2018 February

Can I do this?

Since the game should be based on miniatures, I first had to find out whether I was able to build a reasonably appealing miniature myself. Because of my studies at the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg I have some experience with creating 3D characters for movies, but not with making miniatures. So I had to learn a program that I hated until then: ZBrush. Spoiler Alarm: Well, as I write these lines, I think ZBrush is the best thing since sliced bread. What can change in a year is absolutely fantastic.

I was very satisfied with my first result. It is clear to me that every miniature I build has to be reworked several times, because in digital space everything works, but in real space, where this miniature has to be touched and moved over a playing field, other rules apply.

I wanted to create miniatures which are easily readable and not plastered with details. I wanted miniatures that seem more like statues that can be found in ancient temples. I don't know if I reached this goal with all of them yet, but not everything has to be perfect the first time, right?

THE THEME OF THE GAME

I had decided to make this game a war of hell against heaven. Between heaven and hell is the pit that separates the two realms. I used the Christian "P" symbol and the upside down cross to write the name "THE PIT". I thought the name would go very well with what the game is supposed to be at the end.

BUILDING SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

Since it is now also about angels, I had to find out whether I am also able to build a graceful figure, since at least some of the models should remind of figures found in churches, for example.

I have looked at pictures of old masters and reconstructed what I have seen in 3D. Obviously I was also able to show this necessary grace. At this point I have gained the confidence in myself to build every imaginable figure I have in mind.
Once I have gained this trust and accept "anything is possible", I try something that seems absolutely impossible to me to test my limits.

I wanted to create a huge angel who would pay my little "test angels" to fight. And well…

… I don’t know how, but I managed that as well. The wings have been a real challenge. I wanted them feel "handmade" so I placed every feather by hand for a full day.