Axolotl Effect

Introduction

The concept of the game revolves around the idea of time traveling where the setting is based off 1800s steampunk, and the levels are based on a fire temple, a water temple, and a twisted dimensional void. 

With this in mind, I designed the UI elements, including the menus, to be steampunk themed, including clocks, watches, gears, metallic finishes, old and aged paper and leather. 

Axolotl Effect was made on a custom engine called Hopes and Dreams, created by students from the computer science majors in Digipen Institute of Technology Singapore. 

HUD Elements

Takeaways

Adding a Z-Axis: Although this is not my first time working in a 3D world, it was still a struggle for me because there are so many additional elements to consider when creating the UI, such as lighting, modeling, and textures. For example, when creating the HUD elements, I had to guarantee that regardless of how bright or dim the camera is, the HUD should be in a color family that is not only consistent with the game's theme, but also clear enough for the player. 

Self-Doubt: Throughout the difficulties and tribulations of this project, I began to doubt myself and my role on the team. I was stressed about other modules, personal issues, and I was constantly wondering, "Am I contributing to the team?" I believe that every designer experiences this period at some point in their careers, and it is up to us to break free from it as soon as possible. With the assistance of my classmates. Close friends, team mates, and, most significantly, my producer provided me with the motivation I needed. I learnt the hard way that self-doubt simply impedes your work, and that constantly believing you are not good enough will never make you good enough. As a result, I made the decision to never be a burden to my team, to prioritize my mental health, and to persevere even when things were challenging.