Isometric perspective is one of the simplest and most proven ways of creating a three-dimensional effect on a two-dimensional plane. It helps convey a sense of depth, adds detail to the art style, and makes the game comfortable for players.
This article explains what isometric perspective is, how it works, and how to use it to create a video game.
Isometric perspective—what is it?
Isometric perspective is a method of displaying objects that helps create the illusion of three-dimensional space on a flat surface. All isometric axes are equal in length, and the angles are 120 degrees. As a result, objects remain sharp and aren’t distorted, unlike when using perspective projection.
An example of isometric projection:
Source: AI-generated
Why is isometric perspective important to game developers?
- Clear navigation. Isometric perspective allows players to see the world above from a comfortable angle. This is especially important for strategy games where you must manage multiple objects simultaneously. For example, in the video game Age of Empires II, this POV helps you keep track of the action across the entire map.
Age of Empires II. Source
- Save resources. Isometric games use less computing power because they don’t require complex 3D perspectives to be calculated. This allows the game to run even on underperforming devices.
- Appealing visual style. Isometric perspective creates visually rich worlds that stand out from other games. For example, in Hades, isometric perspective provides excellent visibility of events and emphasizes the game’s art style.
Hades. Source
How an isometric game is created
To create an isometric game, you’ll start with three basic components: camera, grid, and objects. These elements lay the foundation for the entire gameplay.
Adjusting the camera and angle for isometric games
When using isometric perspective, the camera is fixed at a 45-degree angle. This creates a comfortable view for most game genres. Players can see both characters and the surroundings, which makes the whole process more intuitive.
- Fixed camera. Good for RPG and strategy games. For example, in Diablo II, it helps you focus on fighting and exploring the world.
- Movable camera. Great for strategies where the gamer controls large maps like in Age of Empires II.
- Dynamic camera. In a simulator game, such as The Sims, you can zoom in and out on objects (your house, separate rooms, objects) to view their details, changing the angles.
Tip: If your video game has tall objects such as buildings or trees, adjust the camera so that they don’t overlap with characters.
Grid structure
A grid is the base on which the entire isometric world is built. It helps you accurately place objects and manage their interactions.
2D grids are used in most isometric video games. They help place objects accurately on the isometric plane.
3D grids are suitable for games with different level heights, where characters can climb to elevated levels.
Game examples:
- In The Sims, the grid makes it convenient to place furniture and buildings.
- In Clash of Clans, it sets zones for buildings and character movements.
Tip: Adjust the size of the tiles according to the game’s style. 32×32 pixel tiles are suitable for minimalistic projects, while 64×64 tiles are suitable for detailed RPGs.
Designing characters and objects for isometric games
In an isometric game, objects and characters are designed with a fixed camera angle in mind. Keep in mind:
- Object scale. Characters, trees, and buildings should look proportional to one another. If the character is too small relative to their surroundings, they’ll be harder to see.
- Clear outlines. It highlights important characters and objects in the background.
- Dynamic elements. Allow the player to interact with objects—for example, doors that open or lamps that light up.
Example: in Hades, characters stand out thanks to bright accents and crisp lines that are easily distinguishable in saturated environments.
How to make an isometric game
Creating isometric games requires a balance between artistic vision and technical skill. Unity, Unreal Engine, or Godot engines are suitable for isometric game development—they provide tools for working with textures, animation, and lighting, thus simplifying the art process.
Below are the basic steps for creating an isometric world.
Isometric projections and game style
The art style of the game determines its mood and the player’s first impression. It’s important in isometric games that all of the elements (environment, characters, objects) look harmonious and are done in the same art style.
How do you choose an art style?
- Think of the genre. For simulators like Stardew Valley, bright colors and simple shapes are appropriate for the art style.
Stardew Valley. Source
For RPGs or strategies, like Diablo II, opt for darker hues and more intricate details in the artwork.
Diablo II. Source
- Make rough sketches. Sketches can help you visualize levels and characters. They speed up the development process by giving you a clear idea of what everything should look like.
- Limit your color palette. Use a few base shades to make the game’s art look cohesive—fantasy games often use warm and natural tones, while science fiction games go for cool shades.
Tiles and scale
The grid defines the structure of the isometric world, while tile size affects the detail of the game.
