Based on real-life locations, Lushfoil Photography Sim allows players to explore a series of nature-oriented maps, capturing images on a DSLR camera as they go. Sole developer Matt Newell generated some buzz with previous standalone maps, attracting the attention of Annapurna Interactive, who agreed to publish the game. Since its April 15 release, Lushfoil Photography Sim has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from players and critics alike, garnering particular praise for its photorealistic graphics and relaxing gameplay.
There are plenty of secrets to uncover in each of the diverse worldwide locations, from fun unlockables to different methods of traversing the maps, making Lushfoil Photography Sim more than just a walking simulator with a deluxe photo mode. The Best War Games recently spoke with Lushfoil’s sole developer Matt Newell about exploration, the advantages of working alone, and much more. The following transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity.
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Exploring The World Of Lushfoil
Q. Lushfoil Photography Sim features unique maps, from a rugged trail in Iceland to an abandoned village in China. What was it that drew you to these various locations?
A: I traveled a lot in 2019-2020 and some locations that I visited had a significant impact on me, which eventually led me to recreate them digitally. I would often use my travel photos as references when working in Unreal Engine. I tried to choose photos that would give the game a lot of visual variety, so that no environment would feel the same as another.
Q. How accurate are the depictions of each area? Could players visit these locations to compare the in-game maps to their real-life counterparts?
A: Yes absolutely! I encourage players to go and seek out these locations in real life and get to enjoy the beauty for themselves. I think your experience will be heightened having played the game first. There are obviously some liberties taken with the game version. Some paths have been shortened, for example, but I tried to keep everything else as authentic as possible.
Q. Apart from hiking, players can use boats, bikes and drones to explore these maps. Are there any rewards for using these methods to explore (apart from being fun), and have you considered any other ways to traverse the maps?
A: The primary idea behind this is to offer keen photographers more ways to experiment with their photography and have a fun way to get around while doing it. But there are also game incentives tied to these items, such as using the boat to reach a new shore or using the drone to complete photo objectives that weren't otherwise possible. I wouldn't consider other modes of travel unless they were tied to one of the environments in a specific/satisfying way.
The Positives Of Being A Solo Developer
Q. As a solo developer, there must have been a lot of hard work over the last few years, but do you feel there are also advantages?
A: The main advantage of working alone is that it's easier to keep a consistent vision. Everything in the game can be very intentionally designed, all to suit the same purpose. I hope people can get a sense of that while playing.
Q. Which of the maps is your favorite and why?
A: The last one, Shengshan Island. That map was the last one I created, so I believe my skills as an environment artist were at their peak. Shengshan Island has a very otherworldly feel to it and pairing it with a great level-specific soundtrack really accentuated the whole experience.
Q. The maps are very nature-oriented with some signs of human life. Are there any other locations you would be interested in exploring in the future? Do you have an interest in a more developed area like a city?
A: Nature and densely forested landscapes are definitely my niche. Learning how to do cities would certainly be a challenge and minorly goes against the concept/theme of Lushfoil and the idea of exploring alone. However, I am not ruling anything out for the future.
Using The Cameras
Q. Using a DSLR camera in real life requires a lot of precise button presses. Have you faced any challenges when mapping camera functionality to keyboards and controllers?
A: Not particularly. Someone mentioned the idea of plugging in a camera as a usable game controller, which would be awesome, but it doesn't look like it's currently possible.
Q. Each map contains hidden secrets and unlockables, such as older cameras. What prompted you to include them, and how are they different to the standard camera?
A: Mostly for nostalgia! I really enjoyed buying camera gear for "research" and trying my best to recreate the effects from older cameras. They're just there as an exploration incentive and to hopefully give the player a sense of nostalgia too.
Q. Do you feel that there could be educational or even therapeutic aspects to this game? Could it be used to teach photography, nature appreciation, etc.?
A: Yes to both! I've included an abundance of learning material to help those who aren't familiar with cameras find their footing. The soundtrack is also curated to induce a sense of calm, and I hope players can enjoy the change of pace.
Q. Is there a dedicated place that you would recommend for sharing snaps with other players?
A: Social media would be the place! I'm always browsing Twitter, Bluesky and Instagram. I love looking at photos people have taken. Most of them are honestly better than what I could take.
[END]
Lushfoil Photography Sim
- Released
- April 15, 2025
WHERE TO PLAY
- Developer(s)
- Matt Newell
- Publisher(s)
- Annapurna Interactive
- Genre(s)
- Exploration, Simulation, Virtual Reality
- Platform(s)
- PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
