Champions Online Developer Diary

A new Champions Online developer diary is online over at IGN, this time with art lead Chris Chamberlain telling us about what had to be done to create the game’s visual style.

When we started working on Champions Online, we wanted to quite literally bring a comic book to life… er, to a simulated, digital un-life, anyway. That lofty goal meant shying away from realistic graphics and replacing them with the styles and staples of comic-dom. Many fans are excited about the look, while some are saddened by cel-shading. We are proud, at least — proud of where we wound up and proud of the unique look we have achieved.

To expand upon that look, the character art team is currently attacking our incredibly in-depth character creator with the fury of raging Vikings. “Pillage” and “blood oath” are frequently used words ’round these parts. We are even now battling our way through deadlines and ruthlessly carving in more options than most folks dream of. We’re talking about customization options far greater and more in-depth than even we thought possible.

Giant anime suits of armor? Check! Steampunk? Check! Mystical wizard cowls and cloaks? Check! Want to completely reform and deform a face or body? No problem. Our efforts now will allow users to create just about any kind of comic villain or hero and all with one easy-to-use tool.