRN10IIU6ZHZJ1LZ/Roman.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: A historically tweaked Roman Centurion whose design emphasizes readability through color and silhouette. It is easy to go overboard on detail that will be lost in a rich environment; for me, shapes, colors and layered depth are more important for game play than detail overkill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458577549128-VMQR5SS8IKYAXTUODWWO/image-asset.jpeg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage Lorem ipsum https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185305592-C8WJFAPGM5J4SL81RE9H/CELT.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: A Celtic warrior, part of Hannibal's army. Specificity of historical details are more compelling than just generic "barbarian" visual cliches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185462560-E3TDRIDQBA29N0NLK9L8/ALPS_OUT.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: An iconic image that comes to mind is a Roman patrol stumbling upon the bigger than life elephants of Hannibal's forces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452185305708-J90YTPF23SC2U2L70NSG/PHON_01.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage 2015: A Phoneacian warrior. Typically any combatant in sandals are not very threatening, which is why I try to wrap their feet in leggings. This not only provides bulk, but also visual interest and a sense they aren't as vulnerable as their footwear portends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1457656688821-MJAP7RLZIARVCMEJQOUB/image-asset.jpeg HIGHLIGHTS - Just Cause 3 DLC "Flying Fortress" 2015: Early concept sketches for the mining drones. Rapid development suits quick sketches over detailed illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1457657114394-AMIA8SR7NQVV5IBMVDDC/image-asset.png HIGHLIGHTS - Just Cause 3 DLC "Flying Fortress" 2015: Typically, for Sci-Fi to feel "believable", it's important to design forms that are inspired by existing and familiar shapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458577451139-P00UH4SL0OTZGCHENCQ9/image-asset.jpeg HIGHLIGHTS - Son of Carthage Lorem ipsum https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1457656961053-99X5P00DT4PCWZD0AHA5/image-asset.jpeg HIGHLIGHTS - Just Cause 3 DLC "Flying Fortress" 2015: Early concept of a mining drone. This is a visual evolution of the massive insect inspired Bavarium excavator in JC3. A straight forward visual analogy of a tick sucking blood from the earth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1457657227023-2U5V5QF16SQ8JWWTG9P9/upload_8_27_2015_at_11_42_47_AM.png HIGHLIGHTS - Just Cause 3 DLC "Flying Fortress" 2015: Early concepts of the massive VTOL ship in the released DLC. Early versions were inspired by the Airlander designs combined with whale and catfish forms. I shifted to a catamaran design to save resources through mirroring/duplication. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452184485913-8ODOOKEV697X6D2N5G9O/Coastal_epic_01_FINAL_RED_VERSION.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Just Cause 3 2013; Production concept depicting Rico coming upon DiRavello's forces attacking a Mediterranean coastal town. I'd say this concept is a departure from the other concepts due to the muted colors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452181716663-RWQFGQ96826MQ55JLXMJ/fcf_samerica_01.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry Factions 2009: I've cannibalised concept art to suit new visions and purposes. Originally, this background was inspired by the craggy rocks of Africa's Chad. When we switched to South America, out with Chad and in with a Patagonian mountain range and a shift in color palette to boot! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452181888387-VKJ33DC4HMB7C76LQOZJ/P4.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry 3 2010: After seeing James Cameron's Avatar I quickly redid an island concept to include more fantastical elements such as more dramatic terrain, waterfalls and cloud shapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458850106953-2872PFTDMGMPW95AFGET/Africa_01.jpg.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry Factions 2009: One of my favorite concepts: a culmination of irony, game play mechanics and narrative tension among the ruins of an abandonment resort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452180949327-C56ARRHQCU62KSIMXXNQ/FC3_01.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry Factions 2009: Borrowing heavily from "Romancing the Stone", I loved the idea of abandoned airplane crash sites turned into makeshift safe-house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452181739118-HKKEM8R4XVKODK32X42U/fcf_samerica_21.