Lies of P: how Unreal Engine 4 forged its dark world
The studio Neowiz Games chose Unreal Engine 4 as the technological core to build Lies of P. Despite not jumping to version 5 of the engine, they managed to optimize it to represent a distorted and gloomy vision of the historical period known as the Belle Époque, achieving very standout visual quality. 🎭
The technical base and workflow
The development team relied on a set of specialized tools to bring the world of Krat to life. The choice of Unreal Engine 4 provided a solid foundation on which to implement their graphics and gameplay systems.
Key tools in production:- Maya and ZBrush: Essential software for sculpting 3D models and animating characters and creatures.
- Substance 3D Suite: Used for texturing and generating realistic materials, simulating complex surfaces like corroded metal and cracked porcelain.
- FMOD: Integrated to manage audio, contributing to creating an immersive and dynamic sound layer.
The beauty of Krat is perceived as fragile as the porcelain of an automaton, on the verge of breaking with a wrong move.
Building the visual atmosphere
The graphical merit lies not only in the models, but in how the elements are combined to generate a constant sense of tension. The design of the enemies, with their reflective and brittle surfaces, is just the starting point.
Elements that define the environment:- Controlled lighting: A palette of dim and contrasted lights that increases the sense of danger and mystery.
- Volumetric fog: Adds physical density to the air, making the scenarios feel more enclosed, oppressive, and consistent with the narrative.
- Material processing: Advanced management of shaders and textures is crucial for materials like metal and porcelain to react credibly to ambient light.
Technical conclusion
Lies of P demonstrates that visual power does not depend exclusively on the latest engine, but on knowing how to optimize and exploit the available tools to the fullest. Neowiz's decision to stick with Unreal Engine 4 resulted in a title with a strong graphical identity, where every technical element, from texturing to lighting, serves to consolidate an immersive and memorable atmosphere. 🏙️