The broad concept of my display is to create the appearance of my game being played on an original PlayStation including a CRT TV to be used as a display. Custom box art will be designed for a PlayStation game case to support the retro appearance of the display, while also providing promotional and brand identity material. Ideally, an original PlayStation controller will also be used via an adapter, but this is subject to testing as one has only just been purchased for this event. If an original controller is not plausible, a modern controller will be used. The game will be played on my personal laptop to avoid potential complications in setting up the game on a new system, as well as provide adaptability in where and how my display can be set up. I can also supply my own CRT that is tested and functioning with my laptop via a HDMI to S-Video adapter, or use the CRT available from the staff office. My own CRT is compact and able to fit on a desk, while the course CRT is much larger and may provide a more stand-out display. If I were able to also use the office bean bags alongside the CRT, the display would potentially be much more enticing for attendees to try out my game in a relaxing and comfortable manner. This will be subject to further testing and deliberation. While there is a control scheme within the game, a permanently visible control scheme will need to be provided in case of attendees joining mid session. This will be included alongside a description of the project and stylised to match the display. In addition to the game itself, other brand and promotional material will be provided. A linktree QR code will be available for accessing my contact information, portfolio in the form of an Art Station and itch.io profile and my dissertation containing the research and development relevant to this project. . Business cards will be created using the template below. On my laptop screen or an available monitor, a video will be showcasing the creation process of this project, as well as content from past projects.
A mock-up of what my display could look like if using my own CRT. A showcase video would be displayed on top.
Business Card Mock Up
Box Art Mock Up
Duo Teikoku follows the story of a nameless prisoner trapped in a rift between empires. They find themselves at the edge of an accursed chasm separating the Occiden empire of the west, and the Azuma empire of the east who have met at this valley and persist in eternal stalemate. There is no escape for the victims of this omnipotent war as fortifications spread vast over the mountains and valleys of the land. However, these empires may fall victim to their hubris as the desecration of this land may lead to their downfall. Our protagonist must use any means necessary to gain their freedom or take down their all-powerful captors. Along the way they will discover the secrets of the empires, the land, and its peoples - perhaps there is more to this world than meets the eye.
This demo consists of the introductory section of Duo Teikoku, showcasing the visual style, environment, and select mechanics. The wider game concept focuses on self-led non-linear navigation where the player must obtain tools and abilities to unlock new paths. The world will be one sprawling interconnected three dimensional maze, ranging from heavenly mountaintops to abyssal dungeons. Throughout the land will be many NPCs who can assist the player, provide quests, or act as key characters in one of Duo Teikoku’s multiple story routes. Every model, texture and mechanic seen in this project has been created specifically for Duo Teikoku.
This project a continuation of the research paper “Learning From Nostalgia: A Rose-Tinted View of Retro Videogame Design” which explored the benefits, implementation and practice of retro video game design. Duo Teikoku is a rose-tinted view of 90s PlayStation games, taking on aesthetic cues and technical limitations where beneficial, but taking liberties where necessary. The game also takes design inspiration from games of the past, including reviving the Metroidvania genre in a 3D format and taking elements from Zelda dungeons and Dark Souls world design. Additionally, the creator’s own design philosophy of player anutonomy and a focus on gameplay and immersion are represented throughout the design and concept.
Jake Knott | Instagram | Linktree
Below is the one drive link to my work in progress degree show plan. As of this submission, it is incomplete awaiting further confirmation on whether I will be using the staff CRT.