Creating The World Of The Phoenician Scheme: A BTS Featurette

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Conceptualizing the Phoenician Scheme's World

The initial brainstorming for the world of the Phoenician Scheme began with a deep dive into inspiration sources. The team meticulously researched historical records from the Phoenician civilization, delving into their trade routes, societal structures, and mythology. This historical foundation provided a solid base, but the creative team also drew inspiration from existing fantasy worlds and mythologies, carefully blending historical accuracy with creative license to construct something truly unique.

• Inspiration Sources: Historical accounts of Phoenician culture, Greek and Roman mythology, elements of fantasy literature like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Game of Thrones," and the visual styles of historical epics.
• Initial Concept Art and Sketches: Early sketches focused on establishing the core aesthetic – a blend of historical realism and fantastical elements. These early visualizations helped to define the overall look and feel of the Phoenician Scheme world.
• Defining the Core Aesthetic and Tone: The decision was made to create a world steeped in historical influences but with a distinct fantastical twist. This resulted in a world that feels grounded yet magical, offering a compelling blend of realistic detail and imaginative storytelling. The overall tone is one of intrigue, adventure, and a touch of dark mystery.

The balance between historical accuracy and creative license was crucial. While many details draw inspiration from Phoenician history, the team took significant liberties in areas to enhance the narrative potential and create a truly engaging world for players. This approach allowed for a unique interpretation that respects historical roots while allowing for imaginative expansion.

Designing the Environment and Locations

The visual aspects of the Phoenician Scheme's world were carefully crafted to enhance immersion and storytelling. The team worked extensively to create a detailed and believable environment, rich in visual details and atmosphere.

• Detailed Descriptions of Key Locations: The game features diverse locations, including bustling coastal cities inspired by Tyre and Sidon, treacherous mountain passes echoing the rugged landscapes of Lebanon, and mysterious, ancient ruins hinting at lost civilizations.
• Discussion of the Visual Style: The architectural style blends Phoenician influences with elements of fantasy, creating unique structures that feel both historically inspired and fantastical. Clothing designs reflect the historical periods but also incorporate stylistic flourishes to enhance the overall visual appeal. Technology levels are deliberately ambiguous, adding to the mystique of the world.
• Use of Color Palettes and Lighting: A warm, earthy palette dominates the landscapes, contrasting with the vibrant colors of the cities and the deep, cool tones of the mysterious ruins. Lighting plays a crucial role in establishing mood, with dramatic shadows and bright sunlit scenes creating varied and engaging visuals.
• How Location Design Contributes to Storytelling: Each location serves a narrative purpose. For example, the bustling city of Tyre provides a central hub for interaction and intrigue, while the treacherous mountain passes represent obstacles and challenges for the characters.

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Creating Believable Characters and Cultures

The inhabitants of the Phoenician Scheme world are as richly detailed as the environments they inhabit. Creating believable characters and cultures was a critical aspect of world-building.

• Character Design and Visual Representation: Characters are designed to reflect their cultural backgrounds and roles within society. Clothing, hairstyles, and body language all contribute to creating a sense of authenticity and individuality.
• Development of Unique Cultures, Traditions, and Belief Systems: Multiple cultures exist within the world, each with its unique traditions, customs, and beliefs. These differences create opportunities for conflict, cooperation, and cultural exchange within the narrative.
• Exploration of Social Structures, Hierarchies, and Conflicts: The Phoenician Scheme world is not without its social complexities. Power structures, social hierarchies, and political conflicts play a significant role in the stories told within the game.
• The Impact of Cultural Differences on the Plot and Character Interactions: Cultural differences often drive the plot forward, creating friction, alliances, and unexpected twists in the narrative.

The Technology and Magic System of the Phoenician Scheme

The Phoenician Scheme's world features a subtle blend of advanced seafaring technology and elements of implied magic, creating a sense of mystery and wonder.

• Explanation of the Technological Advancements: The Phoenicians were renowned seafarers, and the game reflects this with detailed ship designs and depictions of advanced maritime technology for the time. This is juxtaposed with more rudimentary technology in other areas.
• Description of the Magic System: While not overtly magical, there are subtle hints of the supernatural, expressed through ancient rituals, prophecies, and unexplained occurrences. This creates a world where the line between the mundane and magical is blurred.
• How These Systems Influence Character Choices, Conflicts, and Plot Development: The technological capabilities and the mysterious magical undertones shape the actions and choices of the characters, influencing alliances, conflicts, and ultimately, the narrative arc of the story.
• Discussion of the Balance Between Technology and Magic: The careful balance between advanced seafaring technology and subtle suggestions of the magical creates an atmosphere of intriguing ambiguity, leaving room for interpretation and enhancing the overall mystery.

Conclusion

Creating the immersive world of the Phoenician Scheme was a collaborative effort requiring meticulous research, creative vision, and a dedication to detail. This featurette explored the conceptualization, environment design, character development, and the technological/magical foundations that give this world its distinctive character. From the initial brainstorming sessions and concept art to the intricate details of location design and character interactions, each element contributes to the rich tapestry of the Phoenician Scheme.

Want to learn more about the intricate details and creative process behind other aspects of "The Phoenician Scheme"? Keep an eye out for future behind-the-scenes featurettes and delve deeper into the captivating world of the Phoenician Scheme!