Technique for Creating Beautiful Level Design

[@noam5153]

In the intro alone, there’s so many details and life to the town

[@ImPonds]

What game was that in the vid

[@knight654654]

@@ImPonds Chef RPG however I don't think it's released yet.

[@javianmuniz]

This is, so far, the most interesting KZbin channel to learn pixel art. Thanks for giving us such much value, and good luck with Chef RPG. It looks amazing! already in my wishlist! ☺️

[@vindirect]

what about what colors to use?

[@poppers7317]

For environmental art at least.

[@KelseyRodriguez]

if you ever live-streamed while you worked on the game I'd 100% watch! really enjoyed learning about your process, pixel art & game dev is really interesting to me even though I'm a traditional artist

[@PixelArchitect]

Appreciate it :) Unfortunately I work a lot better huddled in my quiet cave haha. Don't think streaming will benefit my efficiency

[@RoseRainblood]

​@@PixelArchitect This is how I feel. I used to stream game development but I stopped because it was taking up so much time that could have been spent on game development. It's wonderful to be tucked away in my dark quiet cave 24/7 now. :D

[@MaryArts]

8:03 wow that is such a great improvement. Very brave of you to change the design so drastically for the sake of our enjoyment. It looks soooooo good

[@Mythic-Lee]

I love the fact that you documented creating your game. If someone who's just starting out to learn Game Dev, this is super helpful. ❤ It's even better then most of the tutorials out there. You show how you brain storm your and then build a scene while explaining, why something works and how to adjust and try something different, even if it means red designing something.

[@davidwebber5678]

Your delivery of explanation, thought-behind-the-actions, and thoroughness, are very ASMR'ish. Your content is very much appreciated, at least by me!

[@ThePixelExpedition]

Fantastic insight into game design principles. I love that idea of considering each camera frame as it's own work of art to help build the world. And my gosh, your artwork is beyond breathtaking! The level of detail is astounding.

[@m1sterpunch]

Your house scene was improved exponentially by that little fence and lamp post because of the perspective and you were so casual about it! It was a brilliant way to really create depth.

[@Glinnor]

What you said in 7:00 about taking a small object and turning it into a game. I believe game jams are a great exercise for what you mean, they usually have a theme and you need to create a whole game with that theme in a short period of time. For example if a game jam's theme is "Water bottle", you would definitely see dozens if not hundreds of game concepts revolving around a water bottle in different and creative ways.

[@PixelArchitect]

Very true! Game jams are a great way to get a lot of different ideas when working with a theme.

[@andrewgriggsmusic]

Everything look so good! I was going to suggest you make a game but then I finished the whole video and saw that you’re actually already doing that. So amazing!

[@Alybobson]

I'm genuinely so excited for this game. Just by looking at your videos you clearly care a lot about this project and the quality of it, especially from a user perspective which is so good to see. I have the utmost faith that this game will be top notch. Wishing you and your team all the best! Can't wait to give it a go :)

[@charko6139]

The advice you've given not only applies to 2d game art, but it's invaluable for comics as well! I've been trying to figure out how to make my pages look both cohesive and beautiful, and this was the perfect answer. Thanks for making such cool videos!

[@Faude18]

I recommend Dr. Slump and early Dragonball for a great reading flow. Toriyama was incredible in that department. It feels like the characters movements guide you through the pages.

[@charko6139]

@@Faude18 Thank you! That's awesome, I've actually been looking for some artists with great flow LOL I'll check it out!

[@diyguy8321]

I've been watching your progress on developing and it's a huge inspiration to see how it's progressed! I too have an architecture background and I have been very interested in game design/development. The way you establish your environment and bring it to life with lighting and thinking about the element of time interacting with each building is beautiful. I'd definitely get this game when it comes out.

[@vedantshukla3052]

This is the greatest video on level design I've watched so far. It tells great detail about the technical and artistic process behind of designing a game level. Not just tell principles to follow.

