Nurveil

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p><strong>Today we are celebrating the beautiful fails of game Dev!</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Every polished and well made game is all achieved through diligence and understanding the details when creating. It’s easy as long as you are organized and focused… At least that’s what we thought!  </p> <p> </p> <p>The truth is… none of it starts that way… </p> <p> </p> <p>Before Nurveil became the dreamy, atmospheric world we’re proud of today, it was a hot mess of fails. And those fails? They’re worth celebrating, because we look at them and see how far we’ve come! And we feel we need to celebrate fails because those <strong>fails bring you to perfection!</strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Take our early concept art. On screen, it all looked fantastic; new and original buildings, every detail had a meaning, shapes were very interesting... But before we wanted to hand those sketches over to our 3D artist, we were like hold up…. How does this make sense in sculpting? </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--dc2b10ea6647c83873c7ebbed21e38bbaad9c1e8/image-20250916103248-1.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--dc2b10ea6647c83873c7ebbed21e38bbaad9c1e8/image-20250916103248-1.png"></a></div></div> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d931d7f51288e29fd8ada295423949aa6a7f5bf5/image-20250916103248-2.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d931d7f51288e29fd8ada295423949aa6a7f5bf5/image-20250916103248-2.png"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p>The buildings suddenly looked like origami gone wrong. It was a nightmare. So we scraped it and came off our high horse then went back to basics with something that can actually be doable <strong>AND something that fits our budget! </strong></p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--01258178fbe0d063f0dcef10e69ecc98a95460bc/image-20250916103249-3.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--01258178fbe0d063f0dcef10e69ecc98a95460bc/image-20250916103249-3.png"></a></div></div> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e21e62680ff8bdc6bc79ad027bfd213277a5f181/houses.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e21e62680ff8bdc6bc79ad027bfd213277a5f181/houses.png"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Then came our adventures in rigging and animation. We thought: “How hard can it be to make the MC jump?” Answer: harder than we expected… much harder. Instead of a heroic leap, they glided across the floor like they've taken up professional ice skating. </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ee0ccaa62ea133f3b0f9ede6b13ef07fee819ac5/Iceskating_1_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ee0ccaa62ea133f3b0f9ede6b13ef07fee819ac5/Iceskating_1_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Enemies? Instead of running away from the MC like we wanted, they spun gracefully like a pretty ballerina in endless circles. (Yes, we were tempted to keep it as a secret attack mode.)</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--7532b32160632a23ad7f3906bb5d4dbc35aadb7f/enemies%20dance_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--7532b32160632a23ad7f3906bb5d4dbc35aadb7f/enemies%20dance_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>No violence policy from Nur where they refused to shoot the enemy and decided to run in place instead… a pacifist at best</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--64ddfdf043ec3394547b3cc07d2807152a228593/no%20violence_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--64ddfdf043ec3394547b3cc07d2807152a228593/no%20violence_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>And oh, the clipping fails from animation characters' hands merging inside their body when speaking, to clipping doors with ceilings and arcs floating above the ground. </p> <p> </p> <p>Then there’s scaling. In one test, we miscalculated, and instead of being the right size for props, our NPC towered so large that he looked as if he was having lunch with ants. And where our MC took a bite from Alice in Wonderland’s mushroom to become so small for his world…. </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUzLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--fdb9c0bc72435e9c72c97224a3cf88e41aa691ad/image-20250916103249-4.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjUzLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--fdb9c0bc72435e9c72c97224a3cf88e41aa691ad/image-20250916103249-4.png"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Another funny one is our struggle to explain our idea to our 3D artist when we wanted the Sun boss character sculpted… least to say, it was a struggle, before we decided to send him a video of an actual example drawn on an apple… </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU1LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--7b7e1bfe9bb9934a40b9a8770e4d36598133f7c8/image-20250916103249-5.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU1LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--7b7e1bfe9bb9934a40b9a8770e4d36598133f7c8/image-20250916103249-5.png"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjYwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--0eb9a1b34db505a517f2b6e9f4755c3c775606f6/2_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjYwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--0eb9a1b34db505a517f2b6e9f4755c3c775606f6/2_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Not so many things are what they seem. Especially if they are sitting inside a box. Here is a classic example of how we cheat our way into believability by stretching the legs of our poor NPC to be “aesthetically pleasing” much like modern day plastic surgery except more… torturous. </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--37d8f1c2fadc31e563ae46673028c819fb51026f/image-20250916103249-6.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjU0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--37d8f1c2fadc31e563ae46673028c819fb51026f/image-20250916103249-6.png"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>But here’s the truth: these fails are not shameful…they’re essential. Funny…but essential. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Trial and error, test after test, mistake after glorious mistake, that’s how we build something worth playing. Every bug, every glitch, every “why is the character moonwalking instead of running?” moment is proof that the process is alive and moving forward.