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry 3 2009: At one point, we were considering setting FC3 in a South American location. I melded the biomes of Peru, Brazil and Argentina to create a "perceived brand" of South America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1457657701568-MJEQGJJI7QZQ5XT1ZOR0/Coastline_01.jpg HIGHLIGHTS 2009 - Far Cry 3 pitch concept for the visual direction of the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452179640287-M1MOR7QYI7P2IDJLIS8C/hero_hide_01.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry Factions 2009: An example of showcasing game play. Our every man hero uses his environment to conceal himself from the enemy, while he grips his iconic machete in one hand and walkie-talkie in the other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452179623223-H56IIW8KIA31Z8JWB4XI/FC3_HOLE_01b.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry 3 2010: We were greatly includenced by J. J. Abram's "Lost". This is an early pre-production concept of an "underwater" excavation site. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452179634060-5NW6PETMZABO0YD3HH8T/FC3_JMOB_01b.jpg HIGHLIGHTS - Far Cry 3 2010 - Early pre-production concept of VTOL aircraft transporting mobile drilling platforms over the island. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/566b1ebd1c121011eddb64ff/56f431c822482e2eb656677f/1675147199840/ HIGHLIGHTS http://www.zachschlappi.com/personal-work daily 0.75 2016-03-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215679906-GENO440S25FWZHXF9LS7/WEBSITE.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215679906-GENO440S25FWZHXF9LS7/WEBSITE.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215697069-WLPCRNUVR798AWXK9P56/nude_06.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215703932-2ATY50S78TTZ7T4549PA/060411_07.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215715164-6M6IT0MAE1JFZRH58Q4L/08.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215721374-EXB5MNPLNRIKYXQBDYW8/001.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215729465-8CWSI7MAVH0JB3IAO0G9/ART_07.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215736251-JKLZ9PLORY34RC39O2PT/ART_05.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215883532-7NEY7VMCR1FFGPRUJ9WF/ART_03.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215748325-DJG48C4T41I7X579PQGK/ART_12.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215757871-GIM9VX59V7ZK15LRH0IR/ART_16.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215785794-D1RIVDPYUMDS5TP6REM2/wyLcpFd.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215794475-EPMNPN4FMVXEQB9ZIAAA/look_dev_03.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215796895-R9U8ZIGS4EECM8IGEBBP/look_dev_02.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452215875808-78IYYBQI8AH5E8BFTU6V/ART_38.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217445990-54ORWS5CZMTDJQVIO4YJ/07.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217449150-HEVNFIUSFMN0RQRC39U5/05.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217522058-71RPAUMHEIZNHTJANJVB/TR_20.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217532517-Q3TDGNS65283DI4E21OY/TR_23.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217428358-QW0R9WFBZCARNLRSC1GC/TR_29.jpg PERSONAL WORK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1452217436117-RFQ5E4Q6ZVHXLDPDZ6GJ/TR_30.jpg PERSONAL WORK http://www.zachschlappi.com/art-directors-critiques-and-reviews daily 0.75 2016-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456094942093-EE1IXMDEJAK5T102BVI6/Avalanche_MarioFrigo_v02_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Early Mario Notes on various poses for Mario. Since this was one of our first characters, it was important to get the tone through the pose as soon as possible - as we would use these images to pitch to the publisher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456094942093-EE1IXMDEJAK5T102BVI6/Avalanche_MarioFrigo_v02_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Early Mario Notes on various poses for Mario. Since this was one of our first characters, it was important to get the tone through the pose as soon as possible - as we would use these images to pitch to the publisher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456094991707-IQ58D9N10YOSE7WS4BSU/Avalanche_General_v01_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Early General Di Ravello I pulled a page from a style guide to illustrate the physique we are targeting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095007247-LXATVDTZNK4VWZFYV71O/Avalanche_General_v02_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Early General di Ravello Any artist who's worked with me knows my disdain for all things symmetrical! Here we are narrowing down the look/feel of the General using more detailed images. Once a tonal study is chosen, typically we move on to color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095069049-JND99TCV7BU1Z5N4J7TA/Avalanche_Mambo_Rico_v01_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Early Rico I try to imagine Rico from the POV of the player. Here, I worked with our extraordinary animation lead to marry his poses with the art direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095164726-ILN01A4O54YOSLJ6XQTR/BAVARIUM_PROCESSING_AREA.