Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Develop a cohesive visual style and thematic direction for a reimagined classic IP.

2. Create detailed concept art for characters, vehicles, and environments.

3. Utilize 3D software for rough underpainting to enhance design accuracy.

4. Apply advanced kitbashing techniques to create complex scenes.

5. Produce a comprehensive portfolio showcasing a professional "design bible".

Course Structure/Format This is an in-person studio course. Class starts promptly at 4:00 PM. The first 2-3 hours include demonstrations and critiques, followed by a 60-minute dinner break at approximately 7:00 PM. The remainder of the session is dedicated to studio work and individual feedback. We will utilize Slack, Miro, and FigJam for collaboration.

Materials & Costs

• Computer/laptop with video camera/microphone.

• 3D Software: Maya, Blender, Unreal, or Google SketchUp (free).

• Sketchbook and pens/pencils for ideation (Ipad/Procreate also works)

Attendance Unexcused absences from as few as three class meetings will result in failure of the course. It is the student's responsibility to check MICA email for updates regarding inclement weather or shifts to remote instruction.

Assessment/Grading

• Professionalism (Participation & Critique): 10%

• Class Projects (Weekly Assignments): 70%

• Final Project (Design Bible & Key Marketing Image): 20%

Weekly Schedule (Spring 2026)

• Jan 26 (Week 1): Course Introduction, Project Brief, & Game Reveal.

• Feb 2 (Week 2): Mood Board Presentations 

• Feb 9 (Week 3): Hero Character Design – Week 1 (Initial Designs).

• Feb 16 (Week 4): Hero Character Design – Week 2 (Final Refinement/Critique).

• Feb 23 (Week 5): Antagonist/Creature Design – Week 1 (Initial Concepts).

• Mar 2 (Week 6): Antagonist/Creature Design – Week 2 (Final Refinement/Critique).

• Mar 9 (Week 7): Vehicle/Ship Design – Part 1 (3D Rough Underpainting).

• Mar 16: ❌ NO CLASS (Spring Break).

• Mar 23 (Week 8): Vehicle/Ship Design – Part 2 (Final Critique).

• Mar 30 (Week 9): Environment Design – Part 1 (3D Kitbashing/Block-in).

• Apr 6 (Week 10): Environment Design – Part 2 (Final Refinement/Critique).

• Apr 13 (Week 11): Marketing Poster – Part 1: Introduction, Thumbnails, & Composition.

• Apr 20 (Week 12): Marketing Poster – Part 2: Rendering, Color Studies, & Lighting.

• Apr 27 (Week 13): Marketing Poster – Part 3: Final Polish & Portfolio Preparation.

• May 4 (Week 14): Final Presentation & Critique.