</p> <p> </p> <p>So the next time you see Nurveil looking smooth and polished, remember: behind every seamless animation lies a graveyard of either hilarious or soul-crushing fails. And honestly? We wouldn’t trade those disasters for anything. They’re what makes the journey real, and they deserve a little celebration of their own.</p> <p> </p> <p>Our greatest feature isn’t the graphics or gameplay, it’s surviving the fails without crying… much</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><em><strong>We would love to hear and see your fails! Tag the sunnymoon project team! Or add a #devfailweek to your posts for all us to see and laugh together! </strong></em></p> <p> </p> <p>YEAH! *cartoon fail horn*</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjYxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--006734a560d19148145b90a0cace111219a261cf/jump%20sequence_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk4MjYxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--006734a560d19148145b90a0cace111219a261cf/jump%20sequence_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p>I believe we have finally gained momentum and reached something I like to call the "Well-Oiled machine" stage of Nurveil. Getting to this point was difficult and choatic. But it is true they say every creative process starts with an uphill walk, and as soon as you reach the peak, you can slide down the rest of the way smoothly (Just make sure you have some brakes on you!) </p> <p> </p> <p><em>Disclaimer I'm going to say the word machine atleast 8 times in this blog, so you can have a drinking game to it! </em>🍻🍻</p> <p> </p> <p><br> Here is ....</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Building a Well-Oiled Machine That Doesn’t Spontaneously Combust</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Welcome to Another Sunnymoon’s blog! We all have heard the mentors and speakers at THU push us the artists and developers and enthusiasts to create our own thing! And tell our own original stories. My sisters and I were curious about this, so we are here to share with you how we built our well-oiled game making machine from scratch. Hopefully you'll feel encouraged to follow through as well! <br>  </p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="max-width:576px;"> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.25%;"></div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p>Let’s be real. Everyone talks about <em>game development</em> like it’s some magical process where ideas float from someone’s brain straight onto a screen and BAM!! players are crying over emotional cutscenes, rage quitting your boss fights, and then you get a big bag of cash.</p> <p> </p> <p>The truth? It’s more like assembling IKEA furniture with instructions written in some ancient hidden knowledge that only the most skill of mages can read. </p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="max-width:576px;"> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:41.6667%;"></div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p><br> <strong>But with the right pipeline? </strong>You turn that chaos into a smooth, running machine. A machine that runs itself with the right ideas and caution.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>What Even </strong><strong><em>Is</em></strong><strong> a Game Dev Pipeline?</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Think of it like an assembly line, but instead of making a machine, we’re crafting entire worlds, characters (And bugs.. so many bugs).</p> <p> </p> <p>A solid pipeline keeps everyone moving consistently:</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li>Artists create beautiful assets without burning out.<br>  </li> <li>Developers implement features without flipping their laptops.<br>  </li> <li>Animators make things move while bearing 100 messages saying, “It’s still floating weird.”<br>  <img alt="" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NzQwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--19421ab68921520763d2e779d99e8197a19f677e/Screenshot%202025-08-12%20at%2010.49.33%E2%80%AFAM.png" style="height:200px;width:350px;"> </li> <li>Project managers (Hello, that's me!) building up the card tower chanting “Please dont fall, please dont fall” </li> </ul> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Ingredients for a Well-Oiled Game Dev Machine:</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1-Make sure your project fits your budget</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>It is ok to be ambitious but don’t let yourself be pulled into a vast direction out of your budget. You must know that there will be hidden costs you never accounted for along the way for you should be prepared to have about an extra 20% on top of your original budget and calculations. </p> <p> </p> <p>This not only ensures your game survives but it also ensures having a stable pay for your team. And don't be shy to ask for "free" volunteer work sometimes! There are some people who would love to help and be part of the process for free or for a smaller sum of money.<br>  </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2-Have a clear process</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Everyone knows what comes next. No surprises, no confusion! The plan’s laid out, the tasks are clear, and we’re not gasping over “Wait, we needed sound effects?!” moments or last minute "Optimization" drills (Curse you!). Sure, there will be fires to put out along the way, there always are! but that’s your job: to make sure the road ahead has the fewest flames possible so the team can keep moving forward without tripping over chaos.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3-Good Communication</strong><br> We love a dramatic plot twist… in games tho! So make sure all artists, devs and animators have a space to discuss their questions with one another under your monitoring (Our team for example uses discord to do so). Another thing is to have the team’s schedules for availability overlap for questions to be answered directly without much delay. Though most our team is local, the rest are spread across the world so there is a 4-5 hour overlap with everyone being on together at once.