LogInThe PIGIAMA KASAMA team discussed their innovative approach to developing Kasama: The Awakening, a visually stunning web-based game that showcases the team's expertise and creativity.
Introduction
This episodic story-driven adventure exemplifies the power of thoughtful design, efficient resource optimization, and a deep understanding of player engagement. Achieving over 114,000 plays to date, it demonstrates how innovative web-based experiences can captivate and connect with a diverse audience.
At PIGIAMA KASAMA, our mission is clear. As a tech startup specializing in 3D video games, VR/AR applications, and AI-driven software solutions, we strive to deliver cutting-edge projects and bespoke software solutions for global brands such as BMW Group, Eli Lilly and Company, Oakley, Absolut, Pernod Ricard, and TomTom from our base in Amsterdam.
Video games transcend mere entertainment. With over 3 billion gamers worldwide, they offer a unique platform for training, promotion, and audience engagement. Our goal is to assist brands in connecting with this vast audience through meaningful digital experiences.
Preparing for the Next Level of Web Gaming
The future of web gaming is promising, thanks to advancements like WebGPU, the next-generation graphics API that major browsers are beginning to support. WebGPU is set to revolutionize the way we approach web games. WebGPU will provide the ability to access the graphical resources of your computer, which was not possible until now. This will allow bringing AAA-level games directly to the web, without the need for any application, both on mobile and desktop.
For studios like PIGIAMA KASAMA, these advancements open doors to delivering even more visually stunning and complex projects while maintaining performance across devices. Kasama: The Awakening demonstrates the potential of what’s already achievable, and hints at the possibilities to come.
Optimizing Performance
Bringing Kasama: The Awakening to life was no easy task. The goal was to deliver high visual fidelity without compromising performance across devices. From the outset, we approached every aspect of development with optimization in mind. We knew WebGL had limitations, but we saw them as opportunities to innovate.
Through techniques such as texture compression, polygon reduction, and material minimization, coupled with the utilization of Unity's Universal Render Pipeline and Shader Graph, we managed to slash texture memory usage by close to 50%, trim mesh vertices by over a third, and notably boost frame rates—achievements that held true even on low-end devices.
Lighting
Lighting was a key focus for both gameplay and storytelling. Lighting isn’t just an aesthetic element; it’s a gameplay mechanic. Using custom shaders, we created dynamic effects like the nightmare sequence, where the environment is cloaked in black ooze and turns into black and white. Activating lights clears the darkness, revealing the world and advancing the story.
This integration of visual storytelling and technical design is a hallmark of PIGIAMA KASAMA’s approach.
Sound Design
Sound was another critical element in creating an immersive experience. From a custom soundtrack to a linguist-crafted fictional language, audio played a pivotal role. Good audio should feel seamless—it enhances the experience without drawing attention to itself.
By compressing audio files to just 10 MB using efficient formats and Unity’s built-in compression tools, we maintained quality while optimizing for web-based performance.
Overcoming Multiplatform Challenges
Launching Kasama: The Awakening across web, mobile, and VR platforms required a tailored approach. Partnering with Spatial allowed us to adapt assets and features for each platform, ensuring a smooth experience regardless of device.
Our ability to scale high-quality content for diverse platforms was a game-changer.
Dynamic optimization ensured that features like depth of field were used on WebGL but adapted or excluded for mobile.
Learning and Iterating
Kasama: The Awakening was released episodically, a strategy that enabled us to incorporate player feedback and refine mechanics with each installment.
Each episode is an opportunity to grow and adapt. This iterative approach allowed us to balance quality, storytelling, and player expectations while exploring new technologies.
Brand Engagement
PIGIAMA KASAMA is more than a game development studio. With expertise in branded games, AI-powered solutions, and immersive technologies, we help brands redefine how they connect with audiences.
Whether it’s creating a web-based adventure like Kasama: The Awakening, designing VR training tools, or building AI-driven software, PIGIAMA KASAMA combines technical prowess with creative vision. We aim to turn innovative ideas into engaging, high-quality experiences that resonate.
Ready to explore how gaming and technology can transform your brand’s storytelling? Let Kasama: The Awakening inspire your next big idea.