GOD OF WAR 20TH ANNIVERSARY ARCADE + EXHIBITION / GALLERY NUCLEUS / 2025

PROJECT + Gallery Nucleus and Santa Monica Studio invited artist Jose Mertz, representing Tigers N Torches, to participate in the God of War 20th Anniversary Exhibition, celebrating two decades of the franchise through original artwork, collectibles, concept work, memorabilia, and special releases. For the exhibition, Mertz / TNT developed the visual treatment for a limited-edition God of War (2018) Phantasy Arcadecollectible. The project translated the world of God of War (2018) into a compact arcade format through original illustration, character-driven graphics, and custom cabinet artwork. The physical piece was hand assembled in black acrylic with archival vinyl graphics, internal illumination behind the screen and marquee, and released in an edition of 20. The interactive 3D presentation expands the original concept into a full-size arcade reference while preserving the visual language of the physical piece. The digital version pushes the cabinet further with dimensional controls, illuminated coin slots, screen glass, a backlit marquee, and a more fully realized arcade silhouette. 3D VIEWER: Click or tap the model to activate it. Allow a few seconds for the 3D file to load, then click + drag to rotate and explore the cabinet. An additional original illustration by Jose Mertz / Tigers N Torches was produced as a limited-edition print and exhibited in the main gallery as part of the anniversary presentation. The final media slide features a recap video from the exhibition and opening event. PROJECT DETAILS + Client / Exhibition: God of War 20th Anniversary Exhibition Venue: Gallery Nucleus, Alhambra, California Dates: March 15 to March 23, 2025 Project: God of War (2018) Phantasy Arcade Artist: Jose Mertz Studio: Tigers N Torches Scope: Illustration, visual direction, graphic treatment, cabinet artwork Original Format: Hand-assembled black acrylic collectible Original Edition: 20 Graphics: Archival vinyl adhesive Lighting: Internally illuminated screen + marquee 3D Presentation: Interactive reconstruction, stills + exhibition footage