Shadows of Them
Shadows of Them is a first-person psychological horror game that follows a mother’s journey through grief after the tragic loss of her family. Set in an eerie, abandoned metro station, players must navigate a series of challenges while the protagonist is trapped in a haunting, endless loop. As the project manager and a key contributor, I was responsible for ensuring smooth collaboration among our team of 8, keeping everyone on track to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work over the course of two months.
In addition to overseeing the project, I also took on the roles of level designer, environment artist, and 3D asset creation. I designed the underground tube station where the game takes place, which I then modeled, textured, and integrated into Unity. Other assets I created for the level include escalators, signage, and a wrecked car that adds to the atmosphere of unease.
As level designer and environment artist, I aimed to create a claustrophobic yet immersive setting that would reflect the main character’s internal turmoil. The metro station itself became a metaphor for feeling stuck in grief—a space that seems familiar but becomes increasingly distorted as the player progresses. The design of the station, along with details like overturned cars and flickering lights, creates an oppressive atmosphere that intensifies the character’s emotional journey.
A standout feature was securing Janine Cooper-Marshall, the voice of Great Western Railway, to record the in-game train announcements, adding an authentic and eerie touch to the overall atmosphere.
Through carefully designed levels, poignant soundscapes, and attention to detail, Shadows of Them delivers an emotional narrative where players are drawn into the protagonist’s struggle, making them feel the weight of loss and the eerie isolation that comes with it. This project was a true team effort, and I’m proud of the cohesive and emotionally driven experience we were able to create in such a short time frame.