How to choose tile size?
- 32×32 pixels. Suitable for games with a simplified style and a lot of objects, like strategy or puzzle games.
Example: Into the Breach. Source
- 64×64 pixels. Used in RPGs and other genres where a high level of detail is required, for example, to display architecture or interiors.
Example: Celeste. Source
Tip: Test different grid sizes to find the balance between detail and performance.
Character and object development
The main elements that players interact with in an isometric game are the characters and objects. Their design should be simple but striking.
Keep in mind:
- Proportions. Characters and objects should look natural relative to each other. For example, if the character is shorter than a tree (like in real life), players can navigate better.
- Striking details. Add accents to characters that make them stand out: unusual accessories, colorful clothing, unique facial features.
- Shadows and lighting. Proper lighting can help add volume to characters and objects. Shadows create a sense of depth.
Tip: Test how characters look in different locations to make sure they don’t blend in with the background.
Animation in isometric games
Animation makes video games come alive. Characters should move smoothly and naturally so that players enjoy watching their actions.
How do I customize the animation?
- Take note of which direction you’re traveling. Create separate animations for up, down, left, right, and diagonal movements. This is important for RPGs and strategies where character movements are frequent.
- Coordinate the movements with the grid. Make sure the character’s animations match the corners of the grid so that the movements look logical.
- Add the fine details. For example, animating the character’s breathing so they don’t look static.
How to maintain image quality in an isometric game
To make the game appealing, pay attention to lighting, textures, and surroundings.
Lighting
Light helps to highlight important objects and create the right atmosphere.
- Highlight key locations. For example, entrances to buildings, important areas, or characters. This immediately catches the player’s attention.
- Add soft shadows. They make objects three-dimensional and realistic. Shadows shouldn’t overwhelm the screen, but they should emphasize the scene’s depth.
- Set the mood. For example, in Diablo II, lighting makes dungeons look gloomy, but in Stardew Valley, light adds coziness.
Tip: Test lighting under different conditions—day, night, and weather changes. This will help you create a game world that is alive.
Object textures
Textures in isometric games should be detailed, but not so much as to overwhelm the system. The best approach is to divide them into major and minor elements.
- Main objects. Buildings, characters, and key elements should look crisp since the gamer is looking at them most of the time.
- Background details. Trees, bushes, and small objects can be made simpler. This will reduce the load on the game.
- Pre-made texture sets. Create a library of textures with different details to quickly add them to your project.
Tip: Check how the textures look when you zoom in and out—they should be crisp at any scale.
Environment details
Small details make the video game lively and interesting.
- Animations. Trees that sway in the wind, water that flows, or NPCs going about their business make the world more realistic.
- Objects response. Let objects interact with players: doors open, and grass sways if you walk near it.
- Examples. In The Sims, furniture and objects are animated, making the game believable.
Tip: Complete the environment with sounds—wind blowing, birdsong, or NPC conversations will add to the atmosphere.
Top 5 games for inspiration on how to use isometric projections
These projects will help you understand how to effectively utilize this perspective. Each shows different approaches to design, gameplay, and visual style.
- Diablo II: Classic dystopian fantasy gameplay
Genre: Action RPG
The inspiration: Diablo II has become the benchmark for many role-playing games. Here developers used isometric perspective to create a deep sense of darkness and mystery. Gamers are immersed in a dark world full of dangers and secret powers.
Diablo II. Source
Features:
- Lighting. The game uses dark colors and dynamic lighting effects that enhance the sense of danger.
- Elaborate levels. Each subterranean labyrinth or open area was designed by developers to constantly keep the player in suspense.
- Easy operation. The static camera allows players to focus on combat without being distracted by complex manipulations.
How to use this in your game: If you want to create an RPG with a dark atmosphere, pay attention to the lighting and level design. Create the environment so that players feel like they’re in the world.
- Hades: dynamics and style in one project
Genre: Roguelike action
The inspiration: Hades showed that isometric projections are suitable for fast fights. The game combines fast-paced gameplay with a rich art style. The developers emphasized detail to make each battle spectacular and make the environments memorable.
Hades. Source
Features:
- Animated characters. The protagonist’s and enemies’ movements look smooth and dynamic, which makes the battles exciting.
