How can weapon design affect gameplay By Alex Mikulonok Content Manager at RetroStyle Games | Jan 27, 2025 Ask a Question Some game developers underestimate the power of weapons in video game design. Still, like with the character’s facial features or the textures, you can build a story around your game, and create a whole universe. Sometimes the unique design of a weapon can be why people bought your game — take the design of hidden blades in the Assassin’s Creed series for example and multiple attempts to recreate such blades in real life. Or, consider the Doom: The Dark Age’s recently released gun that went viral on social media (it’s a gun that uses skulls as firearms). It became famous not only among fans of the series or even gamers at all — people just think it’s a cool and crazy thing to repost.By looking at these examples we can spot something in common — unique and unforgettable design. So, how to make a good and unique weapon design? You’ll have to start with concept weapon art, take quite some time, and dozens of sketches to make something outstanding. Before thinking about how to create an authentic weapon it’s recommended to get inspired by something already made. How to design weapons for different game genres: what 3D weapon designer should consider How to design a gun? A good weapon design can engage players, and make them choose what kind of tactics they will use, so they can approach the same quest in different ways. Yes, most of the time one weapon (even the coolest one) isn’t enough, and you’ll need to create a bunch of them. To make it a weapon designer probably has to ask yourself: What time and world are we talking about? If it’s a Tolkien-like fantasy, the firearms will look silly, and different swords and axes will be a good choice. If you’re into sci-fi, take inspiration from a futuristic design like Cyberpunk 2077. Or if you want to make a game about modern warfare, just look at the current arsenals of various armies around the world. 3D game modeling services can help you to quicken the process of weapon development bringing new ideas. How will this weapon be used? If we’re talking about firearms: how will the weapon be reloaded, will it slow the character down? What kind of material is it made of? Can it be modified? If you want to make medieval-like weapons: do the shapes and sizes of video game guns or any other weapons reflect the character’s race, class, or skills? Do you want to use traditional weapon concepts like “the elves use bows, dwarfs use hammers and people have swords”? There are also free assets that exist on the internet you can download and modify — like our 3D military assets. How realistic are we talking about? It depends on the genre. Usually, if you make a survival shooter for example you forget about uniqueness and try to make believable weapons based on real-life ones. It’s a different story when it’s fiction, here you can be as original as you like. The question is how real will your weapons be? A gigantic glowing axe made of glass and precious stones isn’t the most practical thing you can imagine. But is it cool though? You aren’t obliged to make a weapon that will be suitable to use in reality. Bloodborne weapons design In some games, weapons can transform. For example, in Bloodborne a simple hammer can evolve into a double hammer as the player progresses, adding variety and depth to the gameplay. 1Logarius' WheelIt is exactly what it sounds like — a large, metal wheel mounted on a handle, akin to a grotesque medieval torture device. In its standard form, the wheel is used to bludgeon enemies with crushing blows. The weapon can be transformed by the player's character to unfurl part of the wheel, revealing a set of inner spikes that increase its lethality and change its attack patterns. The weapon is heavy and slow, making timing crucial when wielding it. It excels at dealing massive damage to single targets (with the right build). It can be particularly effective against larger enemies or bosses due to its high stagger potential.2Saw CleaverThis is perhaps the most iconic weapon of “Bloodborne”, featured prominently in the game's promotional material. The Saw Cleaver can switch between a short, quick cleaver and a longer, more lethal blade with greater range and damage.3Threaded CaneThis weapon starts as a refined cane but can transform into a deadly whip. The Threaded Cane is favored for its elegance and range, making it an excellent choice for crowd control.4KirkhammerA unique combination of a sword and a hammer, the Kirkhammer allows players to switch between a fast sword and a massive hammer that deals devastating blows.5Ludwig's Holy BladeA weapon that combines the quick strikes of a sword and the powerful blows of a