London, England – John Evelyn, the creator of the hand-drawn game “The Collage Atlas,” recently opened up about the inspiration behind his dreamlike storybook adventure. Evelyn’s game, available on Steam, features intricate drawings that bring the world to life, from delicate flowers to grand buildings.
Evelyn’s artistic process involves diving into the world of pen and ink without preliminary sketches, allowing for unexpected details and outcomes to emerge. This method of creation, akin to improvisational music, adds a layer of spontaneity and surprise to the game’s development.
The art style of “The Collage Atlas” plays a significant role in engaging players, encouraging them to pay attention to the intricate details scattered throughout the game world. For Evelyn, the game serves as a reflection on themes of agency and empowerment, aiming to explore the idea that every individual’s presence has a meaningful impact on the world around them.
Originally conceived as an app to complement a picture book, “The Collage Atlas” evolved into a multi-dimensional game after Evelyn showcased a short art experience at a gaming convention in 2016. The positive reception from attendees, including business professionals, prompted Evelyn to expand the project and transform it into a full-fledged game.
Evelyn’s journey in creating “The Collage Atlas” was not without challenges. Despite his background in various creative fields, such as freelance illustration and music production, he had to teach himself how to use game engine Unity to bring his illustrations to life in a 3D environment.
After years of dedication, the game was released on Apple Arcade in 2020 but was later removed due to platform regulations. Determined to preserve his work, Evelyn re-launched “The Collage Atlas” on Steam, ensuring that the game remains accessible to players.
Reflecting on his creative process, Evelyn expressed his initial doubts about continuing to work on games after the release of “The Collage Atlas.” However, his passion for storytelling led him to embark on a new project – “The Wings of Sycamore,” a spiritual sequel that explores themes of flight and freedom.
Through his unique approach to game development, Evelyn continues to captivate audiences with his hand-drawn creations, inviting players to immerse themselves in a world where every detail tells a story.