[@Puembogordo]

You share such good information on designing environments. Also taking a look on the process makes things so much more clear. Thanks for the useful videos bro

[@lorelynnolte4765]

I've been addicted to your videos lately; you're such an amazing architect and artist. Your comment about viewing a space from both a designer's perspective and a user's perspective reminded me of a school that I used to go to. Our mascot was a hornet, so someone designed the campus to look like a hornet from a birds eye view. The parking lot was one of the wings, so it ended up oddly shaped, difficult to navigate, and with only one exit for the entire student body. It took half an hour for the parking lot to empty out at the end of the day, but at least they were able to hang up some cool photos in the hallways. Another excellent video! I can't wait to see what you'll do next.

[@mikkokhun397]

No creators doesn't lecture or lesson for their building game except you. Thank you for teaching us and I would never know Chef RPG if you didn't upload.

[@Cam1417-TK]

Your game's visual style has improve so much! I really like your art and the explanations you give in your videos as to why you take certain decisions during the development while comparing it to your old work. I don't have any project at the moment but I feel your channel is a great help for those who do because of how well presented the information in your videos is :-)

[@Cam1417-TK]

Greetings from Chile! btw

[@yep8058]

I found it great how you went into the artistical importance of little details in the world. Making a game is never just about plain code. It must feel alive. If a game manages to immerse you with it's visual and sound design then it's done right.

[@lllppeverywhere]

This just cleared my doubts about things. I also did the same way, creating separated assets and putting it all together to create a scene. But it always felt like it doesn't fit each other as a whole and it always frustrates me. As much as I find it a bummer I might end up starting all over again, this gave me a better understanding and new insights on how I will tackle the problem this time around. Thank you so much for this.

[@milesparker557]

It's great to hear that you hired another artist to redo the character animations. They're easily the weakest visual component so far, especially up against the amazing environmental art. I think it's great that you're leaning into what you're good at (amazing environments), and letting other artists take over other stuff like character animations and portraits. Can't wait to see the new animations!

[@tiagopesce]

pixelart for me is a journey back in time.. i miss a lot pixeldam and the community i met in deviantart some time ago :D thanks for keeping the pixel flame alive

[@freshlymemed5680]

This was an incredibly insightful video. And I can't believe this gam has been under my radar for so long. The art alone is right up my alley.

[@alexandrelorusso2178]

I can actually visually an amazing cyberpunkish kinda game being made with this technique, especially when you've shown the night time of the chill fish market. Amazing concept, amazing work.

[@buddyleeorg]

Thank you for putting this together. It helped unblock me from my own art process. Finding ways to consistently improve is one of the first challenges to Pixel Art. Watching your video and comparing it with my own allowed me to do a gap analysis. One glaring gap is your line quality. You did your outline with precision not as a messy sketch as I was doing. I’ll give that a try by focusing on crisp line quality. Again, thank you!

[@niuage]

I mean, first of all, your pixel art skills are a-ma-zing. But damn, it looks like an insane amount of work just to build environments. That would scare me, especially because pixel art is hard to change, resize etc, unlike other type of assets (3d etc). Awesome stuff :)

[@PixelArchitect]

It does take a bit longer. You will have to decide which parts of the map are most important, since it's impractical to do this for every portion of the map. Like concept art, it's a good jumping off point to establish a visual style and get the sizes of things right

[@MissyMona]

From what I can tell, while he is making pixel art he seems to be using more traditional art techniques. So he doesn't seem to be focusing on things like doubles or jaggies. So, I think while it wouldn't be easy it doesn't have the same difficulty as using pixel art techniques already established.

[@bykipper7014]

Dude, this is amazing. I mean even knowing architecture and game design (to some small extent in my case), I think what you're talking about is the perfect way to combine these.

[@canhedotricks6078]

Already this game looks so incredibly lively and well made! Incredible! I cannot support anyone financially right now but I hope your game receives lots of funding. It would be amazing to play the final game!

