Plans for the batik system

We are trying to rethink what an RPG would look like for us, and we are doing our best to infuse features and stories that are unique and strong and we are proud to feature a Batik System that would be the main Skill and Level Progression of the characters. The levelling up process will include gaining Batik points to distribute to the skill of your choosing, whether active or passive. Helping certain characters and doing special quests will also gain you Batik points. https://youtu.be/tKPTWwh9WK0

The Batik System is something that early Filipinos have lived where body painting or tattoos is a societal norm that dictates your achievements, class and reputation-- and in this game will also affect your dialogue options and merchant trade prices.

Early tests on what the Batikan System for Lam-ang looks like.

Early tests on how the UI for the Batikan System for Bulan looks like.

The Batik—functioning as modular tattoo layers—will originate from the ankles and progress upward to the face. Each tattoo set will be implemented using texture mask–based material setups within Unreal Engine, allowing dynamic swapping and scalable expansion. After performance testing, texture masks proved significantly more efficient than multiple skin variants, which quickly increase memory usage, and decals, which introduce additional rendering overhead. The layered material approach provides the optimal balance between performance, flexibility, and visual fidelity.

In addition to the tattoo system, we plan to support three body archetypes:

• Petite — representing the OG ancestors, Negrito/Aeta/Ati heritage

• Large — for broader physiques

• Standard — for general use

Even with these variations, texture masks remain the preferred solution. Each body type will utilize unique UV layouts and material instances while sharing the same mask logic, ensuring consistent modularity and efficient texture management across all models.

-Jamil