While I try to focus on projects like this that have downloads available, I am making an exception here. This project is just too cool to ignore and deserves more attention. What if Super Castlevania IV on the Super Nintendo had dynamic lighting? A simple idea that you would think would add tons of atmosphere to the Konami classic. You would be right and one fan is showing us just how cool it is. This Is not running on a standard SNES, or SNES emulator, though.
Let There Be Light
I am a budding Unreal Engine user and have struggled with lighting in my projects since before I placed the first object. Lighting is so important to setting a mood. Super Castlevania IV on the Super Nintendo, while a great looking game, is lacking in the lighting department. The graphics all seem to be viewed via the same filter of sorts. Not much is going on in the lighting department.
I know, you are mad as hell I would say something like that. Check out the emedded video below then come back and tell me I am wrong.
Subtle but Impressive Results
For the most part, the lighting being added is subtle. The other graphical enhancements really make the lighting stand out. For one, the game is slightly brighter, more robust, in certain aspects while vibrant where candles and light sources are.
The lighting even effects the characters. As they approach a candle they get brighter. The textures around the candles are brighter, destroy the candle and they dissipate to match the surroundings.
This may sound like a nothing burger but, seriously, check it out in action above. Words cannot explain it as well as seeing it in action.
As mentioned already, this is not running on real hardware or a regular emulator. YouTube content creator, Life2Build is using a special “runtime” fork of Snes9x. I have no idea how this works, I just know the results are impressive.
What do you think? What games would you like to see receive similar treatment? I personally think Contra on the SNES would absolutely rock with dynamic lighting.