[@skullsmitten]

oh!! scenes! vignettes! this is such a clever technique! thank you for sharing :)

[@RocketChild]

It's really great to hear you explain the complex archetectual concepts broken down into your game design. I'm an artist and can understand 'making a scene look good', but it's really interesting to hear the purposefulness of town planning and the intention that goes into the the placement of all the aspects of the world you're building!

[@AdanSn23]

this is amazing! I can't wait for this game to come out, i'm also excited to see it develop as you release more stuff like this :)

[@joaoaffonsodiasdesa7766]

amazing! your take in environment design from the architecture perspective feels really fresh, i'm reflecting about and learning a lot! thanks for sharing your process

[@unknown-qn3vj]

Finally a new video. I was so excited for a new video that I kept on rewatching the old ones

[@viniciusvmrx2845]

That way of design by framming like a portrait blew my mind. Amazing job!

[@zenyachao4330]

It's so awesome to see how much of your experience in architecture can be applied to graphic design, no joke, you are like one of my main inspirations when it comes to making pixel art, seeing your work gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone and learn more about it! Also wow, seeing your work from 2020 to 2022 is incredible, you have improved so much!! I am so happy for you guys and it's always a joy to see news about your upcoming game! Can't wait to play it! Cheers all around for you guys!

[@PixelArchitect]

Really appreciate it Zenya. Best of luck with your own pixel art journey!

[@LaCrownedGamer]

I have to say thank you! I have had an idea for a game world with multiple games, but I wanted to draw out each scene rather than using tilesets, but all the resources involved tile sets so I assumed it was not the best option or made the games run slow. But this makes me so happy that I can just transfer my sketches of the world settings into pixel art.... this is such a game changer and again I cannot thank you enough!

[@taketheleep]

This was fascinating and super insightful, especially as someone who is not at all an artist. Very glad the holy algorithm caused me to stumble upon this video.

[@r1pfake521]

As a software developer I wish I could team up with someone who has these skills. Designing systems and writting the code is not a issue for me, but art and level design are always motivation killers for me. Maybe one day I will have enough resources to pay a talented person to do these tasks for me. In the mean time I will use bought assets and try to make some playable scenes.

[@lemonpaperplanes]

Sorry for a reply so late, but potentially teaming up with an artist for game jams could be right up your alley! :)

[@__invictus__8517]

Art just keeps getting better! Nice job, noah.

[@lewismc3d430]

Having the entire map as a poster would be so good!

[@RoseRainblood]

Thank you for taking the time to explain your design process. This video contains a ton of useful information. As someone who is learning pixel art & level design and constantly striving to improve at it, I find it extremely inspiring.

[@MaryArts]

Hey just my reminder to be so exciting when this game comes out for the Switch :D

[@vakuzar]

Just discovered you and you are now my fav indie dev on youtube.

[@0candlestick0]

i was definitely expecting a get rich quick answer that doesn't really help much, but god damn I was so wrong. This is maybe the best mid to late game pixel art technique I've ever seen. just god it looks so good

[@failurexd3954]

yes

[@jodestolo]

Haven't watched yet, but so excited to see another video from your channel!! Your work is always mesmerizing and so inspiring

[@PixelArchitect]

Thank you Jodianne :)

[@elly9704]

you are my inspiration! I started making a harvest moon-esque game on untiy using pixel art after following your journey for a while. i realise that it is what i want to do too. not only is it fun but it is so rewarding when it works and looks nice. thank you so much, Noah. Thank you!!!

[@bilkins9638]

This is amazingly helpful to see the design process, thought, and goals behind an approach to creating artistic solutions. I see so many people focused on the "pixel" aspects of pixel art and miss the "art" portion. You also are able to integrate the artistic approach within the scope of the unique challenge of level design. A+ video.

[@PixelArchitect]

Happy to hear that this was helpful!

[@jesseyules]

Lovely summary. I went through the same learning curve but with art directing 3D spaces. :)

[@benrex777productions9]

That is a very helpful video. I will try to apply it to my game when I come to the respective phase of it.