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4-Tools that Actually Work</strong><br> Make sure that certains programs work with others. Whether they are working blender or Maya to unity or Procreate or illustrator to spine. Make sure that the export pathway is cleared out from the beginning to avoid late surprises. The size and resolution of the files have to be pre-determined for a better outcome. So test this out before handing it all to your team for "Mass production" </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p><strong>5-Your Team Understands the End Goal</strong></p> <br><p> Whether it's an adorable mobile app, a rage-inducing boss fight, or a 3D world filled with NPCs who won’t stop talking ABOUT THEIR DUMPLINGS (Looking at you Jeb!) </p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NzQxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ea5359e35c568fac125cb0d6b48f6d80e2867d65/Screenshot%202025-08-12%20at%2011.09.34%E2%80%AFAM.png"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NzQxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ea5359e35c568fac125cb0d6b48f6d80e2867d65/Screenshot%202025-08-12%20at%2011.09.34%E2%80%AFAM.png"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p>Everyone needs to be on the same page as to how the game needs to feel and look and act. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>6-Room for Panic, Followed by Problem-Solving</strong><br> Game development gets messy. Bugs appear. Animations float. Someone forgets their files are named <em>final_FINAL_final2.psd. Or maybe your programs crash. </em><br> It happens. Breathe. Find a solution. Fix. Move on.</p> <p> </p> <p>Do NOT play the blame game with your team! Do not use passive aggressiveness or silent treatments. This isn't an over the top reality show.<br> <br> If you truly think someone isn't a good fit, then you can talk it out, find other tasks for them, or find someone else more fitting for the position.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>7-Does the Machine Ever Run Itself?</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Kind of. It wont be entirely a hands off process for you but watching 2d artists handover files to 3d artists and then to animators, who then hand it over to the devs, <em><strong>THAT</strong></em> is when you know your pipeline is solid, things start flowing. Assets get reviewed, bugs get squashed, deadlines are met <em>mostly</em> on time, and you only question your life choices twice a week instead of daily. There is something heartwarming about falling asleep and waking up to your team doing the problem solving on their own between one another. 🥹</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>But here’s the secret: </strong>Game development is a living, breathing process. Your pipeline evolves, your tools upgrade, you and your team learn new tricks and before you know it, your machine feels less like chaos and more like… organized chaos.<br> And that? That’s game development at its finest! </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes chaos from Sunnymoon Project.</strong><br> We make games, we make mistakes, and we make sure it’s all part of the process<br>  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p>Nurveil update journal Day <strong>259</strong><br> <br> <br> All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <p>All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <p>All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <p>All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <p>All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <p>All Optimizing and no play, makes Rita a very dull boy</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NjcyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--174f6a43ef1a1dc9000b41054cf19a0a8a97f131/giphy.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NjcyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--174f6a43ef1a1dc9000b41054cf19a0a8a97f131/giphy.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p>….. How much longer before we see the sun and move on to actual tasks?<br> I do not know how much more hours we can spend on this but if you find this blog please remember us ~</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>OH BOY! Let’s talk about <strong>3D game asset optimization</strong>,  the holy grail of performance, and apparently the <em>Achilles heel</em> of the Nurveil project. <em>(Crying while writing this) </em></p> <p> </p> <p>The game was full steam ahead. Everyone was pumped. The world looked incredible. The maps were golden, and Nur was punching and slashing and doing freaking backflips across beautifully crafted terrain. We were <em>feeling it</em>. Until...</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The programmers opened the build folder.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>A GIGA. AN ABSOLUTE GIGA-ZILLA-TITAN-OUS.</strong></p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="max-width:294px;"> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:65.3061%;"></div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p><br> The Nurveil app was the size of a small continent with two mayors and a naked beach that somehow brings all the creepy tourists in. We’re talking <strong>over 1GB</strong> on mobile. On <strong>startup</strong>. Before <em>anything</em> had even loaded. I nearly cried. The phone <em>wheezed</em>. The app store laughed in our face. Our team stared at each other like we’d just built a AAA console epic and shoved it into a tiny cereal box.</p> <p> </p> <p>Why? Because <em>no one talks enough</em> about the <strong>3D asset bloat</strong> until it's strangling your entire project. Everyone’s in love with detail,since our game is taking such a rich cultural that has plenty of detail and patterns and trims.</p> <p> </p> <p>Let’s be brutally clear:</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <strong>You do NOT need 120k poly models</strong> for a background pot. That’s not ambiance. That there, my friend, is a mobile seizure.<br>  </li> <li> <strong>You do NOT need 8K textures</strong> on a cat NPC that walks by once and never speaks to you again.<br>  </li> <li> <strong>You do NOT need complex shaders</strong> that simulate real-time algae growth on a fountain that 0.0005% of players would even find.<br>  </li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>We were so busy being artistic, we forgot to be <strong>smart</strong>. A mobile game needs optimization. Without it, you’re just dragging a dead whale onto players' devices and asking them to have fun with it.</p> <p> </p> <p>So now, post-giga-revelation, we’re redoing meshes. We’re crushing textures. We’re baking lighting. We’re sobbing over UVs. And every time we downgrade a 200MB file to a blessed 2MB, we feel our souls crawl back into our bodies.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Lesson?</strong><br> No one cares how pretty your world is if it <strong>won’t load</strong> T_T<br> Art is beautiful. Optimization is survival! </p> <p> </p> <p>And Nurveil?<br> Nurveil’s gonna survive… smooth, light, and full of secrets. Just as it was always meant to be.