Summary of Gathering Reference Pt.1 | Level Design Devlog #4

In this video, the creator discusses the importance of gathering reference materials for designing environments in a single-player first-person shooter (FPS) game. The techniques and processes highlighted can be applied to any game development project. Key points include:

Artistic Techniques and Concepts:

Value of Reference: Using reference materials helps clarify design elements and inspires new ideas.
Focus on Environment: Start by collecting key images that represent core visual elements, such as architecture and terrain, which aid in understanding scale.
Basic Shape Language: Concentrate on the foundational shapes and structures to establish the level's identity.
mood boards: Create collages of reference images to provide inspiration and organization during the design process. mood boards can include:
- Color palettes for visual consistency.
- Different boards for various areas of a level, especially in larger projects.

Creative Process:

Visual Hooks and Set Pieces: Identify unique architectural features or elements that can enhance gameplay and visual interest (e.g., damaged structures, crashed planes).
Iterative Design: Use mood boards to represent evolving ideas, including lighting, vegetation, and gameplay elements.

Tools and Materials:

Photoshop: Used for creating mood boards.
PureRef: A recommended application for creating and sharing mood boards easily.

Additional Notes:

The creator encourages feedback and suggestions from viewers for future episodes and mentions the benefits of joining their Discord community for networking and support in game development.

Contributors:

The video features insights from the creator and acknowledges the PureRef application, developed by a small team.
Additionally, a shoutout is given to Discord server boosters.

Notable Quotes

— 00:30 — « Using reference is a very important part of the creative process. »

— 01:08 — « Focusing on the basic shape language will help give the level its overall identity. »

— 02:42 — « Spice is good, you know. I like spice. Spice it up. »

— 04:36 — « With PureRef, you can essentially create an endless mood board quickly and painlessly. »

— 04:59 — « PureRef is built by a small team, so throw them a Starbucks coffee worth of money when you download it. »