How to achieve a cartoony styled game?

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#1

Hello, I am working on a game that targets audiences below 11 or 10.

And I need to have the game Cartoony Styled. Now what makes a game feel cartoony or look cartoony. I cant seem to figure it out.

I have tried googling for cartoony designs but they are way to “cartoony”, I dont want it that cartoony.

Thanks in advance.

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#2

Low poly, rounded, and bright colors would likely make a game seem cartoony. Consider checking out some front page cartoony games for inspiration!

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#3

A Cartoon style can mean a lot of things, but some of the basic principles are:

  1. Bold outlines
  2. A low-resolution, simple style
  3. Bright Colors on the scenery that contrast with the characters

You can do these with different ways,

a) You can create outlines by using slightly larger MeshParts that have flipped Normals to the mesh you are using,
b) Contrasting colors that are bright and fun, but remember to acknowledge the emotion your game is trying to convey
c) Low-resolution and Simple, this is where you want every part you insert to count, make the most out of your limitations.

EDIT By simple style I mean that the buildings aren’t generally complex in details and design. This isn’t an MC Escher house, this is a box with triangles for a roof.

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#4

Don’t use materials, just plastic

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#5

Cartoony can be a difficult theme to accomplish, but some ideas that might help:

  • Low-Poly
  • Smooth Plastic(Think of like a childrens toy, it’s always shiny smooth plastic.)
  • Warped and funky looking buildings or decor(For example, a building that tilts to the right.)
  • Bright colors–pastel colors will work too
  • If you were to add animals or humans–big eyes(Mickey Mouse for example)
  • Themes that would be familiar to children

The important thing about replicating a cartoonish style is using references and inspiration from other games and media. Personally, I think a good reference for a cartoonish style is ToonTown. It has bright colors and funky characters, and the buildings are a good reference to use!

Hope this helps.

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