In this devlog, we’re hearing from Canan A., whose work this week is focused on giving Kingstown its unique visual identity. From learning the art of hand-painted textures to implementing environmental storytelling elements, Canan’s contributions help ensure the world doesn’t just look good, it feels alive, layered, and full of surprises.
She’s been helping guide the shift from placeholder blockouts to a fully realized map, while also supporting the character team and pitching new ideas for how players will experience the city across their many lives.
What did you work on last week, and what’s next?
I continued to my learnings about hand painting 3D models to ensure our game's 2D style is beautifully integrated (I would say painted!) into our 3D map. While I’m still in the early stages of this process, we can look forward to sharing updates on the new textures for our maps and buildings! The map is coming to life Farewell, gray blockouts!!
For next week, I’ve also taken on a new task: creating reusable decoys/asset designs that will allow us to add more 2D details to our map & have some fresh ideas regarding player guidance and visualizations that I plan to present at this week's art meeting(later today).
The map is evolving! More details, more surprises who knows what you’ll uncover next?
What’s a new feature, mechanic, or piece of content you're excited about?
As a character-creation lover, narrative designer, artist & a huge Sims and RPG player (BG3 especially!) I’m super excited to see our character creator taking shape. I can’t wait to watch how each main NPC’s design evolves across different life stages and ages!
What’s been the most interesting design or technical challenge recently?
I’ve seen how much work every department is putting in, especially our Live2D specialists. There are always small details that needs testing to make sure everything moves and feels smooth. They’re the ones bringing our characters to life, and it’s been super interesting to watch and support their process, so keep up the great work!
Is there anything players might miss if they don’t look closely?
We’re adding more details to the map and continuing to develop it, so there will be plenty of little things to discover and areas to explore. Who knows what adventures await? Let’s find out, since you have 100 lives! Get ready, everyone!
How is your work helping bring the “100 Lives” concept to life?
I focus on defining the identity and atmosphere of Kingstown, supporting the Senior Technical Artist in shaping the 3D town map to match the 2D art style and evolve the city’s layout. I create and implement key environmental elements that bring the world to life, from city structures and landscapes to props and visual storytelling details.
By crafting and texturing 2D and 3D assets, I help our Senior 3D Technical Artist & create an environment where the narrative and characters resonate. Every bench, street sign, and piece of terrain plays a part in making Kingstown feel lived in and authentic, transforming “100 Lives” into a world for players to explore.
Canan’s work is a perfect example of how art and storytelling come together in 100 Lives. Whether it’s a subtle texture on a building, a perfectly placed bench, or a small prop tucked into a corner of the map, every detail helps build a sense of place, and gives players a reason to keep exploring.
We’ll be back soon with more updates from the team. Until then, don’t forget to wishlist 100 Lives on Steam, and take a moment to appreciate the little things in Kingstown. You never know what you’ll find.