large two-handed greatsword. It's a favorite among players for its balance of speed and strength.6Blade of MercyA pair of dual-wielded daggers that excel in quick successive attacks. These are particularly effective for players who prefer agility and fast combat tactics.7BloodletterA weapon that transforms from a mace into a blood-infused weapon, dealing massive damage at the cost of the player's health.8Whirligig SawKnown informally as the “pizza cutter”, this weapon features a serrated blade that spins rapidly, perfect for dealing with groups of enemies or dealing continuous damage to larger foes.9Amygdalan ArmA weapon made from the arm of a creature from the game, which acts like a club in its untransformed state and has a long-reaching, autonomous claw attack when transformed. Dark Souls series weapons design Dark Souls 1 1Guardian TailIt is a weapon that resembles the tail of a scorpion and is quite a unique find in “Dark Souls”. Players can acquire this whip-like weapon by severing the tail of the Sanctuary Guardian, a boss in the game. This creature, a ferocious mix of lion and bird with a scorpion's tail, can be found guarding the entry to the Oolacile Sanctuary in the DLC “Artorias of the Abyss”. As well as its exotic appearance, the weapon also can inflict poison damage on enemies. This makes it a tactical asset in a variety of combat situations. What are game assets btw? You can learn it from our other article.2Dragonslayer SpearA spear said to be used by the God of War (no, not THAT God of War, the other one). It’s imbued with lightning and can shoot bolts of electricity, mirroring the abilities of the gods.3Gravelord SwordThis sword is tied to the lore of Nito, the First of the Dead. It has a toxic effect on enemies and features a bone-like design that fits the macabre aesthetic of its wielder.4Quelaag's FuryswordCrafted from the soul of the Chaos Witch Quelaag, this curved sword is imbued with fire and flourishes if the wielder's humanity is high, reflecting the tragic nature of its original owner. Dark Souls 2 1Puzzling Stone SwordA sword with a segmented blade that can extend like a whip, allowing for both close and ranged attacks. This flexibility makes it a versatile and surprising weapon.2Ivory King Ultra GreatswordThis large sword is made from the soul of the Ivory King and features a blade that can be enveloped in a sheath of ice, adding frost damage to its already devastating swings.3Smelter SwordAn ultra greatsword that ignites with a fiery aura when swung. It's forged from the soul of the Smelter Demon and can unleash a fiery explosion upon strong attacks.4Ivory Straight SwordIt is crafted from the soul of Aava, the King's Pet, a boss found in the “Crown of the Ivory King” DLC. Its design is sleek and futuristic, featuring a handle that emits a blade of pure light, much like a lightsaber. This ethereal blade not only visually sets it apart from more traditional medieval weaponry typically found in “Dark Souls” but also functions with a distinct set of mechanics. The Ivory Straight Sword in Dark Souls II is a fascinating weapon. Not only does it have a unique design, but it also resembles the iconic imagery of a lightsaber from the Star Wars franchise. This resemblance might suggest that the designers were potentially inspired by the famous science fiction weapon. Dark Souls 3 1Farron GreatswordThis greatsword is unique in that it comes paired with a dagger by default, which is very unique for this series. The dagger is used not for stabbing but for parrying, and the greatsword is used in a sweeping motion, perfect for crowd control. This weapon pays homage to the Abyss Watchers and their unique fighting style.2Yhorm's Great MacheteA giant machete that belongs to Yhorm the Giant, one of the game's Lords of Cinder. It deals massive damage and can send foes flying with its heavy attacks.3Dancer's Enchanted SwordsThese twin swords, each imbued with fire and dark magic, mirror the graceful yet deadly dance of their original wielder, the Dancer of the Boreal Valley. They allow for a fluid and dynamic combat style.4The Dark HandIt appears as a gauntlet-like weapon that can be equipped either as a shield or as a melee weapon. Its design is minimalistic, with a dark, ethereal quality that resonates with its abilities and the overall aesthetic of the game. The “Dark Hand” in the “Dark Souls” is a unique weapon that serves multiple purposes. It's one of the more enigmatic tools available to players, blurring the lines between a weapon and a magical artifact. Fallout Series Gun Design Besides being one of the best games where you can customize your character, this game series is known for its wide range of unique weapons. For example, there is a special weapon that