Original Post — Direct link
Intrepid Studios has been generous in revealing a myriad of spell effects across various classes, showcasing their dedication to diverse gameplay experiences. However, as we've explored these effects, it's hard to ignore the feeling that they're just not good. Let's take a closer look together.




While it's tempting to attribute the issues to bloom, it's worth noting that some spell effects suffered from excessive light emission. While the allure of flashy visuals can enhance the epic nature of spell effects, one may question whether such intensity is essential, especially in basic spells and standard attacks.

My initial concerns about the spell quality in this game were put to rest when Intrepid Studios unveiled what can only be described as the holy grail of abilities. The recent showcase of the "snipe_v2" ability stands out as their most remarkable creation to date, and I believe many will concur with this sentiment. Let's delve into the details together and draw comparisons with previous spells.

Initial animation
While the previous snipe animation wasn't inherently flawed, it didn't quite capture the true power and essence of the spell, as illustrated below.


The revamped snipe_v2 truly encapsulates the essence of unleashing a potent and impactful shot.




Arrow trail
Previously, the effects were overly bloomy and intense without apparent justification, making them challenging to observe comfortably.



While the arrow spell effect wasn't the worst among others, it still left much to be desired. Now, take a look at how they have beautifully reworked it.




Light emission
As mentioned earlier, the issue of excessive light emission is evident in the example below. It not only lacks a natural aesthetic but also feels disconnected from the immersive world around it.


Turning our attention to snipe_v2, it's evident that the spell emits light, but the execution is subtle, visually pleasing, and seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment.


Summary
Intrepid Studios is making commendable strides in the right direction. The cast animation of snipe_v2 is not only visually appealing but also aligns seamlessly with the spell's inherent power. The arrow's trail is well-executed, striking a balance between aesthetics and subtlety. The spell remains recognizable without overwhelming onlookers with excessive brightness. I believe that most of the spells should emit light, so it's refreshing to see a spell that emits light in a refined manner, as demonstrated by snipe_v2. I am hopeful that Intrepid will extend this level of quality to other spell effects in their future work.
5 months ago - Vaknar - Direct link
Very well put together thread :) You did a great job of using visual examples to supplement your points!

As always, we appreciate your feedback and understanding that everything we show is Alpha gameplay, and a work in progress! <3