RIP Viktor Antonov, Art Director for "Half-Life 2" and "Dishonored", dies at 52
Viktor Antonov, the visionary artist and designer whose work shaped the worlds of Half-Life 2 and Dishonored has sadly passed away.
He inspired generations of creators, as the lead writer for Valve and the mastermind behind the hauntingly beautiful dystopia of City 17, Antonov’s influence on gaming, art, and culture is immeasurable.
His genius brought to life the Combine’s oppressive architecture, the brutalist landscapes, and the striking contrast of resistance and decay that made Half-Life 2’s world feel both surreal and eerily real. His work didn’t just define a game—it defined an era of storytelling, one that continues to inspire artists, architects, and dreamers alike.
Antonov’s ability to merge history, technology, and imagination into something wholly original set him apart. His vision will forever echo in the steel corridors of City 17, in the towering Citadel, and in the countless worlds built by those he inspired.
He leaves behind a legacy not just of art, but of possibility—the idea that worlds, no matter how bleak, can be crafted with care, depth, and vision. He will be deeply missed, but his work will continue to shape the landscapes of our imaginations for generations to come.
When I worked in the games industry I used to bite the back of my knuckles when I saw his amazing work, I was just so engrossed in his creations. And as a lecturer I see his work still inspiring so many of my students and graduates today, here is an example - Below The Salt
RIP Viktor Antonov.
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