Undisclosed Pirate Game | Gameplay Concept Design

In 2020, Gameco Studios commissioned me to help design a city-building game featuring vertical construction set in a pirate-themed world.
https://www.artstation.com/gamecostudios

My approach to concept design is to never lose sight of the game itself. That’s why I couldn’t resist contributing a few ideas for the gameplay.

My approach to concept design is to never lose sight of the game itself. That’s why I couldn’t resist contributing a few ideas for the gameplay.

At this early stage of development, anything goes. Countless ideas are swirling around in my head and are brought to life through infographics, mood boards, or quick photobashes.

At this early stage of development, anything goes. Countless ideas are swirling around in my head and are brought to life through infographics, mood boards, or quick photobashes.

What’s more, this process is important for me in getting to grips with the subject matter.

What’s more, this process is important for me in getting to grips with the subject matter.

Enough ideas gathered. Lets create a scene.

Enough ideas gathered. Lets create a scene.

I first had to figure out what such an island might actually look like. It was like playing with Playmobil. Using a simple set of wooden pieces, I put together a small diorama.

I first had to figure out what such an island might actually look like. It was like playing with Playmobil. Using a simple set of wooden pieces, I put together a small diorama.

Finished Island-test. Hanging bridges, ropes, ladders, VERTICALITY!

Finished Island-test. Hanging bridges, ropes, ladders, VERTICALITY!

When everything is made of wood, it’s hard to distinguish things. So: shape language. Residents live in tiny homes attached to walls, taverns as central hubs have tall masts and flags. Building function always visible for afar.

When everything is made of wood, it’s hard to distinguish things. So: shape language. Residents live in tiny homes attached to walls, taverns as central hubs have tall masts and flags. Building function always visible for afar.

Even if these graphics aren't especially beautiful, make sure youre idea is well communicated to the client.

Even if these graphics aren't especially beautiful, make sure youre idea is well communicated to the client.

Finally evening.

Finally evening.

Good night.

Good night.