Back to Shovel Out
Unreal Engine - Level Art - Environment

The Stage

A key location in Shovel Out where the player acquires the shovel - the game's signature weapon. Full level pipeline built by me.

Unreal Engine 5.5 Blueprints Maya - Blender Substance Painter Shovel Out Role: Game Designer / Generalist Artist

// Overview

The Stage is one of the key locations in Shovel Out - a noir-drenched performance space inside Hotel Cotard where the player first acquires the shovel, the game's main weapon. The entire level pipeline was executed by me, from initial blockout through final art, lighting and atmosphere.

// Gallery

The Stage - wide shot showing art deco architecture, chandelier and dramatic noir lighting The Stage - detailed view with neon arrow sign, ornate columns and green atmospheric lighting The Stage - back area with neon Voz Poshville sign, DJ table and moody spotlight arrangement

// My Role

  • Level design - gameplay layout, encounter flow and pacing for this key story moment.
  • Blockout - initial greybox pass establishing proportions, sightlines and player navigation.
  • Environment art - full art pass with modeled and textured assets, architectural details and set dressing.
  • Lighting - Lumen-based lighting setup creating the noir atmosphere with dramatic shadows and accent lights.
  • Post-processing - color grading and atmosphere tuning to match the game's dark, stylized aesthetic.

// Tech Stack

Unreal Engine 5.5 Lumen Blueprints Maya Blender Substance Painter