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Testing a new background for my cozy city-building game, set in 1930, inspired by the aesthetic of train models. Every piece of the city is recreated in the real world first and then converted to achieve a hand-painted, realistic artist look. What do you think? Part 2
r/IndieDev
7/8/2025
Content Summary
Developer showcases a 1930s-inspired city-building game with physical model-based assets converted to hand-painted digital style. The post focuses on visual presentation testing, particularly depth-of-field effects and asset integration. Community feedback highlights technical adjustments needed for gameplay usability while praising the unique aesthetic approach. Steam wishlist promotion and potential music collaboration offers are present.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinion praises the game's unique aesthetic and asset quality, particularly the physical-to-digital conversion process. Technical debates focus on depth-of-field implementation:
- Pro-aesthetic: Supports strong DoF for marketing/screenshots
- Pro-usability: Argues for reduced blur during gameplay Controversial points include historical setting appropriateness and asset customization depth compared to competitors. Some suggest optional background variations as compromise.
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | https://store.steampowered.com/app/3017770/Zlin_City_Arch_Moderna/ | Game Distribution | Wishlist functionality for pre-launch engagement |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Excessive depth of field blur affecting gameplay visibility
- White overlay on unplaced objects obscures preview
- Flat tree cutouts breaking scene depth consistency
- Historical era (Great Depression) conflicting with cozy theme
Problems to Solve:
- Balancing aesthetic depth-of-field with gameplay usability
- Improving object placement preview clarity
- Maintaining visual consistency in 3D environments
- Aligning historical setting with game tone
Potential Solutions:
- Adjust depth-of-field to wider focus area with edge-only blur
- Reduce opacity of placement preview overlays
- Add shading/parallax to flat elements
- Consider alternative time periods (e.g. 1925)
- Implement optional background variations
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Physical-to-digital asset conversion for authentic aesthetics
- Steam wishlist integration for pre-launch traction
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Photo-mode screenshots for marketing materials
- Community engagement through Reddit showcases
Monetization & Product:
- Potential DLC/expansion through background variations
- Asset customization options for player creativity
User Engagement:
- Implementing shareable screenshot features
- Crowdsourcing music collaboration opportunities
- Community-driven content suggestions (campaign settings)