Stylized Valley // Planet Wisp

Planet Wisp // From Sonic Colors

This project is divided into two main sections: the cave and its outer surroundings.

My primary objective was to offer a modern interpretation of Planet Wisp from Sonic Colors. Unlike the original levels, which predominantly featured factory settings, I focused more on the naturalistic aspects. I tried to portray a recurring theme in Sonic games: the detrimental impact of industrialization on nature.

As you progress through the level, you will encounter some signs of deforestation and pollution, symbolizing the start of industrial development. The once crystalline waters are now purple from chemicals, trees are cut down, and metallic barriers obstruct the flow of streams within the cave. This encapsulates the narrative I brought to this project.

My Artstation : artstation.com/lorenzopace

Cave / Valley Music by: FILMharmonic Orchestra 

Details Music by: Kenichi Tokoi

References for this project were primarily drawn from Sonic Generations rather than the original levels in Sonic Colors, as I favored the lighter tones present in Sonic Generations. Additionally, inspiration was taken from the opening cinematic, particularly for the design of rocks and trees.

Water Material Breakdown: This material allows the user to set two independent water ripples, including the wavelength, number, opacity, velocity, water color, and murkiness. I mainly used this for ponds and pipes.

Ground Material Breakdown: This material has undergone several iterations during development as I discovered better alternatives for certain features. Essentially, it allows users to select from four layers, and based on the height angle, it automatically generates cliffs. The key components of this material are the two sets of variations I created to prevent tiling issues in distant terrain. I also developed a feature for utilizing nanite displacement on the ground, but I didn't fully implement it because I didn't see significant improvement. Therefore, I decided to delete it to save memory.

Stylized Valley

This project marks a significant milestone in my journey, representing a substantial leap in my skill set. Picture a tranquil valley, where the home of an old local retired hero stands by the waters of a small lake.

My aim was simple: to give the scene a sense of tranquility, inviting the audience to rest from the more fast paced compositions.

As you wander through this idyllic setting, you'll encounter some objects from everyday life. Chairs, amphorae, crops and many more stand there, while a rustic table adorned with pottery evokes a sense of comfort. An iron axe, stuck against a wood log, waits for the hands of its owner to resume his craft.

An arrow adorning the door serves as a reminder of the hero's past adventure, now relegated to the annals of memory. Indeed, the retired hero seems happy to embrace the simplicity of his present existence, finding relief in the gentle rhythm of life and in the occasional dive into the cool waters of the lake.

In creating this scene, I aimed not just to create a visual harmony, but also to evoke a sense of nostalgia and tranquility, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and perhaps, even find a moment of peace from the fast paced lives we all have.