</p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="max-width:576px;"> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:100%;"></div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p><br>  </p> <p> </p> <p>Also we started working on the VFX now as we optimize.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NjczLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e640ba31c2603d1e6a6bf909189df07e94c97ea6/Screenshot_20250806_111538_Nurveil.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NjczLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e640ba31c2603d1e6a6bf909189df07e94c97ea6/Screenshot_20250806_111538_Nurveil.jpg"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p>We got seriously tired of the same old game clichés, sand dunes, magic swords, and glowing orbs popping up everywhere. So we hit pause and looked closer to home: our culture, traditions, and those small details that often get overlooked but actually pack a punch! It took us a lot of time and research to develop these concepts, digging deep into our cultural heritage because we believe these stories deserve to be put in the spotlight. </p> <p> </p> <p>In this blog, we’ll show how we turned that scattered heritage into game art and characters that feel fresh, real, and way more interesting than the usual cookie-cutter stuff to build a complete visual development of the world of Nurveil... No deserts here, just the stories and visuals that define who we are and where we come from.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here are some of the concepts we worked on inspired from our culture: </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>1-This design was inspired by the window grills found in many of our grandparents’ homes, a detail deeply rooted in our architectural traditions. The curving, interlocking shapes felt symbolic, so we echoed that sense of cultural fluidity in the design.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTU4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--431985353d7728fabd31ed5ecb464b9fe8837b43/1.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTU4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--431985353d7728fabd31ed5ecb464b9fe8837b43/1.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>2-This mural blends Arabic calligraphy, traditional mosaic layouts, and symbols from the lunar calendar. It’s a visual tribute to the artistry that runs through our shared heritage.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTU5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--714824e4c031014895e1781597841d0487118272/2.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTU5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--714824e4c031014895e1781597841d0487118272/2.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>3-We drew inspiration from Tunisia, recognizing the rich historical and cultural connections it shares with Lebanon. At the El Jem Museum, near the Roman colosseum, we saw a mosaic featuring a striking stacked feather motif that was similar to a pattern found in the Lebanese national Museum. We reinterpreted that detail into the Sun Palace’s columns and even in cushion patterns throughout the game.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--8f2ec2bc253a5163414065c5f2aa2eebc3b674e3/3.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--8f2ec2bc253a5163414065c5f2aa2eebc3b674e3/3.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>4-This looping, intertwined design appears in museums across both Lebanon and Tunisia, reflecting our shared artistic roots. We reimagined it as a decorative trim in the Moon Queendom, giving it a new context while honoring its origin.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTc3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e52cbaa75727d1dbe710b59e2a98faf10dd6fe54/4.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTc3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--e52cbaa75727d1dbe710b59e2a98faf10dd6fe54/4.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>5-Every Lebanese person instantly recognizes the </p> <em>“Fenjen”</em><p>, it’s more than just a coffee cup, it’s a cultural symbol that brings nostalgia to every Lebanese whether local or abroad! We brought it into the game as a nod to shared collective memory and tradition.The pattern evokes warmth, memory, and comfort, tied to grandma’s home, early morning gatherings, and communal connection.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ec3433112ba5fe2b9c481f042e04c335806e0562/5.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ec3433112ba5fe2b9c481f042e04c335806e0562/5.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>6-This outfit draws inspiration from classic illustrations of </p> <em>A Thousand and One Nights</em><p>, capturing the rich detailing seen in those timeless stories that are still being told to generations today.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYzLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--a1a11136aa8c8db2d9bec588a61da4f9e65531d3/6.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTYzLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--a1a11136aa8c8db2d9bec588a61da4f9e65531d3/6.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>7-The word 'phoenix' is tied strongly with “Phoenician” and the color reddish-purple. Beirut is often called a phoenix for its history of frequent destruction and direct rebirth. (Woopie Doo!) This outfit honors that legacy, both in its fiery color palette and in its nod to ancient Phoenician warriors.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <em>Rita: “that were like totally Bffs with romans btw~”</em><br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--6c6ca2cb2d70edb308dc4211b0d282204b8a53e7/7.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--6c6ca2cb2d70edb308dc4211b0d282204b8a53e7/7.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>8-We included the Cyclamen libanoticum; Lebanon’s national flower; as a subtle symbol of resilience and beauty. It is a flower that defies gravity. Growing its petals upwards to the sky. </p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY1LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--53893e327ec811430469bcc9c02e47abc6e160a2/8.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY1LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--53893e327ec811430469bcc9c02e47abc6e160a2/8.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>9-The pattern on the back of traditional Lebanese playing cards inspired this design</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--02822de57ec705276291b6baffd9542e9a4a6aec/9.