Detailed RPG Character Maker TutorialThis tutorial demonstrates a method
on how to create character templates
that can be used to produce more
different characters.
The use of templates is very common
to any graphic developers when they
need the production to be more fast
and convenient. especially in RPG development,
artists needs a template to work on so
they can produce more graphics resource
for the game.
In this demonstration i will make a
64x64 character template and ofcourse
make a character out of it.
(note: i used graphics gale graphics program
for this because it supports layers which is very
useful.)
first, i used a circle tool for the head (i always
start at the head) find a suitable place where to place
the head. RPG characters commonly have bigger rounded
heads so make your character's head bigger too.
then, a rectangle to serve as the body.
you can add more rectangles for legs and arms if
you want. These shapes are just your guides to
making better body proportion
next, *add a new layer and lower the opacity of the
first layer to the point that its still visible.
Then work on the newer layer by tracing the
body shapes (first layer). It is where you design
the actual template by giving it a nice body proportion
details.
*=requires a graphics program that supports layers
next, you have the lineart of the body template. now,
edit some parts you want to improve and finally fill it
with skin tone color and apply proper shadings.
OK, were done with the template!
You can make characters out of it now.
it is better to stop and think for a while for a
nice possible character and then for better results,
sketch your custom character on paper so you can
have reference.
(note: don't forget to save your template into a file)
OK, to finally conclude this demo i will show how
i make a character out of that template.
i will try to make Ken from 'Street Fighter' game
first, i copied the template to another layer.
then i begin to draw the cloth on top of its
body.
in applying clothes over the body, you wont need
to follow the body shape of the template. think of it
like this:
-Is Ken's apparel fitted or not? answer is 'NO'
so you better make his cloth a bit baggy, in this
case you wont need to follow the templates outlines
instead add a pixel or two for his cloth width span.
ofcourse, if there is something you feel look wrong,
dont hesitate to adjust and modify it.
OK, now i applied final touches to the character
i added shiny specular on his hair and some parts
on his body.
Cool aint it?. actually the side view character can be worked out
from the same method.
but this time you need to make the body shape appear like
it is facing sideways, in other words you should adjust the thickness
of the rectangle to be thinner.
then, proceed on making the template outlines or lineart
with the same method applied from the front view
continue further and then
Voila! we have a Ken looking sideways
OK, that concludes this simple tutorial
i hope you find this a bit helpful for your
spriting lessons.
Watch out for more Pixel Tutorials coming soon!
Regards,
teej
