Halloween Horror Nights
Theme Parks & Attractions, Interactive Entertainment, Global
Viewer Discretion Advised. 18+
Brief
One of the largest and most robust collaborations we've been involved in was with Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights 2023 for the new Haunted House based on The Last of Us Part I story. This event stands as one of the biggest Halloween and horror celebrations across Theme Parks and Attractions globally. It presented The Last of Us franchise with the opportunity to fully embrace its horror elements and craft a truly unique experience.
2023
Client
Universal Studios / Naughty Dog / PlayStation
Scope
Art Direction / Branding / Graphic Design
THE FIRST VIDEO GAME PROPERTY IN HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS’ HISTORY
This was the first time in the franchise’s history that we could play in the horror genre, fully. We meticulously approached all brand materials, aiming for the most classic horror treatments feasible while preserving the essence of the game's Action Adventure Survival storytelling.
In my role as the art director and brand ambassador for Naughty Dog’s contributions, I spearheaded all creative developments related to The Last of Us: overseeing marque artwork, marketing collateral, trailers, fabrication, costuming, food and beverage, merchandise, as well as collaborating on the design of the haunted house with Universal’s Senior Director.
DEEP DIVE INTO AN AUTHENTIC HORROR EXPERIENCE
Through our close collaboration with Universal’s horror team, we brought to life the harrowing journey of Ellie and Joel as they ventured from Pittsburgh into the outskirts of a sewer village. Translating one of the most eerie and jump-scare laden segments of the video game felt like a natural fit.
We crafted iconic moments, revealing the ruthless nature of the Hunter factions within their butcher shop garage, descending through an elevator shaft into a hotel's ominous basement, navigating flooded floors with failing power generators, and culminating in a nerve-wracking encounter with a horde of infected, leading to a terrorizing bloater.
Universal’s Senior Director: Mike Aiello
Art Director: Joshua Bradley
3D Modeling: Sabrina Phillips & Eric Baldwin
Lighting Artist: Leandro Amaral & Haley Jones
Graphic Design - Interiors: Hailey Del Rio
Compositing: Universal Creative Team
©2023 Sony Interactive Entertainment. The Last of Us is a trademark of Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. Created and Developed by Naughty Dog LLC. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
*These projects were completed in-house during employment at Naughty Dog gaming studio and used to showcase skill sets only.