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--02822de57ec705276291b6baffd9542e9a4a6aec/9.jpg"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>10-This design is inspired by the evil eye, a symbol used to ward off evil in anceint Mesopotamia and Egyptian times and is still believed to this day.  “Evil Begone🧿🧿🧿!”</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d2d567ee23076be0d91580cf4c9c91e694a0a6e4/10.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY3LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d2d567ee23076be0d91580cf4c9c91e694a0a6e4/10.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>11-This outfit is inspired by backgammon, or ‘shesh besh’, a name we grew up hearing from our dads and uncles while they played and yelled at each other competitively. I think a lot of people share that intense memory. *see patterns and remembers the yelling like a PTSD trigger*</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--b134b96eaa9c77083570195c6ffdd0739bdaa288/11.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--b134b96eaa9c77083570195c6ffdd0739bdaa288/11.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>12-One outfit is inspired by elite Lebanese theatre, specifically the historical and cultural Caracalla costumes from ‘A Thousand and One Nights’</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--3bb9bee1ebad8a0fc1394fb08d5c00e969f95602/12.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTY5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--3bb9bee1ebad8a0fc1394fb08d5c00e969f95602/12.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>13-This moon queendom trim is inspired by maamoul molds. A delicious sugary traditional a modern sassy descendent of the ancient egyptian kakeh (cookie) Eaten regularly on celebratory holidays like Easter, Eid, and Ramadan</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d23e77875aba48bf1fd8d994dec40ec4c2b8142b/13.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--d23e77875aba48bf1fd8d994dec40ec4c2b8142b/13.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>14-Lira’s outfit is inspired by Lebanese currency. His belt pattern comes from the 50,000L.L. bill, his robe features a simplified old 250 L.L. coin design, and the cedar tree on his back matches the one on the currency.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--eb6033ea3c2b7dbf3aeafe28f749733bd63f0519/14.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--eb6033ea3c2b7dbf3aeafe28f749733bd63f0519/14.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>15-Fifi’s in general is inspired by the vintage Jezzine cutlery. A culturally significant town in Lebanon. It was the town that accepted the main trades coming from the east, especially India. </p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--bc2a31c6db00943288efa49762c3c749ff31e87c/15.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTcyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--bc2a31c6db00943288efa49762c3c749ff31e87c/15.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>16-  Being a Pharoah hound, Wayne’s scarf pattern is inspired by Seth’s scepter. In ancient Egypt, Seth was the god of chaos, desert and storms, fitting for our chaotic friend who found himself stuck in a box.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTczLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--cc8c41e988d1555c6121be42fa43493e4fae2d6a/16.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTczLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--cc8c41e988d1555c6121be42fa43493e4fae2d6a/16.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>17-Tail’s robe represents Seshat, the ancient Egyptian goddess of measurement, astronomy, and writing. The seven-pointed star symbolizes divine insight and celestial order, while the dome represents a crescent moon, bow, or palm rib which are tools used in timekeeping and record-keeping.</p> <br><p> </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTc0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--fee40f5da6b1594db7729c6550d14db35fd43fa4/17.jpg"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2NTc0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--fee40f5da6b1594db7729c6550d14db35fd43fa4/17.jpg"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>It’s hard to notice your own culture when you live in it every day. But seen through a foreigner’s eyes, it’s anything but ordinary. People find those details fascinating and fresh because they’re not the usual stuff you see everywhere. That is why, we present this world of Nurveil inspired by our lives to YOU!</p> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p><em>With the 3D character models now completed, our upcoming phase: <strong>animation⭐</strong>.</em></p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><em><img alt="" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjYwLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--7ed7a4413c771dfda6ae0b6f6dce0152e2bf29ab/IMG_9042.webp" style="height:329px;width:400px;"></em></div> <p> </p> <p>✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦</p> <p> </p> <p>I’m responsible for directing our 3D animator in animating the MC, creatures, and NPCs, while ensuring all movements are fluid and realistic, without causing the phone to heat up and explode. It’s a balancing act between authenticity and efficiency, and that’s where the enjoyment (and the feedback loops) start!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Here is a compilation of a bunch of animations, and how they differed from the first draft to the second draft after feedback:</p> <p> </p> <p>───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.25%;"></div> </div> <p> </p> <p>───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Each group comes with its own set of rules:</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>⚔️The MC is our little puppet, it needs to feel generally satisfying to control and every movement has to feel as fun and dynamic as possible while still being grounded. Most of our time has gone to tweaking attack animations, recieving impact animations, and running.</p> <p> </p> <p>🐛Monsters are where we can get a little weirder. We want them to move in unsettling ways while also remaining real(The centipede animation was the biggest struggle, solely because it was very icky to animate and to look at in general, WE HAD TO RESEARCH REFERENCE PICS! :( ). When it came to their death sequence and attacks, we wanted them to appear generally satisfying and rewarding to strike by increasing the amount of impact they face when being hit by the MC</p> <p> </p> <p>🗣️NPCs are more subtle. But we wanted to make sure they still fill out the spaces in the environment by grounding their movements while keeping a sense of dynamics. Each NPC was also animated in a different way to highlight their personality and attitude, whether that's through their stance, posture, or general speed of movement!