Boost Graphics, the international graphics and virtual production subsidiary of EMG/Gravity Media, has significantly enhanced the viewing experience for a major English football league. Their achievement involved creating immersive, real-time visuals using a potent blend of industry-leading software and gaming technology.
The team leveraged Unreal Engine, Cesium, Google Maps, MapBox, Cinema 4D, After Effects, and Premiere to generate dynamic and visually appealing content. This seamless integration of multiple platforms enabled rapid turnaround and high-quality output, setting a new benchmark in sports broadcasting. A key feature was the development of detailed nighttime maps. These maps involved meticulous manual placement of stadium lights, utilizing image references of stadiums and surrounding areas for realistic representation. Advanced MapBox data integration and custom shaders facilitated the inclusion of streetlights, seas, and rivers, creating a truly immersive environment.
This project provides substantial benefits for broadcasters, rights holders, football teams, venues, and viewers, offering a clearer understanding of stadium locations and their relative distances. The enhanced visuals provide a deeper understanding of the game's locations, bringing viewers closer to the action. This is Boost Graphics' second year providing graphics for the top-tier English league, expanding EMG/Gravity Media's reach. In 2023, they produced 12 animations; this year, they created 80 new variations, significantly improving the viewing experience.
While currently exclusive to the Premier League, Boost Graphics plans to expand to other sports leagues and regions, exploring further commercial opportunities such as advertising and brand promotion. Frank Temmerman, Manager at Boost based in Belgium, commented: “Our team had a great time working closely with our client and diving into the world of English football. After this project, we now know our way around the UK better than ever. It’s been an exciting journey to bring these iconic stadiums and cities to life in a way that adds value to both broadcasters and fans.”
This project exemplifies the combined capabilities of EMG and Gravity Media, showcasing the innovative potential of their unified teams.