Abstract style

Minimal stylization by Thiago Klafke vs over exaggerated stylization in Journey (2012)

In video game design, 3D stylized representation can be divided in 3 sub-categories: cel-shading, cartoon

and semi-realistic.

Cel-shading

Cel-shadingis a 3D technique that cast shadow to 3d objects and make them appear flat as hand-drawn

by using a single shading color instead of a gradient. This technique is appropriate for exaggerated

cartoon style representations. Successful game that utilized cel-shading in stylized representation is “The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker”, “Jet Set Radio” . Nevertheless, with today graphical standards, this

technique is not very common.

3D Cartoon graphics

Cartoon graphics are exaggerated comics of game characters and environments rendered in 3D. They are

made of more polygons, complex shapes, textures, shadows and offer a more realistic image compared

to cel-shading technique. Super Mario 64, the first Mario game in 3D, has been one of the most

influential game in terms of 3D representation style. It set the standard for character design in 3D.

Abstract style

Abstract style focuses on basic elements, colors and shapes that produce pure forms instead of a

detailed realistic design. Abstractionism does not reproduce the existing visual reality, nor stimulate the

recognition of living places and characters. It is based on free-forms and is related to a more visceral

experience. Therefore, is not very suitable for videogames that contain a narrative. In fact, only

videogames based purely in gameplay that lack narrative can be highly abstract.

In the ‘70, the majority of games were minimalistic and abstract, because of limited technology in image processing. Tetris was one of the most famous games with an abstract style. Two decades later