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The Timeless Art Direction of Mirror’s Edge: A Look Back at Its Unique Visual Style

It’s truly remarkable how Mirror’s Edge, released nearly two decades ago, still stands out as a game with unparalleled art direction. The attention to detail, the cleanliness, and the purpose behind every element make it a digital embodiment of the future. Surprisingly, very few games have managed to replicate its visual aesthetic since then, opting for dull realism instead.

In a fascinating oral history of the game on Design Room, the original senior developers revealed some intriguing insights. During the development phase, Mirror’s Edge was initially intended to have a more conventional look, akin to other games using the Unreal Engine at the time. However, senior producer Owen O’Brien noticed that this approach led to simulation sickness when moving rapidly through the environment. This realization prompted a shift towards a cleaner, less detailed world.

Art director Johannes Söderqvist also shared his perspective, mentioning how the initial design resembled generic, run-down New York rooftops. While it wasn’t necessarily bad, it lacked a distinct style. O’Brien emphasized the importance of making Mirror’s Edge visually distinctive, wanting players to instantly recognize the game from a screenshot in a magazine.

To achieve this striking visual identity, Söderqvist and his team decided to strip away color from the textures, leaving most environments predominantly white with occasional blocks of color for guidance. This bold artistic choice not only differentiated Mirror’s Edge from other games but also enhanced the overall gameplay experience.

Lighting artist Oscar Carlén provided an insightful perspective on the game’s atmosphere, highlighting how Faith’s hopeful spirit and bright outlook on life are reflected in the lighting design. Despite the dystopian setting of the game, the lighting conveys a sense of optimism and vibrancy.

If you’re intrigued by the creative process behind Mirror’s Edge, I highly recommend reading the full piece on Design Room. The dedication to visual excellence and storytelling in the game is truly commendable. And if you haven’t already experienced Mirror’s Edge, it remains a standout title worth playing for its innovative design and immersive gameplay.