MOBILE – Magic Media Studio

Farmville 3

robert — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 16:59:26 +0000

In creating a campaign of multiple short promos for a single game, optimizing your production pipeline and resources is important. We were recommended by an ASO firm to collaborate with leading developer Zynga on their Farmville 3 campaign. After a meeting with their Growth Manager, we were contracted to create a series of trailers for Farmville’s vibrant world of sim-farming.

Problem

In taking on the project, we faced a number of technical challenges. First, our client counted on us to create the series from scratch, providing only the titles which would be used in the video. Although this meant we were afforded a good deal of creative freedom, we had to be careful to consistently relay the proper tone for the game. Additionally, we had a tight timeline for the first video, with a net of 4-5 days to complete the final draft, which is typical for the creation of UA ads.

Solution

Although we could be adventurous, we also looked at finding creatives which were simple enough not to sacrifice or deter from the main focus of the ad. Our approach then to maintaining consistency developed quickly after we became more familiar with the existing materials at our disposal, especially with our animators. We optimized our production process to reuse and adapt these assets into new contexts and stories, thus making our turnaround faster and on schedule. Likewise, we successfully incorporated live-action stock footage, making its inclusion seamless within the videos, from colour grading to the addition of 3D elements. Combining this with examples of the gameplay, each promo conveys a distinct character, while orienting customers towards the experience of the game.

Result

At this rate, we have been able to create dozens of ads for Zynga’s Farmville based on this production process. On top of increasing sales for our client, we have also successfully established a long-term relationship with Zynga, through our streamlined process. From a technical perspective, we have also learned how to apply this pipeline to future projects, chiefly the process of mixing assets from a number of sources to make the story more cohesive.

More Resources

Binnamon

paul — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:12:12 +0000

Binnamon is a PvP MOBA with a focus on ranged combat in a battle arena. Omitting the lanes and minions of the traditional MOBA games, players can leap into combat with their unique NFT creatures and monsters. As an NFT based game, players can import their NFTs from the other Binamon collections as well as collect new creatures and monsters to utilise in the fight for victory.

Problem

We were contracted for full-cycle development with the Binamon title. This meant we handled everything from the initial designs and game design document to the core programming, art, production, and the UI/UX design. This project is still in its early stages, but we’ve been working on implementing the NFTs into the game’s design and the feature allowing players to import other NFTs from their collection. We cooperated with the client’s backend programmers, blockchain specialists, and Unreal Engine developers to achieve this implementation.

Solution

The game’s design went through several iterations from the original concept. Most notably, the game would have originally been focused on melee combat. After some research and testing, we decided to switch the game to a ranged combat system. We remade the core mechanics to accommodate this change and overall, it was a positive one. Playtesters and QA staff all reported a better feeling while playing with these new mechanics. Finally, we were working on these iterations and new updates on short turnarounds. Blockchain and NFT games are community built and focused so we aimed to have efficient turnarounds for the eager Binamon community.

Result

Over the course of delivering several updates, there have been two sets distinct, separate feedback from the community and the client. This gives us interesting sets of data to work with given the different sources. Our latest update was very well received by both. Overall, both client and community are very happy with our direction and with our deliveries of content and updates. Our latest update was increasing the server player counts to 60. Next up is creating individual servers for each region.