Alien Isolation: Improvise

Glasgow-based Axis Animation has once again turned its hand to developing this impressive trailer for game Alien: Isolation, a title from SEGA and Creative Assemly.

Set 15 years after the events of Alien, it is now 2137 and Ellen Ripley's daughter, Amanda, enters a desperate battle for survival on a mission to unravel the truth behind her mother's disappearance.

The trailer, directed by Ben Hibon, hones in on the game's tense nature and feeling of fear. The trailer begins with Ripley scavenging for materials in the deserted space station before the Alien appears, stalking its prey. Almost frozen with fear Ripley evades the creature and retreats to what she perceives as safety.

“What makes Alien: Isolation so interesting as a game is that you as the player are completely underprepared and underpowered” says director Ben Hibon. “We had to ensure that was clear in our trailer. By keeping our story simple, a cat and mouse chase between Ripley and the creature, we focused very much on the fear in her eyes and face, her vulnerability.”

The Axis team had to deliver a compelling performance from Ripley with the subtlety of the characters facial performance being paramount. Special attention was given to facial rigging to allow the animators to craft believable emotions.

“Working on the Alien franchise has been such a pleasure.” adds Axis executive producer and managing director Richard Scott. “Not only is Ben a massive fan of the original film but so is every other member of our crew. The original film is still fantastic and has stood the test of time and now the game is delivering the same amazing mood and setting.”