Hello! This is J38UK; the 2D/3D Lead for Overmare Studios. We know it's been a while since we’ve written up a blog post, however we are at the stage in development where we can talk more about what you can expect to see in Wave 6 of Ashes of Equestria, our goals for this wave and our plans for future waves. So let's get stuck in shall we?
Wave 6 Changes
When last we spoke of Wave 6 there were plans to continue revamping and overhauling our map alongside our quest and dialogue systems. However, multiple Unity version updates, notable technical debt and other factors have left our map pretty broken. In addition, a review in the story and various quests made us realize our map would not meet our standards going forward. However, to completely make a new map would take some time and likely delay Wave 6 even more.
Thus the decision was two fold; Work started on making a new map layout that fit our main story and quests more, encouraging better flow of map exploration, both on a concept stage and also within Unity itself.
At the same time, the rest of the team focused on a new smaller map for Wave 6. The Wave 6 map incorporates some of the aesthetics, look and tone we have planned for the new main map in a more condensed form, while showing off a few quests and NPCs you can interact and talk to. The plan is for much of the work done for this Wave 6 map to be reused in the new main map proper.
A lot of progress has been made so far for Wave 6 in terms of development, asset creation and map design. However, much more still needs to be done in fleshing out the rest of the terrain, as well as detailing of locations and Points of Interests, plus bug testing and other features.
What will Wave 6 be when completed? A smaller but detailed map that allows you to enjoy a selection of quests you can expect to see in the new map main in later waves, alongside other improvements to the game in general that we hope will improve the overall experience of Ashes of Equestria. We hope to go into more detail about Wave 6 and its features as development continues.
We need your help! (Aka Recruitment)
Of course, map making and level detailing takes a lot of work, and we need extra help to get us through the finish line and beyond. So who are we looking for? Primarily we are looking for Environment Artists, 3D Modellers and 2D Concept Artists, but other departments are also open for applicants.
For more details or to apply go to: Overmare Application Form
Environment Design
Do you have experience with map making or terrain shaping tools in Unity, Unreal, or with map editors in other games like Far Cry or ARMA 3? We want to hear from you.
An Environment Artist's role is to help craft and design various terrains and locations from the macro level (terrain and layout), to the micro (clutter detailing of a house or a Point of Interest). In doing so, you help create the type of world and story we're telling.
Do note while we prefer applicants with Unity engine experience, we do take into account other map level experience, and one must have a desire to learn to use Unity.
3D Modeller
Modellers are tasked with creating all 3D models. Texture artists are tasked with adding visual detail to all of those models. Not all modellers must be texture artists, nor must all texture artists be modellers, but the requirements for each are largely the same. Applicants do not have to know all of these things, but we prefer if they can:
- Make detailed, but optimized, low-poly models
- Create semi-realistic textures
- Bake normal maps using high-poly models (i.e., sculpted or otherwise modeled)
- Create metallic and roughness maps
The programs and tools you choose do not matter so long as you can export models in FBX format. Please note, applicants MUST have an online accessible gallery to show off their work, such as a DeviantArt account, a Social Media page, or even a Google Drive folder.
2D Concept Artists
We are actively looking for artists who know how to design and draw a variety of entities, man-made objects, or organic objects, in a clearly readable style. The ability to use multiple art styles is a plus.
You should have a firm grasp of perspective, detailing, color, and the use of a digital art program (e.g., Photoshop, Clip Studio, or SAI). Traditional artists must own a scanner. Please note, applicants MUST have an online accessible gallery to show off their work, such as a DeviantArt account, a Social Media page, or even a Google Drive folder.
Final Comments and Social Media
We hope this blog post helps illuminate some of what's been going on over at Overmare Studios and the work that's been done to make Ashes. If you still have questions or thoughts on what's been discussed in this blog post, you can check out the following social media platforms:
Discord
If you still have questions in regards to applying to The Overmare Studios, about Wave 6, the project in general, or you just want to talk with like minded fans, come check out our Discord.
It has been our primary location for Ashes of Equestria. We post regular updates and announcements there, so if you want to stay informed or chat with fellow fans, please come join it!
Twitter/X
We’re also on Twitter/X. Follow us there to keep up to date on any new announcements, or sneak peaks of our development for Wave 6 and beyond.
BlueSky
We also opened a BlueSky Account for those who prefer alternative social media sites. It’s still relatively new but we will keep it as updated as the rest of our social media platforms.