This is the first round of the Reapers’ Game which will be a series of games run by a Conductor and overseen by a Composer. Think of it like a game master (a GM from the MMORPG days) and a game’s director. Prompts will be given to Players (artists) with requirements and a time limit.
For Game 1, Players were asked the prompt:
“Draw me an illustration of a character you like (OC, games, anime, etc) in their daily life relaxing in Shibuya (Japan). Substitute backgrounds can be any modern-day city or in their own world. They can be wearing their normal outfits or modern-day streetwear. Bonus points for references to other games or anime.”
https://twitter.com/MistaSpoons/status/1474652902681681929
Coincidentally, there was a billboard in Shibuya showcasing NFTs at the same time as Game 1. Probably nothing...
https://twitter.com/piprycto/status/1485058494130622468
Let’s move on to the results. Thank you to the 22 Players participating in Game 1.
Submission Tweet:
Congratulations to PaleTear for winning Game 1!
This piece is a visual gem right at first glance. The iconic 104 building in the back and the frenetic pedestrian lines on the ground are an ode to the famous Scramble Crossing of Shibuya. The background is beautiful and detailed, but not to the point where the viewer is distracted from the subject.
The character herself is gorgeous and embodies a stoic/kuudere vibe. She’s fresh as can be, with a streetwear look that leans hard into the city vibes. The lighting details on the clothing give a sense of motion, which is accented with the pieces of paper flying around in the foreground. The hoverboard on the character's back is the icing on the metropolitan cake, a defiant statement that the future is here and the future is now.
Again, congratulations again to PaleTear for crafting this incredible work. I will be in touch shortly regarding the reward.
PaleTear’s Twitter:
Choosing a "winner" was a difficult decision and each of the following works are incredible in their own right. Moreso than their visual prowess, it's clear how much love and effort each artist has put into their work. I strongly encourage other Collectors to check them out on Foundation.
I’m sure you’ll find something you like.
Submission Tweet:
This piece absolutely needs a mention due to its sheer beauty. The image of a girl casually walking across the street with leaves/petals falling around her is a sight you’d see in high-budget anime. The monochromatic colors and style really showcase this artist’s mastery over color. It's a sight that makes you take a deep breath of relaxation.
Umi’s Twitter:
Submission Tweet:
This incredible piece showcases a Shibuya seen through a vaporwave lens, replete with a holographic whale floating above the city streets. Our main character is in a suspended state of observation, watching pedestrians as life passes by. This work proves that vaporwave isn't dead - far from it.
CharNim’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FancyCharNim
Submission Tweet:
This piece is like a breath of fresh air. A young girl pauses for a brief moment on her morning stroll to simply take in the present moment in downtown Shibuya. The bliss that this piece portrays is unreal, from the ethereal colors to the delicate bokeh from countless glass facades. It’s an atmospheric piece at heart.
Pokke San’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/smurtz_art
Submission Tweet:
This piece is what “fuwa fuwa” is all about. The comfy feeling you get at first glance puts your mind at ease, allowing you to enjoy the art peacefully. The smile of the girl on the left is so pure that you can’t help but give into her joy. Meeting a friend at a train station with a smile on your face is a nostalgic memory many can relate to.
Yui’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/YuiShiiiiii
Submission Tweet:
A go-kart race turned police chase, this work crams the thrill and excitement of the city into a single action-packed frame. The glowing signs and the color of the characters embody the energy of going out with a friend to have a good time. The details of the shoes and the go-kart are well done, and the colors blur as you look up the piece, making it a seamless viewing experience.
Strawberry Simon’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/simonahues
The intention for this prompt was to see how artists would handle an optional commission that requested both a high-quality background and a high-quality character. It was enjoyable to see how each artist approached the prompt and how their art came out. The second intention was to be a tribute to another game that’s dear to my heart, which features the Reapers’ Game and Shibuya.
For Game 2, here's a small hint: motion.
I hope all Players and viewers of the Reapers’ Game had a good time. I’ll see you all in the next Game.
P.S: Please keep in mind the judgment of the game is just my opinion. I don’t have any formal fine art training or official credibility. I’m simply a human who likes anime and art.