HackaTactics (2018)

Graphic Design, User Interface and Experience, Localization, Marketing, Motion Graphics, Video Production
Illustrator, After Effects, Trapcode Particular, Windows 10 Creators’ Update, ffmpeg

HackaTactics (or, in the Japanese, HackaHousou/HackaBroadcast) is a Hackadoll-themed fan game in the spirit of the old PlayStation game Battle Hunter. As a Hackadoll, your objective is to find the hidden treasure of each map and bring it to the exit on procedurally-generated tactical RPG boards while preventing three other players — rival Hackadolls — from doing the same!

Following our collaboration on Mischief Club, I was tapped by the lead developer/producer canon to be this game’s UI/UX designer. I mocked up and exported graphic assets in Illustrator and After Effects for him to implement in-game (using GameMaker Studio 2), checking for colorblind-friendliness and advising on best practices. In addition, I worked on the isometric tilesets for each stage, as well as all of the effects that went on top of them. Lastly, I was in charge of putting together the trailer for the game, which was done entirely using Windows 10’s built-in Game Bar and After Effects, as well as the oshinagaki menu for online and print use. The initial run of 50 copies was sold out at Comic Market 95 (winter 2018). Efforts to release the game digitally, as well as updates to the game, are in the works.

(The gallery below is comprised entirely of in-game screenshots.)

Hackadoll © DeNA, Co., Ltd. Nekomiya Hinata character © Hinata Channel. Game developed under the Doujin Mark License 1.0.
Character illustrations by pommelapin.