100 illustrations for Monarchs of Camelot
Back in 2023 I had the pleasure of working with board game publisher Rhapsody Games on their debut title, Monarchs of Camelot. I did over 100 board game illustrations for the game and I took a few minutes today to round them all up and pop them into a super speedy minute long video. 100 pieces of art? It’s a lot to invest in as a game publisher. It begs the question….
How important is art in board games?
1. First Impressions and Attracting Players
Without sounding like an artist blowing their own trumpet (I’m about to…) board game illustrations are often the first thing players notice, whether on the box cover or cards and player boards. Good art can be the difference between them picking it up and give it a try or disregarding it entirely.
2. Immersion and Thematic Engagement
Without art, most games are a combination of text and stats. There’s a reason why even when playtesting, “borrowed art” is often used. My clients often say how having some images on cards will help keep their testers engaged, and rather than offer them very sterile test cards, print up some placeholder card art to use.
Why?
Because including board game illustrations will help with immersing players in the game’s theme or story. Most would agree this is critical to their enjoyment of the game. Whether it’s a fantasy realm, a sci-fi universe, or a historical setting, the art helps transport players into that world. High-quality, thematic art deepens engagement, making the gameplay experience feel more vivid and emotionally connected to the narrative.
3. Clarifying Game Mechanics and Components
We all know a good hand when we’ve played a game a few times. That’s not down to reading each card meticulously every time you draw cards… It’s the art that enhances the clarity of the game’s mechanics by visually distinguishing different components, characters, or resources. Clear, intuitive artwork on cards, boards, and pieces helps players understand at a glance what each component represents, improving gameplay flow and reducing the need to constantly check the rules.
4. Setting the Mood and Tone
The style of the artwork sets the tone of the game, whether it’s whimsical, dark, serious, or lighthearted. Art can signal the intensity of a game or communicate the level of complexity. For example, vibrant and colourful art might suggest a fun, family-friendly game, while gritty, detailed illustrations can indicate a more strategic or mature experience. Make sure to think about what demographics are your core audience when commissioning your artwork.
5. Branding and Identity
Board game art contributes to the overall branding and identity of the game. Iconic art styles or memorable illustrations can make a game stand out in a crowded market, helping it become recognizable over time. A game with distinct, unique artwork can build a loyal fan base and contribute to its long-term success. My clients often use their art as marketing tools when building an audience for their game.
Making beautiful marketing materials from them and getting them out into the wild drums up more interest from their target crowd.
Hi I’m Jamie!
I work on fantasy art for various clients from authors to game publishers. I have had some great clients working on both established IPs and new settings. I’m always interested in hearing about more projects I might be needed on, so feel free to drop me an email to info@thenobleartist.com
If you’re looking for a fantasy artist, feel free to snoop through my illustration portfolio or head straight over to contact me for work. You’ll find my email address and some handy forms which guide you through some of the starting info I’ll need to be able to quote for you. Typically I’m booked up a month ahead of time, but do drop me a line if you have anything time sensitive. Sometimes I’m able to move things around in a pinch. Hope to hear from you! In the meantime, stay informed of my new work and availability and sign up for the mailing list.