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Bavarium Strip Mines Happy days are the rare moment when I need to quickly create a style guide in a couple of hours. I thank all those days of growing up with David Macaulay and Jean Giraud ("Moebius"). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095172125-126RAJXVVM2CO2FJ26K8/01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Bavarium Strip Mines Recruiters ask if I roll up my sleeves and work with the tools - I say it's a professional necessity; expediency is cannibalising kits, reconfigure, re-assemble and draw over what we need to fill the gaps as quickly as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095277338-O2EHNM3TTU6XIA86BFJT/bacio_1196.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Anti Aircraft Gun I love specificity and I'm sure all my online searches for weapon blueprints, military bases and armaments have spawned an FBI/CIA file as fat as the three volumes of "Lord of the Rings". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095296108-HXM9P8K33MC6DJ7NSSM4/coastal.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - High Level Style Guide One thing I've learned over the years: artists are constantly bombarded with information, so even if they have a chance to read, it can often be forgotten. Keeping style guides to one sheet is a life long challenge at times! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095035159-PPXHVODFU7G11IV2FGM6/Avalanche_Mambo_Coastline_v03_REVIEW.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Concept Art Early in production, specificity is very important to nail a particular look. I try to provide outsource artists as many specific clear examples and paint overs as I can so we can close in on the vision and we can go home at 6:00 PM! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095380273-GD8DT4A6WUDGD0QG3Z7Z/EMP_WEAPON_01+-+Copy.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Production Sketches Another example of production art I had to complete within an hour for design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095485835-6P1FXN9TSRFUAN35EKIW/Marketing_notes_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Marketing I love working with marketing and Square Enix' marketing was a lot f fun to collaborate with. Here, we were discussing the early logo designs. This is when I usually throw the logo on a "mock up" game cover to see how it sits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095646069-1N2DXC5EHOYOFHOW8C6A/propa_van.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Propaganda Van If at all possible, I like to find a real world example of an asset before I dive into hacking an existing vehicle to be another chaos object. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095339231-PL75KZDBQ7444SFW4KER/DRM_VEHICLE_02.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - D.R.M. Technical Another example of achieving more mileage out of existing assets. I try to keep mesh changes as simple and achievable as possible without sacrificing the overall intent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095548276-A3N45SLN9ZQ3W1XO3HDY/oil_hi_low_pipes.PNG CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Industrial Kit Very first stab at breaking down reference photos into design friendly industrial pieces. Design is happiest when we account for cover and AI pathing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456097343335-40ZPZB6OUNHDG8TWYFNP/v3501_bike_solar_modernmoped_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Scooter Everyday is a new challenge. My Assistant AD in Sweden typically took care of vehicle reviews, but he was out sick and I had to jump in for him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456097255602-ZV0AP58KVPTDWWUFLJXH/v0011_car_autostraad_articulatedtruck_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Truck Cab It is very easy to lose sight of branding, especially if it's a fictional brand. Nonetheless, visual consistency is the most important tenet of Art Direction, in my opinion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095508358-VZRD5W4GRAGFO533PU56/medici_class_heli_carrier.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Corvette A one sheet style guide that melds favorite ships chosen by a designer and an engineer. Often, my job is to take draw from as many inspirations and ideas from the team and find a way to make them work with the established vision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095580897-KNAMI1QX815HVJPKUX3Y/pastoral_04.