SMITE 2
Real-time gameplay VFX for the Unreal Engine 5 rebuild of the action MOBA.
- Real-time VFX
- Gameplay
- Environments
- Abilities
- Systems
A reboot you can read in a single frame.
Studios Ground Zero partnered with Hi-Rez Studios to deliver real-time VFX for SMITE 2, the Unreal Engine 5 rebuild of the iconic action MOBA. Our team built gameplay effects, ability systems and environmental interactions, all optimised for clarity, performance, and impact.
SMITE 2's reboot is built on Unreal Engine 5, and the move forced every system to be rebuilt, including the visual language. We worked ability by ability with the gameplay team to make sure each spell could be parsed in motion, at distance, in a 5v5 fight, and on a console.
The work spans gods across the roster: telegraphs, ability hits, ultimates, item procs, environmental interactions and god-on-god feedback. Every spell reads through a strict hierarchy: telegraph first, hit second, persistent state third. Never two at the same time.
Hi-Rez Studios- Client
- Hi-Rez Studios
- Project
- SMITE 2
- SGZ role
- Real-time VFX Production
- Platforms
- PC · PS5 · Xbox Series
- Engine
- Unreal Engine 5
- Duration or phase
- Ongoing production support
- Delivery status
- To be confirmed
The same gameplay language, rebuilt for a new engine.
Drag the seam to compare the original ability with its SMITE 2 rebuild. The goal was not to judge the previous work, but to preserve the gameplay read while rebuilding materials, lighting response and effect systems for Unreal Engine 5.
Original SMITESMITE 2ZeusDrag to compare
Original SMITE
The established ability language and gameplay read that players already recognised.
SMITE 2
Rebuilt for UE5 lighting, materials and performance targets while preserving an immediate read in combat.
The gods we brought to life.
A selection of the gods whose kits we rebuilt for SMITE 2: telegraph, cast, hit and ultimate. Tap a god to watch the abilities in motion.
SGZ Studios consistently delivers standout VFX that not only look incredible but are optimised for the heat of battle. They're a true extension of our team.
Built to be felt, shipped to perform.
Every system is engineered to look right and run right. Four pillars drive every effect we ship into the game.
Built for performance
Every effect is engineered for memory, draw calls and tick cost, never compromising visual quality.
Gameplay first
Designed for readability and clarity, every VFX makes the action easier to read in real-time.
Scalable systems
Modular VFX systems that are easy to instance, reuse, and push across the entire roster.
Shipped at quality
Delivered on time, on scope, and battle-tested across all major gameplay modes.
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Prefer email? Write to impact@studiosgz.com.