</p> <p> </p> <p>✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦</p> <p> </p> <p>Most of these animations, as seen from the feedback notes, focus heavily on animation basics with a special attention to <strong>overshooting, arcs, exaggeration, and anticipation (and general speeding!)</strong>. While the rest are also important to pay attention to, to me these four elements are my go-to for making any animation or general movement look more impactful and lively.</p> <p> </p> <p>In some cases, I had to slow down the animation frame rate to study how the body form and silhouette looks in each and every frame, especially when it comes to <strong>delay and weight </strong>as<strong> </strong>in some cases, it's the hips that lead the body, and in others the head, and in others the hand and so on!</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjU2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--5ba7d040cf3b1ffbb7bca37b4a46033063c29ebf/Dream_4_copy%202_1.gif"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjU2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--5ba7d040cf3b1ffbb7bca37b4a46033063c29ebf/Dream_4_copy%202_1.gif"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p>Because being an animator means randomly staring at strangers in public studying how their limbs move and not noticing you are practically zoning out at them (please tell me that it's not just me who does this....)</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjYxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--6fb2eb5960ed0b13ee6a9670aa8cec3d9294b244/IMG_9041.webp"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjYxLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--6fb2eb5960ed0b13ee6a9670aa8cec3d9294b244/IMG_9041.webp"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────</p> <p> </p> <p>That’s our current stage in the process! It's chaotic, it's detailed, it's imaginative, yet it's somewhat enchanting to see static models transform into characters with genuine personality🌟</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjYyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--58205974c2a8c35693684c94ae6a2b4eb3565d21/IMG_9043.webp"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk2MjYyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--58205974c2a8c35693684c94ae6a2b4eb3565d21/IMG_9043.webp"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p><strong>✧The World of Nurveil Lore✧</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><em>A land shaped by light… and touched by something darker.</em></p> <p> </p> <p>Every idea begins with a spark.</p> <p> </p> <p>In <strong>Nurveil</strong>, it starts with <strong>three Queendoms</strong>, each ruling from a different kind of light:</p> <p> </p> <p>The <strong>Sun Queendom</strong>, where warmth fuels creation, trade, and devotion.<br> The <strong>Moon Queendom</strong>, where silence shelters wisdom, memory, and dreams.<br> The <strong>Star Queendom</strong>, where rhythm becomes navigation and entertainment becomes legacy.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXew0xdDFpVeCNxHRqcexUnaY1u6Fvo08ukGabs0jDjDt2QOo-cq9PTuStJ6-yrx8BjtJSucWST6RZqzFhepabWpL4TzMuH4mLnni0yuSbvZGntY_H_Y6_xbBWZOERLOcAVXg2-3?key=487IB28c5TtOo6XDGtrPCw"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXew0xdDFpVeCNxHRqcexUnaY1u6Fvo08ukGabs0jDjDt2QOo-cq9PTuStJ6-yrx8BjtJSucWST6RZqzFhepabWpL4TzMuH4mLnni0yuSbvZGntY_H_Y6_xbBWZOERLOcAVXg2-3?key=487IB28c5TtOo6XDGtrPCw"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Each realm flourished on its own, yet remained linked by an invisible harmony. Light moved freely, guiding life, art, and belief. But lately… something's changed.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The Plot: A Shift in the Light</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Cracks have begun to appear, quiet at first, like a flicker in a lantern.<br> Some say the stars fall faster now.<br> Some say the shadows have started speaking.<br> And some don’t say anything at all.</p> <p> </p> <p>In a desperate act of unity, the Queens join their abilities to create one last hope:<strong> Nur (You / the player)</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Who or What is Nur?</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>They are a traveler born from <strong>all three lights</strong>, yet belong to none.<br> They carry no memory, no allegiance, only a quiet pull toward a path unseen.<br> What begins as a journey of light... might not end the way anyone expects. (the game will have different endings). Nur wields weapons made from light that can be upgraded as you proceed. </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><em><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXe41t4lCj6Sevnb2bXGBOIzA7q-2Bt7u6f3bh1MhcSCk7lip_XN6dUP8M8HTmxmpMksP9OGTlsUb-erc3ySqUlRIIJZc_18VVfWisVeGNw1B3mNqg4-GOYP_9ROQ-1LZEcsipBr?key=487IB28c5TtOo6XDGtrPCw" style="height:301px;width:624px;"></em></div> <p> </p> <p><strong>A World Waiting to Be Understood</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Nurveil is not a land of heroes or villains. It is a place where questions matter more than answers. Where even the darkest places may hold a flicker of truth, and even the brightest can cast long shadows.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <p>By speaking to unique NPCs in real-time the mechanics are like 'Ask-and-get answers' sort of play. </p> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc0pZSAPH0rNXep0mlpXNievmXWVffweV4yZq4G-sJZcNa_9kj6MKT1-hk9R0IkcKHhnV9Bmn4EHmTjfRxEs4lg2A5MaAQdjRkleZYEp69InryQfIZ6kVKzynWGtDD9LZSiAdpE?key=487IB28c5TtOo6XDGtrPCw"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc0pZSAPH0rNXep0mlpXNievmXWVffweV4yZq4G-sJZcNa_9kj6MKT1-hk9R0IkcKHhnV9Bmn4EHmTjfRxEs4lg2A5MaAQdjRkleZYEp69InryQfIZ6kVKzynWGtDD9LZSiAdpE?key=487IB28c5TtOo6XDGtrPCw"></a></div></div> </div> <p> </p> <p><strong>The reason we chose machine powered conversation:</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>We know how frustrating it is to have a small limited list of prepared dialogue for the player to choose from. And with the rise of all these chatbots, might as well make it fun, engaging and actually interesting. Like a form of open roleplay in the realm of Nur. </p> <p> </p> <p>Your path will be shaped by the 'bias' characters you meet, the places you tread, and the choices you make. But no one, not even the light, knows how your story ends. It is all up to you. