ABOUT

These rather bombastic skateboard decks are part of a game I’m working on that is currently in soft launch. They’re designed to support gameplay and customisation while adding a bit of fun to Battle Pass progression. The game is stylised and aimed at a younger audience, but, like all the accessories in the game, I still wanted the boards to feel like something you might find in a real store: bold, collectible, grounded and fun.

I created loads of these boards, beginning with the electric skull, skull pattern and bomb illustrations. These were developed alongside the 3D board to make sure everything worked within the context of the game. The setup allows me to change the wheel colours and deck designs through simple texture swaps, without touching the UVs or 3D model. Small considerations like this are essential when working with limited time and budgets.

Some of the more interesting later designs came from a collaboration with illustrator and old college friend Matt Rowe. I gave him a few topics and a general style direction, and he came back with a great batch of line-art sketches. I didn’t want to restrict his creative process with technical details too early, so I let him explore freely. Once he had finished, I selected the strongest ideas, made a few edits, provided further art direction and colourised them.

The flying skateboard burger, probably my favourite, took loose inspiration from a T-shirt design I liked. The composition is completely different, but I loved its line work and bold use of colour. I’m also a big fan of the pizza eating itself. It’s super clean, and I couldn’t resist adding the “Yum!” type. The flying robot with a drink is entirely Matt’s work and was fully coloured by him. I’ve no idea what he was on when he came up with that, but I love it.

I really enjoy collaborating with talented people. The work often takes on a life of its own, and interesting things emerge from the creative back-and-forth. It was also brilliant to reconnect after all these years and bring some wild ideas to life together. Matt is a great illustrator: creative, fast and professional. I can’t recommend him enough.