Apple Interactive Concept: Game Research 2

GemCraft (Chapter 0)

GemCraft is a tower defence game for the computer made by gameInABottle.com. It is based in a fantasy medieval world where the aim is to search for the "Gem of Eternity". The player is given few reasons what is so powerful about the gem, but no other reason as to why to get it. This information is given in atmospheric scenes relating to the storyline.

This is a scene in the first part of the storyline in GemCraft.

The imagery is simple, yet dark and sinister, showing clearly what it is within a potentially small space. The atmosphere is enhanced by the lack of colour in the imagery. The textures on the background is basic yet accompany the overall theme of the game.

Loading bar for GemCraft.

While the game is loading an animation is played with a figure moving from right to left on the screen. This frequently shifts out of focus and when the figure reappears it distorted from it's original form giving a very eery feel to the game before it even starts.

The skills menu within GemCraft.

I like the simple design of the different skills available for the game. Each representing a positive aspect which the player can unlock. All have the same backgrounds, with black used for the icon. To signify that a skill is available the background is a lighter colour.
  

While a tower defence game is not what I wish to design, the theme and atmosphere of this game is possibly how I want my game to feel like. The stark cold and dangerous colours mixed with black also add danger and a potential threat, which can be relevant to part of my design.