In the previous episode we delved into one of the game's alluring features: pixel art animation. This time, we’re spotlighting the pixel art itself and hearing more from Hafhaf-oden ( https://twitter.com/ohanhan ), the graphic designer of Urban Myth Dissolution Center.
Although we initially planned to include a photo of him for the interview segment, our interviewee felt a bit shy about it. So, we've opted for a pixel art rendition instead. Even in pixel art form, the attention to detail is evident, capturing the essence of his character!
— — Q: Last time, we briefly discussed the pixel art animation within the game. However, we'd love to hear more about what makes the pixel art of
'Urban Myth Dissolution Center' so captivating. Could you please share with us, once again, the unique appeal of the game's pixel art style?
Hafhaf-oden： First, I believe one key aspect is the relatively low resolution. I mentioned in the previous interview that the initial sketches were drawn by illustrator Kikkyawa
( https://twitter.com/OvercomePeanuts ). She draws them in full HD, with a width of 1920px. When converting to the actual pixel art form, they are drawn at 240px and then enlarged eight times before returning to the original size.
ーー Q: Is there any particular reason for this approach?
Hafhaf-oden: I believe when it comes to pixel art, stretching one pixel as much as possible enhances its strength and allows it to be more expressive. I've been following this philosophy in my work because there's a delicate balance between wanting to enlarge each pixel for better expression
and avoiding over-enlargement, which could compromise the overall representation. With these in mind, I believe this size strikes the best balance.
ーーQ: This attention to detail has become one of Urban Myth Dissolution Center's major charms.
Hafhaf-oden: I would very much be pleased if so! While I could create more detailed pixel art or illustrations closer to the photos, I think using the actual photographs might be better. However, I firmly believe that the strength of pixel art lies in the amount of information condensed into each pixel, which makes it interesting.
ーー Q: What do you find most appealing about pixel art?
Hafhaf-oden: I kind of already touched on it earlier, but it's the idea that what may seem like just a "dot" actually contains more information than meets the eye. A mere black dot can become hair or an eye, and adding gray can depict light and shadow. These fascinating charms are why I continue to create pieces with pixel art.
ーー Q: You mentioned you are self-taught and haven't undergone any formal training in pixel art. Is it something anyone can pick up and do?
Hafhaf-oden: Yes, that's right. I've been drawing by watching others, so I haven't had proper training. While I do think having a sense of artistry certainly helps to some extent. However, I think it's easier to start by placing dots on a 16x16 grid than being handed paper and a pencil and being told to draw. At least in my opinion, what do you think? (laughs)
I don't find illustrating under restrictions or limitations particularly too challenging, but as you progress to advanced levels, those limitations can become more constricting. At first, it may feel manageable, but as you advance, it can start to feel restrictive. You find yourself unable to do more things. However, I find the challenge very intriguing.
ーー Q: Oh sort of like the concept of "Shu-ha-ri," isn't it? (the stages of learning and mastery. 'Shu' learning the fundamentals. 'Ha' to break away from the rigid forms and experiment. And 'Ri' is when you've mastered the art and can create your unique style.)
Hafhaf-oden：Yeah in sense. I see it more like a to when writing Haiku poetry. There are rules about the number of characters and seasonal defining words that can be used within it. Yet everyone puts their heart and soul into crafting something beautiful within those constraints. If those rules and constraints were a bit more flexible, like a “Senryu” style poetry. I believe it would be easier for more people to pick up and give pixel art a shot if they treat it more like “Senryu than Haiku”.
(To be continued in Inside the Myth vol.4)