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Terrain - Materials and Propping The agricultural areas of Medici were my favorite and I love designing the field/farm variants in the countryside. They are designed to maximize the feel of speed when driving and navigation during flying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095565438-PAJY89981FM7KELL0L89/POST_REV_MIL_BASE_VIG_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Military Checkpoint Production concept breaking down elements of a liberated checkpoint. Never under estimate the need to be obvious. The color RED and the color BLUE were crucial to establish who controlled what in a busy open world environment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095808816-6OWY8GUU12X6L2ZIJHRN/SM28_ROUND.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - MAG WEAPONS Every so often the team is given a day or two to come up with new mechanics for the game. This was a RPG round that created an inverse magnetic implosion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095935517-TRRP8P667BJC5JCEMVA3/PANORAMA_PAINTOVER_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Polishing the World! Many a day I'll take screenshots and paint over, re-balance and add details that will push the visual quality! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456095836845-1B54GMDJ3X1P36RFDYNX/rc_sm322_drone.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - DRONE GUN The studio floor is littered with ideas. I would love to have used a drone gun to wreak havoc on DiRavello's troops! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096192037-K5FUJIR0T89ACWQ1N9PQ/catwalks_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Pipeline Proposal In an effort to speed up outsourcing and art creation, I proposed streamlining our asset creation to focus on generic modular pieces that can be assembled in different configurations instead of "one offs". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096251585-Z4Q64AEWLFJRN1TOG3TE/INTERIOR_MEDICIAN_FORT.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Medician Fortifications Working with a designer, we were able to assemble a range of assets that were both artist and designer friendly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096384804-Z2X07OMY1KFSJKQF2R6R/UI_ICONS_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - UI/UX Review of icons for readability and flow. In some cases, icons have to consistently reflect a family of upgrades, so they must be visually consistent, obvious and scaleable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096384781-ZWBNPDVXC4O8B4WACCRT/UI_ICONS_02.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - UI/UX https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096638967-Z3ZIDWHGK314F21Z7CNG/facade_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Outsourcing Notes When time is short and one is not sure if the developer is sensitive to historical architectural details, it pays to be very specific with particular assets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456097142831-H6BAWSLV9XC2BP8J9KVJ/sancte_lucas_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Monastary Often I'll assemble existing pieces to create new compound kits that are fully propped and QA'd so all the designer has to do is find their favorite location and place the compound asset - everyone is happy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456097004317-9SCVJ10YIKTRYC7TCRS5/GUARD_BUILDING_Ab.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Light Military Checkpoint https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456097098705-MZ5DC8J7PDRJ7G1YBGFN/ms180_lighting_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Cinematics I love lighting and staging notes for cinematics, but it - in of itself - is a full time job! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1456096506248-9GGIHQKXZOC6IMA3DOP6/FORMER_SALI_POLICE_HQ.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Police Station Ruins https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823320761-2INAJ82JFGC09189BLSK/AGNI_ANALYSIS_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Assets One of the roles of being an Art Director is also making sure the client's vision is being addressed consistently and accurately. Here I am working with the Mumbai team in realizing assets for DeNA's "Star Wars: Galactic Defense." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823507792-Q2RCLPUGAPS6CDALPZS3/lineweight.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Character Assets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823362543-IVHICYST68B0CEO2MECO/reply_review_torso_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Character Assets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823425635-XFPP5BUGDVV917VG7H19/Notes_03.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Character Assets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823533121-CCC0I8O1EHJIHEBQD9TQ/NFNP_051315_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Character Assets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458823337087-A8PNO2FOLR7JC88Z5B05/nfnp_051315_CLIENTREPLY_01.jpg CRITIQUE & REVIEW - Mobile Character Assets http://www.zachschlappi.com/portfolio-1 daily 0.75 2016-04-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684040793-GUZDFOMHAV75DK856ZXK/02.