We are currently developing a library where anyone can freely access various resources. In this article, we introduce the first item we’re releasing – for free – background images.
What is a background?
A background is a visual element placed behind the main scene in a game. It sets the mood, atmosphere, and visual style. Backgrounds can be static or feature parallax and animated elements.
Why are game backgrounds important?
Far more than just pretty pictures, backgrounds are vital to game design. They serve multiple key purposes:
- Create atmosphere and immerse the player.
- Indicate the setting (forest, city, dungeon, outer space, etc.).
- Enhance visual appeal.
- Help distinguish foreground (characters, objects, enemies) from background.
- Shift the mood of a scene – day/night, levels, mood changes.
Which types of games use backgrounds?
Backgrounds are used in almost every genre, especially in 2D games. Here are some popular genres and games where backgrounds play a crucial role:
- Platformers: Use parallax backgrounds to create depth and mood.
- Fighting games: Each arena features a unique background reflecting the battle location.
- Puzzle & casual games: Backgrounds provide a pleasant visual context without distracting from gameplay.
- Visual novels & adventure games: Backgrounds are essential for setting scenes and conveying mood.
- Strategy & RPGs: Backgrounds often constitute the map or battlefield.
Types of game backgrounds
Backgrounds come in several key types, each serving different design needs:
- Static background – a non-moving image used as a scenic backdrop, common in early 2D games or simple scenes.
- Dynamic background – animated backgrounds, e.g., drifting clouds, flickering lights, day-to-night transitions; makes the world feel alive.
- Parallax-scrolling background – multiple layers moving at different speeds to create an illusion of depth in 2D scenes.
- Skybox background – used in 3D games to simulate vast surroundings. A cube (or sphere) is textured to give the illusion of distant environments like sky, horizon, and landscapes.
The choice of background depends on game style and required realism.
What’s in our free library
Our free library will include background images on various themes such as adventure, factory, horror, sci-fi, and more. All assets are 2048×2048 pixels and horizontally tileable – meaning the background can repeat infinitely along the horizontal axis.
Below are some usage examples illustrating how these backgrounds can be applied:
Example of using different static backgrounds for a 2D game
Example of using different backgrounds for a Shoot ’em up game
Example of using different backgrounds for a 2.5D game
Example of using different backgrounds for a third-person game
Example of using different backgrounds for a 3rd-person game
