Navigating the Realm of 2D Art for Mobile Games: A Guide for Non-Artists
As a non-artist, the world of creating 2D art for mobile games can seem daunting. Many wonder if it's possible to learn on their own, especially when faced with the challenge of creating sleek, high-quality artwork. In this article, we will explore the path to learning 2D art and provide advice for non-artists looking to create their own mobile game graphics.
The Easiest Way: Hire an Artist
Quite often, the most straightforward solution is to simply hire an artist. This option is especially viable if you are looking for a specific style, such as a retro aesthetic or a professional level of detail. However, it's important to communicate your vision clearly to ensure that the results meet your expectations. Choosing the right artist can be a matter of both budget and preference, but it can often save you time and frustration.
Starting Your Learning Journey
While hiring an artist is a viable option, many non-artists still want to embark on the learning journey themselves. Here are some steps to get started:
1. Choose the Right Tools
Learning 2D art starts with the right tools. Two of the most popular and user-friendly graphic software options are:
Inkscape (Vector Program): An open-source vector graphics editor that allows you to create scalable graphics. GIMP (Raster Program): A free, open-source raster graphics editor similar to Adobe Photoshop.Both programs have extensive documentation and online tutorials available for beginners. Many users find them to be excellent starting points for diving into digital art.
2. Learn Basic Color Theory
Understanding color theory is crucial for creating appealing and effective 2D art. Some key concepts to master include:
Color harmony Desaturate and saturate colors Color contrasts (e.g., complementary, analogous, etc.)Online courses and books on color theory can provide a solid foundation for understanding these concepts, making it easier to apply them in your work. Websites like Color Theory and Oxford University Press are great places to start.
3. Improve Your Drawing Skills
If you're new to drawing, improving your skills can be a steep learning curve. However, there are plenty of online resources available to help you:
YouTube Tutorials: Channels like Sean Moon and AbstractArtTutorials offer step-by-step lessons on various drawing techniques. Online Courses: Websites like Skillshare and Udemy have a range of courses tailored for beginners. Books: Look for titles like How to Draw Comics the Easy Way by Peter Liese or Learn to Draw 3D by Michael Mattesi.Improving your drawing skills will make it easier to create aesthetically pleasing and functional artwork for your mobile games.
4. Understand Basics of Perspective
Even for 2D art, understanding basic perspective principles can greatly enhance the realism and depth of your designs. Here are some key concepts to focus on:
One-point perspective: Used for objects that recede towards a single vanishing point. Two-point perspective: Used for objects that recede towards two vanishing points. Three-point perspective: Used for objects that slope upwards or look down.These techniques can be applied to give your 2D art a more dynamic and engaging appearance. Resources like Frankie Weber on YouTube can provide comprehensive coverage of these topics.
5. Stay Updated with Current Design Trends
To ensure your artwork remains relevant, it's essential to stay updated with current design trends. Popular art styles for mobile games include:
Retro: Inspired by classic games from the 80s and 90s. Flat design: Minimalistic with a focus on simplicity and clean lines. Spriting: Creating artwork with a limited color palette that can be easily reused.Following blogs and social media accounts that focus on game design and art can help you stay informed about the latest trends and techniques. Websites like Gamasutra and Medium’s Illustration section are great resources.
Conclusion
While creating 2D art for mobile games can be challenging, especially for non-artists, it is entirely possible with the right tools, knowledge, and practice. The journey might seem daunting at first, but with persistence and dedication, you can create stunning artwork that brings your mobile game to life. Whether you choose to hire an artist or learn on your own, the key is to start small, build on your skills, and continuously refine your approach.