BA3 - (CS) Elements of Character Design

Relevant Article: http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/185676/the_aesthetics_of_game_art_and_.php

An article written by Chris Solarski on Gamasutra called, ‘The Aesthetics of Game Art and Game Design’ highlights the importance of learning from the old master painters when it comes to composition techniques, as well as what it means to place certain lines and shapes within a drawn concept. His points reflect very relevant elements that could be used within character design.

Solarski tells us that some of the most important ‘aesthetic concepts throughout art history’ relate to what particular shapes mean, for example the circle, exemplifying ‘innocence, youth, energy’ and ’femininity’. The square, which relates to ‘maturity, stability, balance’ and ‘stubbornness’ as well as the triangle, which links to ‘aggression, masculinity’ and ‘force’.

This can be applied to different video game characters, especially those that have more exaggerated/cartoon-like features. A good example of this would be Mario, Luigi and Wario from the Nintendo games. The personality and roles that the characters play within the game represents this idea of the circle, square and triangle design aesthetic very well.

Solarski describes Mario’s personality as being ‘dynamic, youthful’ and ‘positive’, which instantly resonates with what the circle is usually applied in design for. It comes as no surprise that ‘Mario’s design is based on [a] circular concept — from his spherical torso, to his round moustache.’ Although Wario shares a similar design, his face is very representative of the triangle - with his larger mouth and smaller forehead.

Another important aspect when creating a character is the contrast between them and the environment in which they’re placed, which Solarski describes as ‘a sense of dissonance’. This becomes apparent when ‘a circular character appears threatened when placed in an edgy environment; while a triangular character appears the threat in a soft and rounded environment’.

It’s also important to understand the psychological meanings behind why these particular shapes are used, which Solarski explains that ‘each shape is visually and psychologically distinct from the other. Such contrast is an essential component of storytelling, sparking conflict and action within the narrative, and an emotional conflict within the audience. Which is why, throughout art history, the circle and triangle have been used abstractly to define two opposing forces’.

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