Author: Arpit Deb

This week, I thought about what I want to do for my FMP thesis. I’ve always been interested in 3D animation, so I knew I wanted to pick a topic related to that. I didn’t want to choose just anything — I wanted something that feels important and connected to what’s happening in the industry now.

I looked at how animation is changing with new tools and technology. I also thought about how animation isn’t just about how it looks — it can tell stories and show emotions too. I tried to balance my interest in the technical side with the creative and emotional side.

After doing some research and watching industry talks, I came up with these three topic ideas:

1. The Evolution of Character Design in Games: From Low-Poly Aesthetics to AAA
2. Animating the Essence of Anime: Translating 2D Stylization Principles into 3D Character Animation
3. Beyond Realism: The Appeal of Stylized Motion in Anime-Inspired 3D Animation

In the end, I chose The Evolution of Character Design in Games. I’m really interested in how game characters have changed over time, from simple designs to highly detailed AAA characters. This topic lets me explore both how the visuals have improved and how character design affects storytelling and player connection.

For this assignment, I’m writing a draft literature review for my final major project (FMP) thesis. I need to pick a research question related to our course, explain my research goals (150–200 words), and find academic sources to support my ideas. This will help build the base for my thesis proposal. I’ll use Harvard referencing and make sure all sources are cited properly. The feedback I get on this will help me improve my final proposal.

Nigel asked us some questions to help us think about our interests and how they link to our FMP. Here are my answers:

1. What area do you want to focus on after graduation?
   I want to work on character modeling and animation in films and games. I enjoy building detailed characters with a good story.
2. What skills do you need?
   I need to improve my animation and get better at world-building in Unreal Engine. I’ve started learning these in Term 1 but need more practice.
3. How will you show your FMP?
   My FMP will be a short film that shows my skills in storytelling, animation, and character design. It will be shown at the final exhibition.
4. Is your thesis connected to your practical work?
   Yes. Both focus on stylization, virtual worlds, and themes like motivation and getting lost in digital spaces like games.
5. Is any of your research unrelated to your film?
   No, all of it is linked. The research helps shape the ideas in my film.