Intro

The consistent angles of isometric projection are a perfect match with the low res abstraction of pixel art. Together, they form an eternally cozy style that deserves regular visitation. While the convincing illusion of 3D may appear challenging at a glance, patience, and consistency can overcome lack of graphic skills. Furthermore, I take a constructive approach that can be easily understood by beginners, while also providing a foundation to solve advanced graphic problems.

As the title implies, this is not the first Pixelblog to feature this lovely skew. If you are new to isometric pixel art, more of the fundamentals are covered in Pixelblog 41. and Pixelblog 4. However, if you are inclined to learn through action, much can be discovered by pixeling along with the following exercises. Similar to assembling a set of Legos, the picture on the box can be achieved by carefully following the directions, one pixel at a time.

CAR

1-2. The process starts with basic outlines of the main shapes of the overall object. While I’ve exploded the view for easy visual separation, it’s helpful to create each piece on separate layers, which allows the flexibility to move things around, and make edits with minimum consequence.

3-4. Colors and values are established across the various planes of the shapes. Bevels slice the edges with varying thickness to provide a smoother, more aerodynamic look. Further details are added, including windows, fenders, rims, lights and intakes.

5. Anti-aliasing is applied to smooth harsh edges, and subtle outlining is applied to make the sprite pop. Note the rhythmic dots added to the angled edges. Also, a bit more shine is added to the rims.

6. Racing stripes, and rear view windows are added. Lastly, a reflective sheen is given to the windows.

Ready to race!

Tree

Due to the round shapes, isometric trees are almost indistinguishable from a 3/4 top down projection. Obviously, a perfect sphere appears the same from any perspective. In this case, which uses simple oval shaped foliage bundles, it could pass for either projection. However, if the tree was more complex, and exhibited individual limbs, the subtle differences may become more apparent.

For example, this fantastic tree in the above image definitely fits in an isometric landscape, but may appear out of place in a top down setting. Ultimately, it’s best practice to stick to the foundational guide lines of the desired projection when making assets.

Furthermore, the trunk of my isometric tree starts with creating a tapered cylinder that strictly conforms to the 2:1 line pattern of the isometric grid. One flat oval at the base, and another slightly smaller one placed above, then connect them at the sides along the Y axis. Roots at the base of the trunk also roughly flow along 2:1 paths to emphasize the isometric quality.

The shape of the foliage units are more about the style and species than a specific isometric ratio. Perfect spheres, vertically long ovals, or even rectangular shapes could be used for certain types of trees. In this case, I just eyeballed ovals that are roughly 3:2 ratio, which feels pretty natural for a bundle of leaves for any projection, and the overall shape lends itself well to the implied perspective of the isometric environment. Moreover, the somewhat cartoonish, large oval tree actually looks quite nice in an isometric setting.

For the multi-bundle version of the tree, I maintain a similar 3:2 ratio for the overall grouping. After layering the bundles together, some touch up is needed to smooth out the shading, and to remove unsightly clusters that result from the overlapping. Lastly, the tree is nestled in some grass and given a cast shadow. Yes, a happy tree indeed.

Fore more examples of layering foliage modules, check out Pixelblog 44.

House

Again, the process starts with simple outlines, defining the main shapes, and basic features of the house. Mapping out the entire shape, including the lines that won’t be seen when filled with color, will ensure accurate sizing and alignment. I suggest creating each component on a separate layer, as designated by the unique colors, which allows for easy control to find the perfect size, and positioning. Just always make sure you have the proper layer selected before you start making edits! I’ve only made that mistake a few thousand times.

Setting the outlines takes care of most of the spatial calculations. From there, the fun of coloring and decorating your house can begin. When converting the outline areas into solid color fields, consider the light source, and luminous quality of the building materials to dictate the values. My light source is coming from the top right, providing warm glow to the brick walls, and a touch of shine to the freshly painted wooden roof. The strong directional light creates considerable contrast from the right facing side, to the left facing side of the house.

After the basic colors are established, drop shadows and highlighted edges are defined by the light source. Finally, subtle outlining and minor dithering smooths harsh cluster connections and gives the whole house a bit more pop. Ah, nothing like a cozy cottage in the isometric projection.

Final Thoughts

It always takes me a while to settle into the methods of making isometric pixel art when I haven’t done it in a while. Take your time, stay organized, stick with the process, and it will come together in joyous fashion. Some people find it helpful to work from a grid of isometric lines in the background. I made a custom grid once, but I find it sufficient to just have a single 2:1 guide line on a layer that I can use as a ruler to check alignments when needed.

While this is the 3rd Pixelblog to focus specifically on isometric pixel art, it’s my first one since I switched from Photoshop to Aseprite. I have to say, it’s much easier to drop those 2:1 lines in Aseprite with the live preview of the pencil tool when holding shift. The thought of animating isometric art still kind of terrifies me, but with Aseprite’s awesome animation tools, perhaps our next venture will come with motion!

Resources

Please consider supporting my work by becoming a Patron. Among many other rewards, Patrons can download the assets featured in my tutorials. But, most importantly, you allow me to continue making new content!

Many of my popular assets are also available to purchase from my digital shop

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Assets featured in this Pixelblog are available in More Isometric Pixels Assets Pack

Source files used in the making of this Pixelblog are available in More Isometric Pixels Source Files

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You made it to the end of the article. Thank you for reading!

-By Raymond Schlitter