- Range of color in the art. The variety of environments and color schemes used by developers emphasizes the uniqueness of each level.
- Relaxed timeline. The camera allows you to see enemies and traps, making control intuitive.
How to use this in your game: If you’re working on an action-oriented game, focus on the animations and add striking visual accents. Make sure the camera captures all the important gameplay elements.
- Stardew Valley: cozy, freedom of choice
Genre: Farm simulator
The inspiration: Stardew Valley is appealing because of its simplicity. The game allows players to relax, build a farm, and explore the village. Developers used isometric perspective here to make the world relatable and cozy.
Stardew Valley. Source
Features:
- Simple shapes and bright colors. The object and environmental design helps gamers navigate quickly.
- Intuitive placement of objects. The grid helps you easily build houses and fences, plus place plants.
- Details that bring the world to life. Animals, growing trees, and changing seasons keep the gameplay varied.
How to use this in your game: If you want to create a simulation or construction game, focus on the design of the environment’s details. Add elements that allow players to personalize their world.
- Age of Empires II: a benchmark for strategy
Genre: Real-time strategy
The inspiration: Age of Empires II remains one of the most popular strategy games thanks to the developer’s use of user-friendly controls and well-designed maps.
Age of Empires II. Source
Features:
- Clear interface. Despite the simplicity of the isometric projection, all of the elements are highly detailed.
- User-friendly controls. Players can easily select buildings and squads and give commands.
- Range of strategies. Choose from all manner of different development paths and battle tactics.
How to use this in your game: If you’re working on a strategy game, focus on controls and visuals. Make sure that all of the map’s elements are distinguishable, even in a busy design.
- Clash of Clans: isometric projections for mobile devices
Genre: Mobile strategy
The inspiration: Clash of Clans shows how to adapt isometric projections for mobile devices. The ease of interaction and clear interface make it accessible to a wide audience.
Clash of Clans. Source
Features:
- Grid for construction. Gamers can easily place buildings thanks to the structured grid.
- Minimalism in the details. Simple shapes and soft colors make the game comfortable for the eyes.
- Animations that add depth. The movement of troops and destruction of buildings bring the gameplay to life.
How to use this in your game: If you’re creating an isometric mobile video game, emphasize ease of interaction. Make sure players can easily control all of the objects.
The future of isometric games
The isometric style that we know well continues to have a place in the industry by adapting to new technologies, particularly AI. In 2024–2025, isometric game development will not only retain its recognizable aesthetics but also become more accessible to developers through AI-based tools and VR and AR formats.
AI as an assistant in creating art
Fears that AI could replace artists are exaggerated. As it stands, AI helps to speed up the process of creating art, remaining only a supportive tool. It generates concepts and textures that creators refine by hand, adding unique details to the art. For example, AI programs offer several object designs or textures for an isometric game, and the final choice and refinement of the game art is left to humans.
AI technology is especially valuable for smaller studios that have limited resources. AI allows you to create more content in a shorter period while still maintaining a high level of quality. The generation of animations, textures, and concept art is getting faster, and the creative part of the process is left to real people.
AR and VR for expanding worlds
Augmented and virtual reality add new levels of interactivity to isometric games. Strategy or RPG scenes can be viewed on a real surface using a smartphone screen with AR. For example, a player’s city can appear right on the table.
VR allows gamers to delve deeper into isometric game worlds. Virtual reality allows you to explore your surroundings from different perspectives, adding more freedom and new experiences. These technologies make isometric games more immersive and diverse.
In summary: the most important things to know about isometric games
- What is isometric perspective?
Isometric perspective is a method of creating a three-dimensional effect on a flat surface. Objects remain sharp and undistorted, with 120-degree angles between axes.
- What kind of game is isometric projection suitable for?
Isometric projection is great for strategies, RPGs, and simulators. It works well where you need easy visibility and control of multiple objects. Examples: Diablo II, Age of Empires II, and Stardew Valley.
- How is an isometric game built?
Isometric games use a 45-degree camera angle, a grid for precise object placement, and clear and simplified models.
- How do you create an isometric game?
To create an isometric game, customize the grid, adjust the art style, work out animations, use AI to speed things up, and test details.
