With the release of the Lunar Remastered Collection making its debut for Xbox One (and compatible with Xbox Series X|S), I had the pleasure of chatting with Amy Nguyen, a Senior Graphic Designer with GungHo America. Our conversation delved into the inspiration and creative process behind the development of the game’s new logo.
Welcome, Amy! Tell us a bit about your career and some of the projects you’ve enjoyed at GungHo.
Hi there! Working at GungHo, I’ve tackled everything from designing assets for nationwide tournaments to engaging in partnerships with globally recognized intellectual properties. A particularly memorable project was leading the creative direction for the Grandia console port, scheduled for 2024.
What went through your mind when you were given the task of designing the new logo?
I felt a mix of excitement and nerves when asked to reimagine the Lunar logo, understanding its vital role in brand identity. Starting with several iterations, I honed in on a design that successfully communicated what I envisioned, all while refining it through feedback until the perfect version emerged.
Did the original Lunar logos play a role in the new design?
Absolutely. My approach began with thorough research, aiming to resonate with longtime fans of Lunar. The design evolved through extensive brainstorming and multiple variations, each tweaking different elements. In the end, the final design pays homage with its signature red and a gleaming gold touch, a subtle nod to its remastered essence.
The process saw several versions before landing on the current logo. Can you share more about that journey of inspiration?
Maintaining the iconic text and color while reflecting the remaster was crucial. We explored several directions, from dabbling with colors inspired by previous Lunar titles to experimenting with distinctive accents, like the dragon sword and the game’s visual symbols. The final blend of concepts from various drafts led to what we proudly use today.
Are there elements of the final logo that stand out to you?
Definitely! The elongated tail on the ‘R’ in "Remastered" is a particular favorite of mine, echoing the original styling. We exaggerated certain serifs for letters like R, E, and N, lending added flair and interest to the design language.
Toshiyuki Kubooka, the original Lunar artist, contributed new visuals for the remaster. What kind of impact did that have on your packaging design?
Mr. Kubooka’s art, steeped in intricate compositions, was a visual delight that drew me in. His refreshed darker backgrounds added depth to the overall look. Translating this into the packaging was straightforward, with minor layout tweaks ensuring everything fit beautifully into the cover’s constraints.
For the back cover, you had more creative liberty. What were your considerations in that design?
I was eager to incorporate pixel sprites on the back cover, their nostalgic charm and character in pixel form adding a delightful touch. Screenshots provided an overview of the game world, while the "Remastered" elements like gold tones and fonts maintained brand coherence. My objective was to emphasize both individual game elements and the collection as a whole, achieved through gradient transitions in sections.
What was your highlight in designing the package?
Working under Mr. Kubooka’s artistic direction was a rare and rewarding experience. This project was a true team effort, with valuable input from GungHo’s Marketing, Production teams, and Game Arts. This package stands as a testament to our collective dedication and creativity, and I hope it delights fans as much as we delighted in making it!
The Lunar: Remastered Collection is now available on Xbox, inviting players to relive the magic of two cherished JRPGs, enhanced for a new generation of gamers. Whether revisiting your beloved tales or diving in for the first time, this edition promises a nostalgic journey like never before.