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684040793-GUZDFOMHAV75DK856ZXK/02.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684041294-IR5GF8A6H9XVTWPHKI0B/01.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684047099-OQ7XYN6UW5YISGBJUSEL/03.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684047894-Y7G2DVB26OLOXS8NCNCO/04.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684053387-Y7JFFCQWHJQ5FE75DZTD/05.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684053005-KQ4Q6TZ2HRPOI73A0KDO/06.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684058792-IEYW096MJC2EZLK03LYJ/07.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684058311-TF4T2XXPY2DJ7SDNS1XE/08.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684066128-EVBYAANQMDIIT1Q27HXA/09.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684066502-HWUSE42DSC6ZW7FBM0PK/10.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684068175-WRFVJ6KIB1APXDL74MNI/11.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684072121-BONFA0NXFPIUU1YBSHBS/12.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684075687-42YBE80C6THKGMIV7FPG/13.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684077371-4F4YGP1V6JX24O4WU00V/14.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684081246-A01ZA50Y87VJMORVPCKC/15.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684083023-X4ZGXIS8N31N31YL1E7Q/16.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684088053-THVOME8WB0XKFK5RC09C/17.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684087858-8WIREM32DV29CJ5FNTJZ/18.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684093534-WF470PTQWJ036AVCFCXX/19.jpg PORTFOLIO https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458684093543-46ORWZZDSV0ALR6UM8CL/20.jpg PORTFOLIO http://www.zachschlappi.com/test daily 0.75 2016-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1458844412117-D9YONKPPY9QM57A4HBQA/CLIENT_REPLY_01.jpg TEST - TEST TEST OF THIS IMAGE http://www.zachschlappi.com/pitch-deck daily 0.75 2016-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562052268-GMBG5B4UU68P5S41VLOR/SOR_01.jpg MY PROCESS - If I had to Art Direct "Ryse: Son of Rome" Never underestimate the power of branding. Use their fonts, their colors and take it a step further! I sometimes experiment first on the deck template and the title/logo to find an emotion: in this case, stone and blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562052268-GMBG5B4UU68P5S41VLOR/SOR_01.jpg MY PROCESS - If I had to Art Direct "Ryse: Son of Rome" Never underestimate the power of branding. Use their fonts, their colors and take it a step further! I sometimes experiment first on the deck template and the title/logo to find an emotion: in this case, stone and blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562052250-MNWH9GMZZYZAMEN6NBP3/SOR_02.jpg MY PROCESS - This is my process. . . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562054742-2VLXX8ONM2A3G8JHTJB7/SOR_03.jpg MY PROCESS - Considering the Competition When the discussion of expectations arise, my first instinct is to understand what the assumed playing field will be when a product releases; what are the graphical trends, design mechanics, features, etc. This provides a lot of context and starts what I call tactical art direction and focus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562055059-WSQ548EA3L2PK4AHQL06/SOR_4.jpg MY PROCESS - Establishing the Context Publishers usually already have a good sense if a genre will make money or not. If marketing information is not available, then I google as much as I can about the viability of the genre, and make a case for it, both visually and culturally. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562055995-E8EPI7R0RILGY0IX05ME/SOR_05.jpg MY PROCESS - Defending your Argument If you're going to ask a publisher for money, you have to be able to answer why. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562056444-2SL6RTJR1H6JENKDGZ84/SOR_6.jpg MY PROCESS - Save the Cat! The power of starting with a logline. . . Blake Snyder wrote a great book on screenwriting and story structure. I apply it to art direction: fundamentally, if I can't explain my visual approach in one or two sentences, then I'm not asking or answering the right questions. This is a key step to remaining focused and tactical! