Want to tap into the potential of the isometric perspective and create unique isometric games? In this How to Create an Isometric Game guide, we will explore the development process, from covering the fundamentals to niche strategies to hone your skills as a developer.
The isometric style is prevalent in the gaming industry. This is because isometric video games offer a cozy and wholesome vibe that is well-received by gamers. But what are isometric games? In simple terms, these are games that look and feel three-dimensional but are actually not.
These games utilize a flat picture that makes objects and environments look 3D. Moreover, Isometric games also utilize camera positioning, angles, and grids to give a three-dimensional fee. Let’s explore the world of isometric-style video games, how to develop them, and why it is a beneficial path for some developers.
The isometric perspective basically makes 2D objects look and feel like 3D. This is achieved by adjusting the camera angle at which you see the art. It adds a level of depth and makes games look visually appealing.
This technique utilizes grid distortions and coordinates to achieve a level of depth that makes game visuals more eye-catching. Moreover, all three axes (x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis) are at equal 120 degrees, making it perfect for game development.
In fact, parallax projection in retro 2D platformers can also qualify as isometric video games.
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While you may think that isometric video games are things of the past, they are quite prevalent events today. In fact, many top games also fit the category of isometric game art style. Here are some popular examples that are isometric in nature:
Developed by SuperCell, Clash of Clans is one of the most popular mobile games of the last decade. I remember creating clans and fighting in clan wars with my brothers and friends. It is an online multiplayer game where you have to create a village, build establishments, train troops, and raid other players’ villages.
Developed by SuperGiant Games, Hades is a popular game that won many awards for its gameplay and art style. It won the Best Game, Artistic Achievement, Game Design, and Narrative award at the 17th British Academy Game Awards. While Hades looks like an isometric perspective, it is actually a dimetric projection.
Developed by PopCap Games, the Plants vs Zombies franchise is a popular isometric video game with a fun concept. In the game, players are tasked with defending the town against zombies. However, instead of traditional weapons, players have to use weaponized plants like pea shooters and Venus fly traps to kill zombies. Sounds absurd but it is actually a lot due to its engaging gameplay and isometric visuals.
Divinity is also a popular isometric video game that received a lot of positive reviews and nominations for its gameplay. Developed by Larian Studios, it is an RPG game with turn-based combat played from an isometric perspective. In fact, it is one of the few games to receive a 10/10 rating from GameSpot.
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While isometric video games are quite appealing, creating them comes with its fair share of challenges. For instance, developers have to master the 45-degree angle for a clean 3D look. It also requires combining art, design, and programming. Follow this guide to create interesting characters that move about in an unchanging environment.
First and foremost, define the genre of the game. Isometric video games are present across various genres. From Mario to Clash of Clans, there are a lot of isometric games popular in the industry. Next, sketch the game mechanics and design the game world including the levels, story, and characters.
Since this is the planning stage, you should also choose a powerful game engine to facilitate the development process. Game engines like Unity, Godot, or Phaser are great for 2D frameworks.
Now comes the technical part. Before you can create isometric games, it is essential to understand the isometric grid. Typically, it is a 2:1 or 30-degree angle grid. This will help you set up an isometric grid and create a tilemap using isometric tiles (diamonds instead of squares).
Use tools like Tiled or custom-made assets in Photoshop or Blender for isometric perspective. All of these assets must be compatible with the isometric projection.
Isometric graphics are achieved through parallax projection and are also known as 2.5 dimensional. By using this technique, designers can effectively portray 2D art as 3D. Moreover, isometric video games also require low processing power as systems do not have to render and scale 3D graphics constantly. However, isometric game art does come with some drawbacks.
For starters, pre-rendered isometric graphics can have display and graphics issues. This is because 2D graphics need to be re-rendered to adapt to modern display resolutions and aspect ratios.
After creating a grid structure, you have to implement the core systems. This includes elements like player movements. Convert screen clicks or button inputs into isometric coordinates to enable movement in the 2.5D environment.
Also, fill the game world by placing objects and coding the collision detection mechanic. Use a 2D array or tilemap system for managing the world. While the camera should be set at an isometric angle, you can change its logic to either lock in place or follow the player around.
Code the gameplay mechanics including:
Interaction: Pickups, talking to NPCs, building, etc.
Combat or tasks: This depends on your game genre.
AI Behavior: For enemies, NPCs, or environment reactions.
UI and Menus: Inventory, health bar, minimap, etc.
Refine the gameplay mechanics by adding transitions, animations, particle systems, and game sound. This will optimize the gaming experience and make your isometric video game more appealing to users.
Conduct thorough quality analysis by running various tests like pathfinding, object clipping, and layering issues. After you have ironed out all the loose ends, you are ready to export the game and publish it.
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While there are several challenges in isometric art design, it is crucial to maintain the quality of isometric tiles to ensure a seamless gaming experience. Here are some strategies to help you create high-quality isometric perspective video games.
This comes in handy when you are doing micro-adjustments to your isometric art. Selecting an orthographic view removes the perspective and provides a 2D representation of a 3D object, giving you a much better view of the art. Make sure to check the box and free roam the camera a bit in orthographic view to notice any errors in art.
Lighting also plays a huge part in isometric video games and there are various ways to handle it. For starters, you can add lighting through the 3D stage. This calculates shadow and light information and provides great results.
Secondly, you can use dynamic lights or tints/shade gradation to add depth to the game world. You can also implement lighting through the game engine itself.
One mistake that most developers often make in isometric games is a lack of optimization. When working with isometric games, make sure to focus on texture optimization. For example, a room’s floor texture often goes unnoticed due to the various other elements in the room. If you are using large tiles, the grain texture will be visible. Make sure to scale it down for a more clean look.
Similarly, it is crucial to manage textures by optimizing the detail levels. This ensures a more immersive gaming experience. With these strategies, you can create beautiful game worlds that offer the same level of quality from top to bottom.
Use advanced techniques like scaling and altering the shapes of items to modify their designs. This reduces transparency and offers objects a unique look. By adding specific variations to the game world, you can create a visually appealing and engaging game world that captivates players.
Creating an isometric game is both a technical and artistic journey. For video game developers, mastering grid layouts and isometric projections to optimizing textures and lighting plays a crucial role in bringing a 2.5D world to life. Isometric games not only offer a unique visual experience but also provide developers with a flexible canvas to explore creativity without the heavy demands of full 3D rendering. Whether you’re building a strategy game, an RPG, or a casual puzzle game, the isometric perspective can elevate your game’s aesthetic and engagement. With the right tools, planning, and attention to detail, video game developers can craft immersive game worlds that resonate with players and stand out in the gaming landscape.
Ans. Several game engines are used to create isometric games. Unity and Unreal Engine are two of the most common engines for isometric game development as they offer seamless flexibility. However, you can also use other game engines like Phaser or Godot to develop isometric perspective games.
Ans. Clash of Clans, Plants vs Zombies, Hades, Baldur’s Gate 3, and Age of Kings are some of the most popular isometric games. In fact, Baldur’s Gate 3 was also the Game of The Year in 2023.
Ans. None, isometric games are neither 2D or 3D. While they may look and feel like 3D, they are in fact 2.5D as they serve as the bridge between 3D and 3D. These games feature 3D graphics in a 2D perspective to create a sense of depth.
