Dead West
A hybrid animation that features a mix of 3D models and 2D animations. Includes an option for gaze tracking so the user can actively look around the scene.
Roles
3D Modeler • Programmer
Technical Stack
Overview
All aboard the interdimensional train. In this chilling hybrid
animation experience, you journey through the cabins of an
old-western train, witnessing ghostly passengers carrying out a
variety of eerie and dangerous tasks.
With built in face tracking capabilities, you can actively move the
camera to look at specific areas and events along the way.
Showcase
Experience
Dead West is an on-rails experience that takes the user through a haunted train. The user can look using gaze tracking to witness the ghostly passengers and their activities, as well as the other-worldly environment.
Visuals
The visuals are a mix of 3D models, 2D animations, and particle effects. This created an interesting juxtaposition between the characters and their environment.
Challenges
One of the biggest challenges was creating the gaze tracking system.
This was done using a Python script that interfaced with the Unity
game engine. The script would take the user's face position and move
the camera accordingly.
Another challenge was creating the 3D models and animations. This
was done using Blender and Adobe Animate, respectively. Finding ways
to keep the art styles different, yet cohesive, proved to be a fun
and interesting challenge.