REVIVING THE GOTHIC LEGACY: DAMNATION BOARD GAME CASE STUDY
INTRODUCTION:
Immersing myself in the eerie world of Damnation, a horror board game resurrected from the cult classic The Gothic Game, was a hauntingly delightful experience. Taking the reins of the project, I found joy in crafting a new branding system, developing marketing assets, and creating captivating mockups that showcased the macabre beauty of the game. The collaborative effort with artists HUE TEO and ANCA ALBU resulted in an art style that promises years of enjoyment.
HISTORY OF THE GOTHIC GAME:
Damnation pays homage to its predecessor, The Gothic Game, which emerged in 1966 from the creative minds of Robert Wynne Simmons and Nigel Andrews. The game's roots trace back to a lazy weekend in Surrey, England, with its debut taking place later that year in the basement of an Italian convent in Assisi. Inspired by games like Cluedo and Dungeons and Dragons, The Gothic Game featured a board resembling a crumbling castle, providing a labyrinthine backdrop for players.
Damnation, a modernized rendition, maintains the essence of its forebear, transporting players to Dracula's Castle in a Victorian-era battle royale. This elimination-style game adds a contemporary twist to the 1992 classic, offering a faster-paced journey through perilous environments where fortunes can change in an instant.
CONCEPTUALIZATION:
Blackletter Games approached me to design the long scroll for Damnation's Kickstarter launch. In the process, we undertook a comprehensive redesign of Damnation's identity assets. The prior brand identity was woefully outdated, demanding a fresh approach to align with the game's revitalized aesthetics. My focus was on creating an advertising design that complemented the illustrations, enhancing the overall flow of the game's content.
The characters, actions, and play style of Damnation set it apart, making it a truly unique gaming experience. The successful collaboration with Blackletter Games has fueled my enthusiasm for future projects of similar ilk.
DESIGN ELEMENTS:
1. Art and Illustrations: Collaborating with talented artists, HUE TEO and ANCA ALBU, allowed us to capture the eerie atmosphere of Dracula's Castle. The detailed and immersive artwork became a cornerstone of Damnation's visual appeal.
2. Modernization of Gameplay: While preserving the elimination-style gameplay, Damnation introduced modern mechanics to enhance the overall gaming experience. This included strategic elements, immersive storytelling, and dynamic challenges to keep players engaged.
3. Marketing Assets: The creation of marketing assets involved showcasing Damnation's unique features, captivating visuals, and the promise of an exhilarating board game experience. Social media teasers, trailers, and promotional materials were carefully curated to build anticipation.
OUTCOME:
The reinvigorated Damnation graphic identity successfully marries the macabre with modernity. The brand redesign ensures that Damnation stands out in the gaming landscape, inviting players into a world of Victorian-era horror with a contemporary twist. The seamless integration of illustrations, branding, and advertising design enhances the overall experience, promising years of enjoyment for players.
CONCLUSION:
Damnation's resurrection not only pays homage to The Gothic Game but also breathes new life into the horror board game genre. The revamped identity aligns seamlessly with the game's thematic elements, promising a lasting legacy in the gaming world. I look forward to more ventures that combine creativity, collaboration, and a passion for storytelling in the realm of board games.