[@ThePaulineu]

Please keep showing us these kinds of videos showing your process when making art!

[@iridophorium]

Oh! I'm glad to see you back! I hope your break was fullfilling! This is one of my favorite videos now. Extrapolation, thats such a good concept, that I have been using without thinking or knowing what it is. Now that I know about it, and how to apply it with more thought it's goning to be useful for me! And the art is beautiful as always!

[@NSeaBear]

I would like to see a bit more upgrades to the character models. Love the close up full detail shot. Also the sideways walking animation is a bit wack. Already "bought" my copy, so I'm super hyped! Love the recent upgrades!

[@PixelArchitect]

Thanks Brian. We have already hired a new artist to rework the character animations. Hope to show the new character designs soon :)

[@NSeaBear]

@@PixelArchitect thanks for the update. super excited to see progress!

[@Syeno]

Love your process. Definitely learned something, thank you.

[@sunderark]

I am predicting major success on this project. Everything looks amazing.

[@giedreknisevskyte8133]

I’m so excited for this games 😭 I’m so impatient! But at the same time I’m willing to wait for as long as needed for this beautiful game!

[@johanofkarlsson246]

Really inspiring video! And great tip about the "water-bottle"-technique!

[@terrareveene2894]

This came in really handy and re-sparked an old interest of mine, thank you for the video!

[@stephaniepoetri9475]

AAAA IM SO EXCITED FOR THIS TO COME OUT and to see the new character designs and animations!!! I can already see myself loving this game and I'm so glad that your tutorials have led me to finding Chef RPG! cant wait!!

[@michaelmsulit]

This game seems like an absolute gem and ur work is honestly inspiring

[@AemesIsMe]

I’m not a game developer or have any interest in map/house/architectural/etc design, but man this video was so interesting. Also the tip of start small/on one portion and then work from there makes such sense and can be applied to so many activities/jobs. Very cool. I’m very interested to play your game!

[@jeanfouche3904]

First video i watch from your channel + it was very precise and inspiring + i will watch all the videos + i wish you good luck for your projects + ratio.

[@alexandraofiara9815]

I adore pixel art already, but I have to say just from what I've seen from your game so far, your pixel art is absolutely beautiful!! I haven't been this excited for a new pixel art game in a while. Fantastic job so far and it's fascinating to see your work flow :) Keep up the awesome work!

[@kiwipalace]

i love how the exercises and lessons we get from architecture school is applicable in so many creative areas. this reminded me how design philosophy: focusing on the audience's point of view/user experience, and essentially crafting a journey and storyline, is what inspired me to go to architecture school (but in the end it made me realise how much i dislike the construction industry lol)

[@Chimaeramentis]

Also studied architecture. It really is a good perspective for approaching level design. The points in this video are so relatable. Much easier to comprehend when someone understands the user experience side of things and it's influence on design thinking.

[@tetaball9210]

I love how the game looks, it looks absolutely breathtaking, been watching your videos since I first landed your channel, I hope to be able to learn how to make games as beautiful as this

[@livemynd]

Great advice! It makes sense, since a game usually tells a story, and by extension you will have "set pieces" to cover key beats in the experience. Glad to hear about the progress you're making. I even got another copy (in addition to the two in my backer rewards) so my siblings can play it too!

[@twojastara2967]

are you a genius or can this be done by a regular human being? What a wonderful job, much respect

[@Besnardm]

Developing my own game as well and your art and videos are defiantly helping inspire

[@mahokaikai]

wow, this is actually a very interesting thing to think about. the mindset of traditional tilemaps has its applications but this gives a sense of intention/cohesiveness. outstanding advice in this video! thank you!

[@esper212]

Looks genuinely beautiful. Guess I'll start following development of this game now!

[@VaughanDavies]

Seeing actual artists do art is always interesting, mainly because I'm utterly terrible at drawing (my handwriting isn't much better) and I'm friends with artists who are friends with more artists. So much art.

