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Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Space Invaders Project for Google

Software & Plugins

• Cinema 4D

• Adobe After Effects

• Octane Render

• Keentools GeoTracker

Introduction

In July 2023, Google launched the Space Invaders project, a nostalgic yet modern homage to the classic arcade game to showcase their brand new Geospatial API and AR features. I was fortunate to be part of the talented team that brought this project to life. As a motion graphics freelancer, my role focused on creating the stunning visual effects (VFX) that transformed this concept into a visually dynamic reality.

This article offers an insider’s perspective on the creative process, the software techniques we employed, and the lessons learned during the production. From leveraging Cinema 4D and Adobe After Effects to tackling challenges like 3D tracking and compositing, here's how we turned ideas into immersive visuals.

The Brief: Breathing New Life into Space Invaders

Google's vision was clear: reimagine Space Invaders for a modern audience while maintaining its retro charm. The project was set against real-world urban backdrops, blending classic game elements with live-action footage. This required seamless integration of VFX into filmed environments to make the iconic Invaders appear realistic and otherworldly.

Pre-Production: Planning the Attack

Concept Development

Our journey began with brainstorming and storyboarding. Google wanted the Invaders to hover above cities and interact subtly with the environment, emphasising scale and nostalgia. This step involved iterating on designs, movement styles, and visual tone to ensure the final product resonated with audiences.

Teaser Preparation

Before tackling the main project, we worked on a teaser to test ideas and workflows. This early exploration helped establish:

• Invader movement patterns – Balancing realistic motion with a retro aesthetic.

• Lighting and compositing approaches – Testing HDRIs (High Dynamic Range Images) for accurate scene integration.

• Software workflows – Syncing between Cinema 4D and Adobe After Effects.

VFX Production: Building the Invaders

Tracking and Camera Integration

The first major hurdle was tracking. Using After Effects’ camera tracking and KeenTools GeoTracker, we pinpointed the positions and movements within the live-action footage. This data was exported to Cinema 4D, where it served as the foundation for placing the 3D models.

Creating the 3D Invaders

In Cinema 4D, we worked with a library of Invader models provided by the UNIT9 team. These were retextured using the Octane plugin to ensure vibrant colours and reflective surfaces that popped against the urban backdrops. Key steps included:

• Positioning and movement: Projecting footage into the Cinema 4D workspace to align models correctly.

• Lighting setup: Leveraging on-location HDRIs for realistic light and shadow interactions.

• Animation: Developing smooth, deliberate movements that mirrored the Invaders’ classic patterns.

Rendering the Scene

After animating and positioning the Invaders, we rendered image sequences. The Octane plugin helped achieve a polished look, ensuring our models interacted believably with the environment.

Compositing: Blending Real and Digital

The rendered sequences were imported back into Adobe After Effects, where the final compositing took place. This stage involved:

• Colour grading to match the lighting and tone of the live-action footage.

• Adding effects, such as motion blur and subtle glow, to enhance realism.

Incorporating interactive elements, like the in-phone ship control, which tied the digital and physical worlds together.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Integrating HDRI Lighting

Capturing accurate HDRIs on location was critical. This ensured the lighting on the 3D models matched the environment, but it required meticulous setup and calibration to avoid mismatches.

2. Synchronising Workflows

Seamless data exchange between After Effects and Cinema 4D was essential. Exporting camera tracking data and aligning 3D elements demanded precision, which was achieved through repeated testing during the teaser phase.

3. Balancing Nostalgia with Innovation

Striking the right tone was a creative challenge. The Invaders had to feel faithful to the original game while integrating into modern, real-world settings. Regular feedback sessions with the creative team ensured alignment with Google's vision.

Software Insights: Cinema 4D and After Effects in Action

Why Cinema 4D?

• Intuitive 3D modeling and animation tools for creating the Invaders.

• Compatibility with the Octane plugin, enabling realistic texturing and rendering.

• Smooth integration with After Effects for compositing.

Why Adobe After Effects?

• Robust camera tracking capabilities for accurate 3D placement.

• Flexible tools for compositing and colour grading.

• Support for external plugins to enhance visual effects.

What I Learned as a Freelancer

This project was a masterclass in collaboration and technical expertise. Some key takeaways:

• Efficient workflows save time and headaches: Testing with a teaser was invaluable.

• Communication is key: Frequent updates and feedback sessions kept the project on track.

Adapting to challenges builds resilience: Each hurdle sharpened our problem-solving skills.

Impact and Reception

The Space Invaders project was a hit, celebrated for its nostalgic appeal and modern execution. It demonstrated the power of blending classic elements with cutting-edge technology, earning praise from fans and professionals alike.

FAQs

1. What software was used for the Space Invaders project?
We primarily used Cinema 4D for 3D modelling and animation and Adobe After Effects for compositing and tracking.

2. How were the 3D models integrated with real-world footage?
Camera tracking in After Effects provided positional data, which was exported to Cinema 4D for alignment and animation. HDRIs captured on location ensured realistic lighting.

3. What role did HDRIs play in the project?
HDRIs were used to recreate the lighting conditions of the filming location, helping the 3D models blend seamlessly into the footage.

4. How long did the project take to complete?
The main production phase spanned several weeks, with additional time for the teaser and testing workflows.

5. What were the biggest challenges in creating the VFX?
Synchronising workflows between software, ensuring accurate lighting, and balancing nostalgia with innovation were among the top challenges.

6. How did the teaser contribute to the final project?
The teaser served as a practice run, allowing the team to test ideas and workflows before tackling the full project.

Conclusion

The Space Invaders project for Google was a rewarding experience, showcasing the potential of collaboration and cutting-edge tools. For me, it underscored the power of creativity and technology to breathe new life into iconic stories.

Credits

Produced by: @unit9films @Unit9ltd

Producer: @jackcontraband

Director: @ant.rubinstein

DOP: @sammeyerdop

1st AD: @andrewmpotter

Production designer: @theo.boswell

Gaffer: @dop_e_gaffer

Steadicam: @beauxpj

Wardrobe: @popsybell

VFX: @grizzlelondon

Editor: @searchpartyhq

Colour: @thomasmangham @blackkitestudios

Cast: @emmahemingford Jordan Akande

Grizzle Credits:

Lead VFX & VFX Supervisor: Freddie Littlewood

VFX Supervisor & Compositing: George Stocking

VFX & Technical Art: Asta Fawn

2D Design & Motion Graphics: Hannah Faye Johnson

VFX: Tom Paddon

VFX: Iain McCall