We've built a WebGL-based texture generator that's become central to how we handle the creation of visuals for R11N. It started as a collaboration with Studio Sascha Bente, who helped us figure out what kind of vibe we were going for.
Inspired by what's possible with generative approaches, we explored a way to generate original graphics quickly. In the end, without even throwing AI into the mix. We started with a chain of many visual effects and generative approaches which we trimmed down to the style that's in line with the creative direction.
It's turned out to be surprisingly useful for all sorts of things: teasers, the cards on our website, social media posts, and even presentation slides.
What's nice about it is that you can either start completely from scratch or feed it existing images and watch it apply its own spin. The effects are pretty unique, and because we built it ourselves, everything has that consistent feel while not repeating itself.
Since it was a playful process of building it we wanted to make using it feel playful too. You'll find yourself clicking around just to see what happens, and often the happy accidents end up being the most interesting results. It's got that kind of experimental feel where you're never quite sure what you'll get, but it's always within our visual language.
A few clicks and you've got something new and original. Including animations.