I've been working on a project for about a month now and I'm having trouble with making the level feel "lived in" and I'm worried that I'm designing an awful level for a top down game.
I would love any advice/critique
Here are some early WIP images of a test level I'm using as a reference point
Replies
Right now, it feels pretty empty. For a classroom, I'd expect more furniture (where's the teacher's desk?). As well as classroom posters, books, clocks, closet and paper.
For the washroom, that should be easy. It should be way dirtier. Add washroom mirrors and sinks that are very grungy.
Since you said you don't want it to be top down, where's the ceilings/roofs? Showcase any lights, fans, vents that are up there.
Lastly, are you following any layouts? I would look up blueprints or maps of schools. You have three classrooms that are the exact same. Why not make one a library or a computer lab?