can only be obtained through a specific quest, and it emits deadly rays similar to those from a space satellite. The Fallout series also introduces a crafting system that allows players to modify weapons, including turning a regular pistol into a laser or plasma weapon. Fallout 1 Turbo Plasma Rifle An upgraded version of the standard Plasma Rifle, the Turbo Plasma Rifle fires much faster, making it one of the deadliest energy weapons in the game. Alien Blaster A small, handheld weapon of extraterrestrial origin that delivers tremendous damage with almost guaranteed critical hits. Fallout 2 Bozar Originally intended as a heavy sniper rifle, the Bozar in-game acts more like a light machine gun that uses sniper rounds. Its high rate of massive damage output makes it a standout weapon. Pulse Rifle Specifically designed to combat robots and power-armored foes, the Pulse Rifle emits electromagnetic pulses that can fry circuits and bypass heavy metal plating. Fallout 3 Experimental MIRV A variant of the Fat Man, which is a tactical nuclear catapult, the Experimental MIRV can launch multiple mini-nukes at once, essentially obliterating anything in its vicinity. Railway Rifle This makeshift weapon fires railway spikes at high velocity, pinning enemies to walls. It embodies the creative, jury-rigged aesthetic of weaponry that “Fallout 3” emphasized. Fallout: New Vegas 1Euclid's C-FinderA unique and incredibly powerful weapon that uses the power of the Archimedes II orbital laser platform. When used, it can call down a devastating laser strike from the sky. The weapon itself is a small, handheld device, resembling a toy gun, which makes its destructive power surprising.2This MachineA battle rifle that packs a significant punch. Named after the inscription “This Machine Kills Commies” found on its side, it’s a nod to historical and cultural elements of the era it represents. This weapon is highly effective in long-range combat and has a unique loading and firing sound that sets it apart from other rifles.3The Gobi Campaign Scout RifleLocated in a sniper's nest and locked behind a very high skill requirement. The Gobi Campaign Scout Rifle is a unique sniper rifle with enhanced damage, critical hit chance, and rate of fire compared to the standard models. Its lore ties it to pre-war military operations in the Gobi Desert, adding to its uniqueness.4Mysterious MagnumIt is a high-powered revolver that plays its own theme music whenever it is drawn or holstered, making a weapon in a game that is a dramatic statement. The weapon is linked to the Mysterious Stranger, enhancing its mystique and appeal.5Dinner BellIt is a unique pump-action shotgun that comes with improved damage and pellet count. It's earned through the completion of the “Bleed Me Dry” quest, given by Red Lucy in The Thorn. It's particularly effective for close-quarters combat and dealing with groups of enemies.6AnnabelleIt is an enhanced version of the standard missile launcher, featuring improved accuracy and reduced weight. It's typically carried by a Nightkin Sniper, making it a challenge to acquire. What makes Fallout New Vegas good? Apart from weapons, there are plenty of other details contributing to its popularity, check out our other article. Fallout 4 1Junk JetIt allows players to load almost any small item from their inventory as ammunition. This includes everything from silverware and toys to cash, turning what would be trash in any other game into deadly projectiles.2CryolatorIt is a gun designed by the Vault-Tec scientist as a prototype weapon, the Cryolator freezes enemies solid. Found early in the game, it's unique in that it combines the environmental storytelling of “Fallout” with practical in-game utility.3Kremvh’s ToothIt is a unique machete with a ritualistic and sinister appearance, fitted with a poisoned blade that causes bleeding and poison damage. It ties into the deeper lore of ancient and mysterious cults within the Commonwealth. Star Wars Republic Commando The main character, a commando of the Republic army, has a unique weapon system that can’t be found in any other game, named the “DC-17m Interchangeable Weapon System”. This system is notable for its adaptability, allowing the weapon to function in different combat scenarios, enhancing both the tactical depth and the immersion of the player. DC-17m Interchangeable Weapon System The DC-17m isn’t just a weapon; it’s a system that serves as the primary armament of the Republic Commandos. It has three main configurations:Blaster Rifle Mode: the standard configuration used for general engagement. It’s reliable, with a high rate of fire.Sniper Attachment: this configuration transforms the DC-17m into a long-range sniper rifle, equipped with a high-velocity scope