For the fifth year in a row we were asked by Microsoft-Rare Studios to create two new characters, brother and sister Demarco and Lesedi, for their ever popular game Sea of Thieves.
What we had to do We were given artwork of both characters and had to create life-size versions. Because neither character had ever been rendered in a 3-D form it was down to us to translate the 2-D drawings in to their 3-D full size selves. So how did we do it? We specialise in creating 3-D versions of characters from mere concepts to basic sketches to full 3-D computer artwork, so this job was no more daunting than any of the many others we have worked on for Microsoft-Rare. We were given only a front and back view of each of the characters, which makes the task of creating a life-size 3-D sculpture slightly more complex. For both sculptures we started with a skeleton, an armature made from metal, wire, foam and timber: these had to be strong enough to hold up to 1 quarter of a ton of clay each and also create the basic shape of the sculpture. Once we had the basic shape we sent regular update photos to the client and continued to send photos right through the sculpting process: our clients appreciate this service because more often than not, some of our clients have just a concept or idea and they need us to design and visualise these in to 3-D forms, so seeing their ideas developing organically is invaluable. Once the sculpts were ready, we made silicone moulds of them and then cast them in fibreglass. Both finished sculpts had to come apart in smaller sections so that they would fit in to small flight cases as they will be travelling the globe to be displayed at various events to promote the Sea of Thieves. The result Microsoft-Rare loved our sculptures and and sea of Thieves thanked us on social media platforms. We have to admit, they did look really amazing when they were painted and lacquered, but not only is that down to our dedicated, talented team, but also thanks to the design team at Rare for their beautiful creations.
What our client said
Wow…It’s not an easy task working from a 2d character and Lesedi needed that extra push, but these look awesome! Great work Spur team! Can’t wait to see Lesedi with her finishing touches now! Peter Hentze Brand & Licensing Art Director Microsoft Rare Honestly, these are genuinely stunning. Cannot wait to see them in person. Adam Park Senior Brand and Licensing Producer
Visit the Spur Creative Ltd website for more information on Microsoft Sea of Thieves 2019 – Demarco and Lesedi