Indie game Europa inspired by Ghibli’s artistic essence

Europa is an indie game that blends adventure with art styles inspired by Studio Ghibli. The game's director, Helder Pinto, emphasizes that he does not want to simply imitate Ghibli's iconic visuals. Instead, his goal was to understand what makes their films unique and recreate that feel in a video game. Since its announcement, Europa has drawn comparisons to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Players will explore vibrant environments, solve puzzles, and enjoy a sense of freedom similar to Zelda games. Pinto discussed how references from Ghibli films informed the game's art style during a recent panel at GDC. Pinto noted that having a solid foundation of references is crucial. He often turned to Ghibli movies for inspiration when deciding on the style and mood for Europa. He specifically mentioned how Ghibli portrays nighttime scenes and the cold, blue tones associated with dusk. Although Ghibli is a major influence, Europa is not solely inspired by it. Other titles, like Gris, ABZÛ, and Journey, also played a role in shaping the game. The developers hope to deliver a unique experience that captures the charm of Ghibli while telling an emotional story.