Different ideas for the katana guards.
A couple of early iterations of the helmet. I knew I wanted heavily Yokai (Japanese mythological beasts) influenced helmets and in the end I went for the Shachihoko. The final design is a bit sharper with two large fin-shaped bows added to the forehead.
Back and front view of the initial full body design.
An original character design based on traditional samurai armors of feudal Japan.
This warrior is from the the snowy regions along the mountain spine of Japan. His armor is themed around the mythological Shachihoko, an animal that's half tiger and half carp which is said to be able to control the rain, thus the scales, fin-like ornaments and the not-so-subtle Shachihoko decor on his forehead.
Special thanks to Thomas Wievegg and Johanna Pettersson for their input on the design!
