Survivor Series

October 7, 2024

God of War

The God of War series has always captivated me with its epic storytelling. It charts Kratos' journey from self-destruction to self-actualization. His evolution unfolds over three trilogies and a Norse mythology-based sequel, offering an intense, multi-layered narrative.

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In reimagining this journey, I envisioned Kratos returning to Greece with his son, Loki, grappling with mental challenges and facing new adversaries. I focused on the psychological tension of Kratos' past self—The Ghost of Sparta—casting a long shadow over his current identity as The God of Hope. I incorporated the stark contrast between Kratos' past and present personas in my design using visual techniques like layering and shadowing. The figure of Zeus, who has haunted Kratos for years, became the central motif, symbolizing the duality of destruction and inspiration. The design is underscored with textural contrasts, invoking the raw emotion and psychological conflict Kratos experiences. The color palette shifts between dark, oppressive hues for the past and vibrant, hopeful tones for the present, communicating the transformation that defines Kratos' character arc.

A Visual Experience

Photography as Storytelling: This zine is a dynamic visual narrative where every photo becomes integral to the story. From vibrant street murals to candid portraits and the architectural elegance of Bogotá's colonial past, the imagery creates a rich, sensory experience. Each photograph is purposefully placed, guiding you through the city's bustling streets and hidden gems.

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Typography with Purpose

Design with Movement: The typography reflects the vibrancy of Bogotá. Bold, striking headlines capture attention, while carefully crafted subheadings create rhythm and flow, guiding the reader through the experience. The fonts were selected to reflect the varied energy of the city—playful and expressive for street art, elegant for colonial buildings, and bold for the lively markets.

Venomous Webs

I crafted a seamless blend of iconic characters by combining high-action shots of Spider-Man and Miles Morales swinging through New York with the menacing presence of Kraven and the fluid motion of Venom. Using advanced layer masking techniques, I integrated these dynamic figures to create a balanced, impactful composition that maintains visual flow.

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I infused energy into every brushstroke, from the raw intensity of Venom's symbiote to Kraven's primal tattoos. These elements were designed to echo the raw power and motion of the characters while adding a visceral quality to the poster.

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I strategically used gradients and light effects to bring the heroes and villains into sharp focus. The shadows intensify Kraven and Venom's menacing presence while highlighting Spider-Man's heroic form. The cityscape behind them gleams, enhancing the dramatic tension of their showdown.

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Project Citations

God of War

The God of War series has always captivated me with its epic storytelling. It charts Kratos' journey from self-destruction to self-actualization. His evolution unfolds over three trilogies and a Norse mythology-based sequel, offering an intense, multi-layered narrative.

‍

In reimagining this journey, I envisioned Kratos returning to Greece with his son, Loki, grappling with mental challenges and facing new adversaries. I focused on the psychological tension of Kratos' past self—The Ghost of Sparta—casting a long shadow over his current identity as The God of Hope. I incorporated the stark contrast between Kratos' past and present personas in my design using visual techniques like layering and shadowing. The figure of Zeus, who has haunted Kratos for years, became the central motif, symbolizing the duality of destruction and inspiration. The design is underscored with textural contrasts, invoking the raw emotion and psychological conflict Kratos experiences. The color palette shifts between dark, oppressive hues for the past and vibrant, hopeful tones for the present, communicating the transformation that defines Kratos' character arc.

Rise of The Tomb Raider

Lara Croft has been a cornerstone of my creative journey, embodying strength, curiosity, and the spirit of adventure. In this piece, I wanted to capture her dual nature as a friend, daughter, and iconic adventurer. Using a dynamic composition, I explored Lara's fierce determination and vulnerability, emphasizing her courage to confront the unknown.

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Using contrast and layering, I juxtaposed Lara's physicality with the vast, mysterious landscapes she explores, creating a balance between character and environment. My use of clean lines and geometric shapes in the background echoes the sharpness of Lara's focus. In contrast, the more organic, fluid lines that represent her movements evoke the personal growth she undergoes throughout the game. The typography plays a crucial role, reflecting her bold yet refined exploration of ancient mysteries, matching her relentless drive and intelligence.

The Last of Us Part 1

The Last of Us profoundly impacted me, particularly the emotionally charged relationship between Joel and Ellie. This piece honors their deep love in a world filled with violence and uncertainty. I aimed to capture the intimate moments of their journey through a balance of soft and intense visual cues.

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In this design, I utilized layered textures to represent the rawness of their experiences, creating depth through gradients and light effects that highlight both the warmth of their bond and the harsh environment they navigate. The subtle use of darker tones and fragmented imagery mirrors the fractured world around them, while the central focus on their hands, subtly entwined, symbolizes the resilience of their relationship. This deliberate placement draws the viewer's eye, creating a harmonious flow from chaos to connection, reflecting the game's central theme of human connection amidst destruction.

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Bucky Buckwalter 2025