and capable of taking out enemies at great distances.Anti-Armor Attachment: this setup turns the DC-17m into a powerful anti-armor weapon, firing explosive rounds effective against droids and heavily armored vehicles.Why is this system unique? Well, mostly because it isn’t your standard “Press 1, 2, 3” to change weapons. You still need to press those, but a new weapon doesn’t magically appear in your hands while your previous one disappears. You can see unique animations of changing modules every time you need a different weapon. DC-15s Side Arm Blaster Every commando carries this sidearm as a backup weapon. It’s less powerful than the primary weapon but is highly reliable in close-quarters combat. It’s compact, with a quick rate of fire, making it perfect for emergencies where reloading the primary weapon isn’t feasible. Wookiee Bowcaster In some missions, players can use a Wookiee Bowcaster, a traditional weapon crafted by the Wookiees of Kashyyyk. This weapon fires metal quarrels enveloped in energy, which can ricochet off surfaces and penetrate shields, making it highly effective in guerrilla warfare situations. Trandoshan Slaver Shotgun This is a powerful close-range weapon used by the Trandoshan slavers. It’s brutal at short distances, firing a spread of energy bolts that can quickly clear a room of enemies. Geonosian Elite Beam Weapon Encountered during missions on Geonosis, this weapon is wielded by Geonosian elites. It emits a continuous beam of energy that can quickly deplete a commando’s shields and health, posing a significant challenge in combat scenarios. Doom Weapon Designs Central to Doom is its weapon system, where players can gain power-ups that alter the appearance and functionality of their weapons. This aspect of gameplay adds a strategic layer as players decide which weapon modifications best suit their play style. Doom (1993) BFG 9000: perhaps the most iconic weapon of the franchise, the BFG 9000 discharges large balls of green plasma that cause massive damage on detonation, capable of clearing rooms of enemies in seconds.Chainsaw: offering a visceral melee option, the chainsaw allows players to engage demons up close, providing a reliable weapon that doesn’t consume ammo and deals continuous damage. Doom II (1994) Super Shotgun (Double-Barreled Shotgun): introduced in Doom II, the Super Shotgun quickly became a favorite for its devastating close-range damage, allowing players to take out most enemies with a single blast at close quarters. Doom 3 (2004) Soul Cube: unique to Doom 3, the Soul Cube is a mystical artifact that the player can throw at enemies. It attacks autonomously, drains health from the target, and transfers it to the player, linking its use strategically with the player’s health management. Doom (2016) Gauss Cannon: a precision weapon that can be charged to unleash a high-powered beam capable of penetrating multiple targets or dealing significant damage to bigger foes.BFG 9000: reintroduced with an updated design, the BFG 9000 in Doom 2016 spreads tendrils of deadly energy to any nearby enemies before its core projectile explodes, making it even more lethal than its original incarnation. Doom Eternal (2020) Crucible Sword: a new addition to the Doom Slayer’s arsenal, the Crucible is an energy blade that can instantly kill most demons with a single swing. It is limited in use by charges that must be replenished by finding pickups throughout the levels.Unmaykr: unlockable through completing in-game challenges, the Unmaykr is a rapid-fire energy weapon that shares ammo with the BFG 9000, a strategic choice on ammo usage between it and the BFG’s massive area damage. Ocean Keeper Weapons in Games In “Ocean Keeper”, the acting figure is the miner or just a “Digger”, and he is equipped with a drill. The Digger is piloting a Mech — a gigantic spider-like robot. With the Mech, you’ll be sent against hordes of enemies, while the Digger is used to dive deeper into the ocean looking for precious materials. And there are lots of them. While mining you will carry all the materials on your back, though as you progress you can pick up the ability to put up drones that will help with hauling resources. Of course, they will slow you down, which can be solved with upgrades. Also, you need to get all the material to the surface in time, because it’s running out. The game isn’t as simple as it presents itself to be. What else is in Ocean Keeper? Weapon system The core of the weapons in the game’s combat system revolves around the miner getting relics. You can get it by the same good old digging. The relic allows you to get new weapons or upgrade the old ones. The Ocean Keeper is one of the games with weapon customization — you start with only a machine gun