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Here is the initial animatic prepared for our game teaser. Let us know what you think! </p> <p> </p> <div> <div style="width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.25%;"></div> </div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p><em>They say creativity is dying in the era of AI. But we believe true creativity thrives when you look backward just as much as you look forward.</em></p> <p> </p> <p>We live in a world flooded with media, from games to films to apps, everything competes for attention. So how do you take something ancient, local, maybe even unheard of, and turn it into something the modern world actually wants to engage with?</p> <p> </p> <p>The answer lies in <strong>modernizing heritage, </strong>finding bold, unexpected ways to bring your culture to life without losing its soul.</p> <p> </p> <p>At <strong>Sunnymoon Project</strong>, that's exactly what we set out to do with <strong>Nurveil</strong>, our Phoenician-inspired game filled with light, mystery, and quirky characters.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here’s how you can showcase your own culture or heritage in modern media, and make it impossible to ignore while using examples from our own game!</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1. Start with Real Roots, Not Clichés</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Forget the tired tropes. Real culture is more than sand dunes, treasure and pyramids (we're looking at you, Hollywood).<br> <br> Go deeper! language, forgotten myths, ancient symbols, even superstitions, those hidden gems are your gold mine.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>In Nurveil:</strong><br> We based our world on the rarely represented Phoenician culture, but not the usual textbook stuff. We dove into ancient words, maritime myths, and the spirit of exploration the Phoenicians were known for. Our hero, <strong>Nur </strong>(Meaning Light), doesn’t fight sea serpents and eats shawarma. He travels through a fractured realm of light and darkness inspired by real historical symbolism. The sun and moon were a big deal back in these times and they were worshiped like the moon goddess of motherhood and war, same goes for the Solar cults that resided in the Baalbek temple.<br>  </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"> <div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXecTRTXPYSb5dJS6LI7XPL2joAltXW37D9s9mXBWVyyBa21BMNQBezfZyzn644jDJRIKl8sdNxlYiQ1-irqEEhth9yxdBow4UHVqCnCR88GAhP8d8SaxBT7Jy5p7VLchTrfw2h4?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXecTRTXPYSb5dJS6LI7XPL2joAltXW37D9s9mXBWVyyBa21BMNQBezfZyzn644jDJRIKl8sdNxlYiQ1-irqEEhth9yxdBow4UHVqCnCR88GAhP8d8SaxBT7Jy5p7VLchTrfw2h4?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div> <br><p>  </p> </div> <p> </p> <p><strong>2. Blend the Old with the Unexpected</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Not everything ancient has to feel dusty and serious. One of the best ways to modernize heritage? Take a core cultural symbol and flip the mood entirely.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>In Nurveil:</strong><br> We turned the <strong>Star Queendom</strong>, rooted in ancient star myths for ship navigation, into a full-blown party capital similar to modern day Beirut. Think glowing roller rinks, raves, circus tents, and parades, while still weaving in real Phoenician influences like navigation, astronomy, and cosmic symbols. It's history with glitter on top and players love it.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeFHYLCNUlZwb9_aFd5Qz-8RylFETyy8b4LCv-t0EPBdsVcdZ4pvoEmQmS9wgSq-K-gHVh3FLImHAukTi4YeDl_RqUFPirGSTOMAbGD0nEJ17l6zLuc1wYaLAhcjqTP3TJpvlQD?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeFHYLCNUlZwb9_aFd5Qz-8RylFETyy8b4LCv-t0EPBdsVcdZ4pvoEmQmS9wgSq-K-gHVh3FLImHAukTi4YeDl_RqUFPirGSTOMAbGD0nEJ17l6zLuc1wYaLAhcjqTP3TJpvlQD?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p><strong>3. Characters Are Your Cultural Messengers</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Forget lectures let your characters carry the culture. Through speech, design, quirks, and beliefs, they reflect the soul of the world.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>In Nurveil:</strong></p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <strong>Safe (Meaning Sword)</strong>, our palace guard, is a striped hyena which is the national animal of Lebanon. They are facing a decline in population due to illegal hunting and that is basically the story of Safe, the last of his kind.<br>  </li> <li> <strong>Norah</strong>, the priestess oryx, quotes old Arab proverbs and superstitions.<br>  </li> <li>Even enemies, like the <strong>Toum</strong>, borrow traits from a regional cuisine favorite, Garlic..</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Players absorb the culture naturally, through interaction, not exposition dumps.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcDnRQBzor2Tkk2uv0BvphXrTdtio32u-ayxfehVPMajNXFy9M1D2-bmMJERMruNel7lHnbJE3OLsoewS01pVgZyDi7WyaLMDl25SCM1uxoMVHQc48pcJsIvLnMriRTH-_6JEC9?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcDnRQBzor2Tkk2uv0BvphXrTdtio32u-ayxfehVPMajNXFy9M1D2-bmMJERMruNel7lHnbJE3OLsoewS01pVgZyDi7WyaLMDl25SCM1uxoMVHQc48pcJsIvLnMriRTH-_6JEC9?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p><strong>4. Design with Symbolism, Not Just Aesthetics</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Visuals tell a story too. Patterns, architecture, props, they all whisper the world’s history.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>In Nurveil:</strong><br> Our world map, temples, clothing and environments hide Phoenician symbols and items, ancient star patterns, and subtle references to regional crafts, Like Fifi as the unique Jezzine cutlery. Even the clothes on Lira (Merchant) are inspired by patterns on our modern paper money</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfLDKosKMdC_H_RkFojWj2Ft6EVcG6PaTQlTENyGph4OinPmrWR40PVcg2kD07n3aXCufnJ1jV06ZbjlcHWqiR2quvrmsF-aiI7Q0390Q8cZAGs0VUIptMMWPNLSuMAAi28fxs6?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfLDKosKMdC_H_RkFojWj2Ft6EVcG6PaTQlTENyGph4OinPmrWR40PVcg2kD07n3aXCufnJ1jV06ZbjlcHWqiR2quvrmsF-aiI7Q0390Q8cZAGs0VUIptMMWPNLSuMAAi28fxs6?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p><strong>5. Respect the Past But Entertain the Present</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>You’re not making a history book. Keep it fun, interactive, emotional. Modern media thrives on engagement.