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562057349-77U54YJMFXINJC3BUV83/SOR_07.jpg MY PROCESS - Simplying the Goals Once Design has their objectives laid out, I either appropriate them for art direction and/or add my own objectives based on the needs of the brand and the expectations of the publisher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562059957-5ODDYUBDVJL0VFEEKIJM/SOR_08.jpg MY PROCESS - Key Concept Art Whenever pitching to a publisher, it's always best to use that one piece of key concept art that embodies the emotional and visual tone of the brand. Whenever I create a concept, I try to imagine it from the player's perspective, painting a narrative from left to right, portraying likely assets in the game yet keeping a balance between the visual goals and development realities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562060725-Z03TS9SUM9CVDCYT1F84/SOR_9.jpg MY PROCESS - Breaking it down! I love this part the most: giving reason to imagery. I try to be very deliberate in how I compose concept art and include all the ingredients I feel would not only be in keeping for the brand but also help make a beautiful game! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562062602-J3VRHTRDIYMUT4O7RBMK/SOR_10.jpg MY PROCESS - Breaking it down! I explain all my major points leveraging photo reference that ties as closely as possible to the visual direction as possible. I try to be as specific and grounded as possible so the art direction is clear, concise and easily understood by everyone, especially the team! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562063291-QJLNUQNX70JROIWFGL43/SOR_11.jpg MY PROCESS - References are important! I'm so happy I received a BA in English Literature. I spent a majority of my time in the library doing research, the same techniques I applied to finding appropriate and useful photo reference. The more specific and topical my reference the more fresh and compelling the visual direction! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562064968-W1TZ9IP1Y1K3CAEHV93S/SOR_12.jpg MY PROCESS - Establishing Contrasts Everyone loves progression, whether it's a movie, a game or a book. I try to use pallet and atmosphere as a tool for narrative as much as possible. In this case, the transition from sunny warm Mediterranean colors to the gloom dampness of the English countryside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562065230-CZENHP82IFDXQ4YLL8TL/SOR_13.jpg MY PROCESS - Shape Language Equally as important is to establish consistent and clear shape language. It doesn't have to be complex, it just has to be effective. The closer the visual language reinforces narrative the more immersive the player will feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562066994-K4H0TQX8UFA4DLTJOCX2/SOR_14.jpg MY PROCESS - Establishing the Enemy When working in well-trodden grenres, I always try to find unique references. Sometimes it takes longer and sometimes I don't find it, but I strongly believe in contributing something new and fresh to a product, especially if it's part of a franchise. It's how to keep a brand fresh and relavent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562067325-SWQR6P42YYNR7BDDP6MT/SOR_15.jpg MY PROCESS - Finding Originality I not only push to be original and distinct, but I try to be as specific as possible without losing sight of the emotional value. Fine Art, film reference, even cultural references outside of what is considered conventional help to contribute fresh viewpoints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562068689-MQS2SEUXPWUS9LT35RZ1/SOR_16.jpg MY PROCESS - Character Design I even take visual cues from toys and models to emphasize what's important and what isn't in believable character design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562069560-0UE9UF3Q2432UUJCD6DH/SOR_17.jpg MY PROCESS - Depth to Character Regardless of how good your shaders are or how big your poly budget is, if the character doesn't have a sense of depth through layering and variety in textures and color, it will feel like a Barbie or a Ken doll. I seek practical wear and tear, every surface should tell a specific detail of that character's life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562070318-8S5IZBABP3NDUQA3J5UC/SOR_18.jpg MY PROCESS - Building Atmosphere I truly believe in "back of the box features". These are selling points that can help differentiate one game from another. Whenever I'm part of a project, I always try to make a practical case for a rendering and/or F/X innovation, as long as it's appropriate to the brand and design's vision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562070772-7TO3PI5QZ17QNVWU25B5/SOR_19.jpg MY PROCESS - One More Thing. . . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562072912-LHUVKTBG9YO9NXNGK0AX/SOR_20.jpg MY PROCESS - Pushing the Envelope I wouldn't be a very effective art director if I didn't let my inner child out. Growing up collecting Peter Connolly's historical picture books was a great inspiration in building this pitch. A publishder can tell, and maybe even appreciate when you bring something personal to the project. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1474562071921-EACZHFGLYMZ6MB1191BG/SOR_21.jpg MY PROCESS http://www.zachschlappi.com/about daily 0.75 2023-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5669f8c7d8af109f600ff765/1449860129452-C3GTF7EBIDIH0HRDMSFP/image-asset.jpeg ABOUT http://www.zachschlappi.com/resume-1 daily 0.75 2023-01-31 http://www.zachschlappi.com/contact daily 0.75 2016-03-24