A Guide to Designing Memorable Creatures

The world of video games has given us a vast array of iconic and memorable creatures, from the majestic Trico in The Last Guardian to the adorable Goombas in the Mario series. In his talk, "Bringing Creatures to Life: How to Make Good, Emotionally Appealing Creature Designs," Sam Santala, a seasoned concept artist, revealed the secrets to crafting creatures that resonate with players. Santala emphasized that creatures should serve a purpose in the game, whether as enemies, allies, or mounts. He stressed that understanding the principles of anatomy, evolution, and aesthetics is crucial for creating believable and appealing creature designs. By studying real-life animal anatomy, designers can create creatures that are both familiar and unique. However, Santala cautioned that anatomy is just one aspect of creature design. He cited the example of the raptors in the Jurassic Park franchise, which, despite being anatomically inaccurate, still managed to evoke a sense of fear and wonder. The key, he said, is to focus on the creature's emotional or functional core and use anatomy as a tool to enhance that core. To create memorable creatures, Santala recommended focusing on key areas such as weak spots, weapons, or markings that convey the creature's personality or purpose. He also emphasized the importance of simplifying designs and using key forms to guide the player's attention. By doing so, designers can create creatures that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Santala also shared tips for adding personality to creatures, such as using scars, ageing, or posture to convey a sense of character. He encouraged designers to think about what the creature is trying to do or express, and to use small changes to create a big impact on the player's emotional connection with the creature. Ultimately, Santala concluded that creature design is about creating emotional resonance, whether it's fear, wonder, or love. By focusing on the creature's core and using anatomy, focal points, and personality to bring it to life, designers can create creatures that leave a lasting impression on players.