KontrolFreek - Collector’s Edition Packaging

Diablo IV® Collectors Edition

Client: KontrolFreek and Activision Blizzard

Date: 2023

Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, Fusion 360

Objective

The primary goal of this project was to create high-value packaging that would appeal to collectors and drive sales for KontrolFreek's Diablo 4 licensed product. The packaging needed to be thematic to the game, effectively house the KontrolFreek product, and stand out as a premium item. Additionally, the licensing aspect required strict adherence to Diablo 4's visual and thematic guidelines, ensuring alignment with the game's dark, gothic aesthetic. Midway through production, changes on the studio side for Diablo 4 necessitated swapping out certain artwork, which added complexity to the design process and required flexibility to maintain the integrity of the final product.

Process

The project began by reviewing Blizzard's assets to find elements suitable for packaging design. The initial concept was inspired by the Horadric Cubes from Diablo 4, which were adapted to store the KontrolFreek product, with the brand's logo integrated into the design. After multiple iterations and feedback from the studio, the design shifted away from directly replicating the cubes. Instead, we incorporated more general gothic imagery, redesigning the sides to feature the Diablo 4 logo and class icons, ensuring the packaging was both on-brand and visually compelling.

To bring the design to life, the packaging needed to be 3D modeled. I created the initial designs in Adobe Illustrator and then translated them into 3D models using Fusion 360. These models were essential for generating factory-ready files, ensuring that the final product met both aesthetic and practical requirements.

Solution

The final packaging design was a first for KontrolFreek, featuring a stamped metal case that added a premium, collectible quality to the product. The box was designed to resemble an artifact straight out of the Diablo 4 universe, seamlessly blending the game's aesthetic with the practical need to securely store the product. The case included functional hinges and a textured metal finish, enhancing its tactile and visual appeal. This attention to detail ensured that the packaging not only protected the product but also provided an immersive experience for the consumer. The final design was a huge success, with the product selling out almost instantly upon release.

Call of of Duty® Deadshot Edition

Client: KontrolFreek and Activision Blizzard

Date: 2024

Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, Fusion 360

Summary

For this project with KontrolFreek, I designed themed packaging for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III Zombies, drawing inspiration from the iconic Perk-a-Colas, specifically Deadshot Daiquiri. The packaging resembled a soda can, complete with a custom topper that I designed and 3D modeled in Fusion 360. The final product successfully captured the essence of the Zombies game mode and sold out upon release.

Destiny 2 The Final Shape Collector's Edition

Client: KontrolFreek and Bungie

Date: 2023

Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, Fusion 360

Summary

For this project with KontrolFreek, I designed a 5-stage lenticular sticker for Destiny 2: The Final Shape, bringing the Traveler to life with a pulsing, energetic effect. The sticker was then placed in a custom lid that I 3D modeled in Fusion 360, mimicking the appearance of the Traveler from the game. This combination created a dynamic, animated look that perfectly captured the essence of Destiny 2.

KontrolFreek - Packaging

Generation 1

Generation 2

Client: KontrolFreek

Date: 2018

Tools: Photoshop, InDesign, Rapid Prototyping

Objective

The primary goal of this project was to revamp the packaging of KontrolFreek's flagship product, Performance Thumbsticks. The generation 1 packaging had several drawbacks: it was prone to theft and tampering, lacked adequate space to showcase product features, and was ineffective in cross-selling other products. The refresh aimed to address these issues, focusing primarily on each product's individual branding while relegating KontrolFreek branding to a secondary position.

Process

The process began with the development of several rapid prototypes, experimenting with various shapes and configurations to establish a base design. The creation of die lines and graphic designs then progressed in parallel, allowing both elements to mutually influence each other. This approach resulted in a cohesive and well-integrated packaging design.

Solution

The redesigned packaging introduced a two-part thermoformed structure that securely housed the product, featuring a "try me" hole to engage potential buyers. This redesign provided ample space on the front for individual product branding, while the back section was transformed into an informative hub. Here, detailed product information was displayed, along with suggestions for other KontrolFreek products that might interest the customer.