Artist Simulator

An early prototype designed in consultation with working artists and user testing.
The opening scene from Artist Simulator as the player approaches their printing studio through a door to their left, the comment book in front of them and their gallery through a door ahead.

Artist Simulator gives players the virtual tools to explore traditional art mediums and create new works of art. Then provides a gallery for players and artists to display their work in and receive comments back.


Project Breakdown

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Developed as an early part of my Masters degree with Falmouth University’s Games Academy, Artist Simulator was initially envisioned as a way to support traditional artists who lack a local art gallery with a virtual exhibition space.

Assorted expert research findings.

This soon grew into a simulation game that not only provides a space for artists but also engages players with traditional art forms through interactive tools and tutorialisation.

Research takeaways synthesised into pillars for game development.

Printmaking was the first medium approached for the Artist Simulator, it’s a technical medium with multiple steps from mark making to registration. The prototype covers the interactive creation of an linocut print that is then displayed within a gallery.

An overview of the printing process from carving to registration.

The comments system allows players to leave reviews of art and exhibitions for other players and the artist. A moderation system will be employed, first to automatically flag any profanity and then for the artist to choose what comments remain public in their gallery space.

The comment screen, where players view and post comments.

Accessibility options were added through testing to enable access for older players and traditional artists who may be less familiar with games and computers.

The gallery presented with click-to-move accessible controls.

Potential next steps for the project would include:

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An overview of the user journey of the game and next steps for development.
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