>>38671946>what elements would you say are fundamental to make a world feel lively? The opposite of (sorry) soulless?Firstly, make sure it's not a grid. Offset houses and landmarks, and use some verticality. Add decorations without making it seem cluttered, benches, flowers, lampposts, fountains etc. Also add secret paths and hidden items for extra soul. High quality custom sprites also add extra soul points.
Give the NPC's interesting dialogue that relates to the situation. Set up little scenarios where each piece of dialogues sheds more light on it.
And ask for feedback, either here or elsewhere, to improve your work. Others will see things you miss.
