by MarshalNey on Sun Aug 21, 2011 1:24 am
Ughhh, I wish I was worth a damn when it comes to graphics advice... this is probably my most-anticipated map in the Foundry right now, and I feel that I can offer little other than encouragement. Don't despair, RB, although I may not be commenting, I'm certainly following along.
The makeover is a lot more readable than the grafitti version, but I guess as everyone else is observing, it is a bit plain. Victor is right that the Central City skyline is the most appealing part of the map (to me anyway).
The thing is, perhaps I can't give specific computer graphics advice, but I think the map is still searching for a thematic style, and I might be able to help in that regard...
Right now, you've got the famous buildings, the Liberty Bell, suspension bridges and the underdog figure. Except for the last, there's a common element there of city architecture, which if you really ran with it might work out well.
However, that last element, the Underdog with upraised arms, intrigues me the most. What if the map themed itself around the people of Philly rather than the monuments and buildings? Helix mentioned an angry New Jerseyian instead of the Liberty Bell, and while that may be a little strange, maybe a gruff New Jersey toll keeper would fit? The 'people' theme doesn't have to be fun-loving, though, it could be serious too- using famous people born in the various bonus areas of the map as a background instead of a building, for instance.
I guess, to me the Underdog bonus is what makes this map really special and unique, and at its heart that idea is about people. I think it could be nice to see the graphics built around that idea.
-- Marshal Ney