Boy do games look good these days, close to the real thing, graphics that make you stop what your doing in the game just to look at all it’s glory. But often we see the same tricks being used that make each game more visually impressive. Here are 7 graphics tricks that game makers use that we love, despite being cheap.
Rain
Examples: Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, Heavy Rain
Rain is a horrible thing; it makes us cold, wet, and often we run to our destination, making us tired and out of breath. But in a video game, the rainier the better; rain looks good, adds drama, and we don’t have to worry about our characters getting a cold, thus reducing their ass-kicking performance.
Night Time
Examples: Need for Speed, Outlast
It’s dark, it’s scary (not Need for Speed obviously), it hides most of the map, and any scenery becomes irrelevant because we can’t see it. Usually mixed with the rain, we don’t mind as long as it has a purpose, such as adding drama or helping with stealth missions.
Futuristic Setting
Examples: Killzone, Halo, Mirror’s Edge
Boy, does that building look shiny, also extremely white. But what has more detail? A futuristic building or an old, run-down one? Any futuristic game doesn’t have to worry about the detail of a brick or cobweb, as long as it’s shiny, we don’t care.
Old Characters
Examples: Solid Snake (kind of), Heihachi (kind of)
Look how detailed that baby is? You never hear that when playing a video game. An older person, though, you immediately notice how detailed his face is – each wrinkle, each freckle. It can also add more depth to a character, such as mystery or wisdom, usually making them more likable.
Sunset
Examples: Journey, Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture
How many times have you stopped what you’re doing in a game and looked at a lovely sunset? Looking at a lovely sunset while rotating the camera 360 degrees? I sure have, and I don’t mind; the small things can help make a great game.
Attire
Examples: Assassin’s Creed, Final Fantasy
Who dresses like that? Sure looks good though. Lead characters usually wear a lot of clothes, regardless of the weather. Assassin’s Creed games always have characters with layers of clothes, including a long hooded coat, rich in detail. It’s an easy trick but better than playing a naked guy, such as Raiden in Metal Gear Solid 2.
Hair
Examples: Final Fantasy, Metal Gear Solid (lose the man bun Snake)
How much gel does Cloud use in Final Fantasy 7? Would fighting giant monsters be easier with less hair? Most likely, but would Cloud be as memorable without the hair? Probably not.
And there you go – 7 Cheap graphic tricks that we love. Thanks for reading. Like, share, and feel free to comment if you think I’ve missed something. Also, feel free to follow me on Twitter X @rhysbritton.