[@icebear4president]

I already love this game so much

[@iamgerer]

Your Pixel arts are literally life for me ❤️

[@kyonas6047]

i always forget drawing the player character when i draw scenes lol it just helps so much bro

[@quandolli]

amazing video as always! so excited to see the next update for chef rpg!

[@godfatheralexander]

Very valuable tips, thank you!

[@junioroakleyjunior]

i know this is most for pixel artists, but as a 3D artist this helped me alot to have a better composition of scenes, thank you !

[@carinav2588]

Absolutely love it! Can't wait for the next video :)

[@niadocraz]

I like how you bring architecture into gamedev :) Also nice method, might come in handy if I ever have to do big environments like these.

[@ieatnoodls]

7:55 I think just using assets looks cool too, it gives it this "Lego"-feeling, thank you for all of the valuable concepts and practices!

[@PixelArchitect]

Good to use a mix. Assets are still great for anything procedurally generated

[@mikep7458]

@@PixelArchitect Im really interested by your approach, but my main concern is the file size of the assets if every 'scene' is hand painted. I've always used the approach when making my games that tileable assets will optimise the game due to reduced file size or do you split the scene down into assets? or is this not really a problem to worry about in the modern day? sorry if you explained this in the video and i missed it

[@DeltathRiylaan]

I'm not an artist but I still found this really compelling. I love how you applied your architectural knowledge into the pixel art of this game.

[@beewo6307]

I googled something and got this which was completely not what I googled for, but boy am I glad it happened. This is really interesting and easy to understand. I will sure as the sun rises wishlist for Chef Rpg

[@micmacha]

Brother your pixel artwork is *mean*. I love it.

[@BramOuwerkerk]

I could watch this guy draw and explain for hours

[@arkangelmerici1170]

Hello!! ✌️ ☺️ Happy to watch a new video from you!

[@nenybuns]

i feel so blessed being able to have a peak into your designs! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing this with us!! Incredible what amazing art you create! It may seem mundane but the lamp post you drew in such a cool angle even is absolutely blowing me away!!!

[@MarushiaDark316]

Amazing video. The "isolated scene" and "extrapolation principle" are really powerful tools that seem obvious in retrospect, but which never really clicked until I heard you explain it so clearly. Consider me subbed and I'll be sharing this with my students and colleagues.

[@ftAnx]

This video felt like watching Spirited Away. Amazing work.

[@ThedGrill]

Oh wow, this is really great to watch :D I love pixelart but never fully emerged into it, since I come from the digital painting area. But watching this during work motivates me to have fun with some buildings and backgrounds in pixelart. Thanks so much for this great explanation.

[@pobi3275]

I dont understand about design/architecture at all and but i just wanna say you make such a beautiful buildings! I wanna live as a character in your game 😆

[@serithinall]

Not in game design and still found this helpful. Thanks lad :)

[@Kemmicals]

You give some pretty good tips and your videos are so enjoyable! If I get enough money I’ll buy the physical art book. Everything in this game is so gorgeous I just kinda need it to stare at the art

[@CobaltContrast]

Wow your voice is very soothing and inspiring. Your art style and genuine openess with building a game is such a breath of fresh air.

[@ClubJollyJolly]

Thank you. I can't do art for the life of me, to the point where I have trouble expressing my problems in words. This video killed one of my nameless demons in under twelve minutes.

[@JadaBstudio]

I've been watching all of your videos and I'm finally caught up and so inspired by your work. Can't wait to play this game(work of art) !

[@jaybugo]

The architecture in your game is probably my favorite aspect of it. I love the attention to detail.

[@monaimmatlaya5873]

good luck on the project and thank you for all the great ideas and advices

[@Bwubdle198]

Your art looks so freaken good you are so talanted!

[@miguelluceroart]

Thanks for making this video! I'm happy to have learned this technique from you!😊