and, later on, upgrade or change your base weapon. Everything can be upgraded, even the drill. Players can also upgrade and use different abilities depending on their tactical needs during the combat phase (e.g. put turrets that will shoot at enemies, like in a tower defense game). Resource-based crafting What’s cool about Ocean Keeper is that weapons are not just found but can also be upgraded. Players dive underwater caverns to scavenge rare materials hidden in the darkest corners of the ocean. These materials are then used to enhance Digger, Mech, Laser Cannon, and any other weapons you’ll get. So you have both a meta element (customizing weapons in the lobby) and a roguelike element (you start each game with minimal upgrades) in parallel. Defensive and tactical gear Beyond offensive weaponry, “Ocean Keeper” includes defensive tools and gadgets. These range from different weapons designed to shield and block incoming attacks. Or you can use explosives and sniper guns that can deal much more damage or be more precise. Find Ocean Keeper on Steam. Where to Get Weapon Design Ideas How to make a weapon? Designing weapons, whether for historical, contemporary, or fantastical settings, requires creativity, technical knowledge, and often, a deep dive into a variety of inspirational sources. Many groundbreaking game weapon designs have been inspired by observing existing technology and mechanical principles. For example, the development of the first practical machine gun was spurred by observing the mechanical movement caused by the recoil in firearms. This observation led to innovations that significantly altered the design and functionality of automatic weapons. 3D weapon designers can study mechanical devices, from everyday items to complex machinery, to understand how components move and interact. 1Historical artifactsStudying weapons from different historical periods can provide cool weapon ideas. European swords, Japanese katanas, and history offer a plethora of styles and functions that can be adapted or merged to create something novel.2Natural formsThe natural world is full of structural and functional marvels. Designers might take inspiration from the anatomy of animals, the way plants grow, or the physical properties of minerals. For example, the claws of a predatory animal might inspire a set of combat gauntlets or the spiraling shape of a seashell might translate into a helical sword blade.3Ask AIOf course, it can't create something game-ready, but it can inspire you to create something based on its original results. Our designers will polish these ideas and provide you with AI game concept art as a service.4Science and technologyAdvancements in technology can lead to futuristic cool weapon designs. Consider how laser technology, magnetic fields, or even theoretical physics (like black holes and antimatter) could be incorporated into weapon mechanics.5Pop Culture and MediaMovies, TV shows, video games, and comics are rich sources of inspiration. Iconic video game weapons like lightsabers from “Star Wars” or the gravity gun from “Half-Life” can inspire designers to think outside the conventional box and innovate on how weapons look, feel, and function.6Art and architectureThe principles of design used in concept art and architecture, such as form, balance, and symmetry, can be applied to game weapon design. An architecturally inspired weapon could incorporate geometric shapes and repeating patterns, creating a stunning piece that stands out in its environment.7Practical constraintsSometimes, necessity breeds invention. The limitations of a game's mechanics or the physical requirements of a prop for a film can lead to innovative design solutions. Designers might need to consider weight, balance, and user interface, leading to creative compromises that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.8Cross-cultural fusionsMixing elements from different cultures can produce intriguing results. A weapon could combine the ornate filigree of Arabian art with the robustness of a Western broadsword, for example, creating a piece that carries a story of cultural synthesis.9Use of art 3D animation outsourcing servicesIn addition to these inspiration sources, it’s highly recommended to consider using art outsourcing services, especially for projects with tight deadlines or specific expertise requirements. Concept art services can offer fresh perspectives and specialized skills that enhance the quality and creativity of gaming weapon ideas. Submit Rating Average rating 4.7 / 5. Vote count: 18 No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post. We are sorry that this post was not useful for you! Let us improve this post! 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