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>In Nurveil:</strong><br> The game is packed with humor, mystery, and even lighthearted chaos (yes, you can buy a glowing rainbow rainbow knefeh). It's culturally rich, but it never feels like homework.</p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc7Scu9Gywqcwz1kQxnpt6J7fDVLR4XwVeQUaTBbCCG7GGC4tcGp44DSebMbsqRyIZNN8co_i1FFVgcVkEXkwekhlF-xMwPC115bNDqY4qJG4ETAOepICqOoWonRdGqrVT__GVK?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc7Scu9Gywqcwz1kQxnpt6J7fDVLR4XwVeQUaTBbCCG7GGC4tcGp44DSebMbsqRyIZNN8co_i1FFVgcVkEXkwekhlF-xMwPC115bNDqY4qJG4ETAOepICqOoWonRdGqrVT__GVK?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p><strong>Final Thought: Heritage is Power, If You Let It Evolve</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Modernizing culture doesn’t mean diluting it, it means amplifying its spirit for today’s world. With the right mix of respect, creativity, and boldness, your heritage can light up any medium—just like Nurveil aims to light up the gaming world!</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Want to see how we did it? Check out Nurveil’s journey, where ancient roots meet modern gameplay.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><br>  </p> <p> </p> <div class="lightbox-container"><div class="pswp-gallery lightbox " data-controller="lightbox" data-lightbox-target="container"><div class="lightbox__item"><a target="_blank" data-lightbox-target="item" href="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdX0mPTj7K7I3aV34VwIO89ha0JyyUl-40gfGZYC6ugnDBAS9WZaYIqKOXDxdb1GcY3D0Q58tEVEsqbcRcVr0vlwZ4AO_AM9HfcoaJt5gRnBcPPKA2b7R3hi9-F3YktmV7V-ORo?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"><img alt="" loading="lazy" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdX0mPTj7K7I3aV34VwIO89ha0JyyUl-40gfGZYC6ugnDBAS9WZaYIqKOXDxdb1GcY3D0Q58tEVEsqbcRcVr0vlwZ4AO_AM9HfcoaJt5gRnBcPPKA2b7R3hi9-F3YktmV7V-ORo?key=mvlAZZF-oCDVEXugi4WemA"></a></div></div></div> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div>

<div class="lexxy-content lightbox-container"> <p>Welcome to the Sunnymoon Project Realm, where creativity runs in the family and ambition never hits the brakes. We are an indie studio run by three sisters who somehow haven’t killed each other (yet). We draw, we animate, we build weird worlds, and we bicker just enough to keep things interesting.</p> <p>The Team:</p> <p><action-text-attachment sgid="eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6ImdpZDovL3RodS11bml2ZXJzZS9Vc2VyLzM5Nz9leHBpcmVzX2luIiwicHVyIjoiYXR0YWNoYWJsZSJ9fQ==--4ce95e5e1d62d6779987070e19e27e3fce7e6619" content-type="application/vnd.actiontext.user_mention" content='"&lt;a class="\&amp;quot;lexxy-mention-attachment\&amp;quot;" href="\%22/village/warriors/dahlia-khodur\%22"&gt;@Dahlia Khodur&lt;/a&gt;"'><a class="lexxy-mention-attachment" data-controller="mention-preview" data-mention-preview-url-value="/mentions/preview?id=397&amp;type=User" data-remote="true" href="https://www.trojan-unicorn.com/village/warriors/dahlia-khodur">@Dahlia Khodur</a></action-text-attachment><strong>⁠</strong> – Co-founder, UI designer, and studio manager. She’s the calm in the chaos… until something isn’t pixel-perfect. Then she becomes the UI demon. But with grace. Somehow.</p> <p><action-text-attachment sgid="eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6ImdpZDovL3RodS11bml2ZXJzZS9Vc2VyLzMyMTg_ZXhwaXJlc19pbiIsInB1ciI6ImF0dGFjaGFibGUifX0=--b478b53cb553d4f38998b2ddc6094fd86484ec99" content-type="application/vnd.actiontext.user_mention" content='"&lt;a class="\&amp;quot;lexxy-mention-attachment\&amp;quot;" href="\%22/village/warriors/rita-khodur\%22"&gt;@Rita Khodur&lt;/a&gt;"'><a class="lexxy-mention-attachment" data-controller="mention-preview" data-mention-preview-url-value="/mentions/preview?id=3218&amp;type=User" data-remote="true" href="https://www.trojan-unicorn.com/village/warriors/rita-khodur">@Rita Khodur</a></action-text-attachment><strong>⁠</strong> – Co-founder, project manager, and illustrator. She’s the one making sure things look pretty and get done on time. She draws, plans, organizes, and occasionally spirals but things somehow get done. Also known as: the one with the master plan… and backup plans A through Z.</p> <p><action-text-attachment sgid="eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6ImdpZDovL3RodS11bml2ZXJzZS9Vc2VyLzYwNDU_ZXhwaXJlc19pbiIsInB1ciI6ImF0dGFjaGFibGUifX0=--2e83d6b8752fe7beba6549952922bd4a0c5d6b9e" content-type="application/vnd.actiontext.user_mention" content='"&lt;a class="\&amp;quot;lexxy-mention-attachment\&amp;quot;" href="\%22/village/warriors/karen-khodur\%22"&gt;@Korny / Karen Khodur&lt;/a&gt;"'><a class="lexxy-mention-attachment" data-controller="mention-preview" data-mention-preview-url-value="/mentions/preview?id=6045&amp;type=User" data-remote="true" href="https://www.trojan-unicorn.com/village/warriors/karen-khodur">@Korny / Karen Khodur</a></action-text-attachment><strong>⁠</strong> – Our animator and the youngest sister. She makes everything move and groove~. Without her, our characters would just stand around awkwardly like Sims without free will.</p> <action-text-attachment content-type="image/*" url="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk1NzY0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--b8d1e92e7738c78331634260efc785e4b0bc505d/Team%20photo.jpg" filename="Team%20photo.jpg" presentation="gallery" caption=""><figure class="attachment attachment--preview"> <img src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTk1NzY0LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--b8d1e92e7738c78331634260efc785e4b0bc505d/Team%20photo.jpg"> </figure></action-text-attachment><p>Together, we’re like a steam engine powered by creativity, stubbornness, and way too much motivation. We debate over fonts, hug over bugs, and occasionally summon ancient gods with our brainstorming sessions.</p> <p>And speaking of summoning...</p> <p> Meet <em>Nurveil</em> — our latest game child!</p> <p>Nurveil is a narrative adventure where your choices ripple through a changing world. You play as Nur, a being of light wandering the lands of the Sun, Moon, and Star Queendoms. Solve ancient puzzles, battle twisted monsters, and uncover hidden paths as you piece together a long-lost story. Dialogue features real-time interaction, allowing NPCs to remember your words (via mic or text input) and respond in ways that unlock quests and shift the perception of the world around you. It is inspired by ancient Phoenician vibes emotionally, existentially and beautifully.</p> <p>So welcome aboard! This blog is where we’ll <strong>share behind-the-scenes chaos, game updates, character reveals, and possibly our group therapy notes</strong>.</p> <p>Stay tuned. We have only just begun.</p> <p> </p> </div>