Walberg Works

♬ Let's find a rhythm and create something! ♫

“Critical Hit”

Disciplines: Brand Design, Graphic Design, Research

Duration: 48 hours

Tools: Photoshop, InDesign, Figma

Dungeon Synth needs a facelift…

so I created an album with interactive downloadable content.

Let’s look at the treasure and then examine the battle.

↘ Results: Castle Octarine

↘ Problem: Death Save

The Dungeon Synth genre’s roots run deep in a niche underground music scene which keeps it hidden from most music listeners. Its primary platform for distribution is through Bandcamp, whose future looks uncertain as of 2023.

So I embarked on a quest to connect Dungeon Synth with Dungeon’s & Dragons recent rise in popularity in hopes of establishing a new platform for the genre to flourish.

↘ Research: Ancient Times

Mortiis & Cassettes

Dungeon Synth was born in the 90’s and grew though cassette tape trading. Mortiis is considered the major name in the genre so I wanted to steer clear of their style but not shy too far from it.

Gygax, Sutherland & Monochrome Modules

I had to admit I’m a huge nerd when it comes to D&D. I found the original “Monochrome Modules” visually pleasing and loved their simplicity. I thought including an adventure to download with the album would be something great to interact with.

The Fall of Bandcamp & The Rise of Wizards of the Coast

Bandcamp currently is the primary source for cassette tape distribution but is going through internal turmoil with layoffs and cuts. WotC has had a recent boom in popularity, especially though their downloadable content. Bringing the two together might help one another as well as our new band: Phase Door.

↯ Takeaways: Design Elements

Phase Door will offer music to be played while running original adventure modules via cassette tape or digital streaming.
Incorporate Sutherland’s whimsical and simple approach to illustration.

Intertwine the design elements from the module with the cassette tape packing.
Create a retro logo.

↘ Drafts: Character Creation

↑ So far pleased with the initial draft. The Brick may turn out to be too busy for the background. The jewel in “R” needs to be highlighted.

↑ I built a castle! Well, illustrated one at least. Simple shading and lack of detail capture the early D&D vibes. Needs danger though…

↯ Takeaways: Lessons Learned

Add contrasting textures to the background and typeface for the logo.

Add drama to the castle vignette.
Include “monochrome” aspects

↘ Revisions: Level-up

← We are close but I still think the background is too busy. The outer glow effect works great for the retro vibe. Still need to highlight the “Jewel” in the letter “R”, possibly with a lens flare. Keep it retro.

← What would a fantasy castle be without a dragon? The “Monochrome Module” look has been achieved. This should transfer well to the cassette tape and packaging.

↯ Takeaways: Refinement

Add highlight to letter “R”
Remove the background, the bricks are too busy.

Castle vignette looks good and is ready for packaging.

↘ Final Designs: Magic

“The Battle For Castle Octarine” Adventure Module

Castle Octarine Cassette Tape & Case

Primary Logo Lock-up (Color):

Primary Logo Lock-up (Black & White):

Logo Guidelines:

↘ Conclusion: Adventure Awaits

This was a dream to work on. So much so that I’ve taken this project to the next level and am currently working on a Phase Door album. This concept of downloadable content will be used and I’m looking forward to playing one of these adventures with friends. Happy adventuring!

– Topher