Creative choices with designs and the bigger picture in the Blood Oak Universe
over 3 years ago – Fri, Aug 12, 2022 at 04:53:51 AM

The world of Astur

Thank you all for the love and support you have given us throughout this journey into Blood Oak and now with Nkosi! 

Thanks to it, we have built and expanded this amazing world we call Astur. And that would never be possible without your interest in the characters/design from this mysterious, dark and philosophical universe.

Our team worked day and night to get it to the level you see presented here. But some things have remained secret.... until now. I mean, we can't just spill all the beans, but we can open the doors into our creative process, and offer you a further look at the designs thus far of the Asturians.

Here is a sneak peek at some of the concept art from the development of Astur, we will keep the explanations as short as possible, but feel free to ask us questions so we can answer in the comments.

Since you have seen all of our renders and pictures so far, here is something new: some concept arts in their first stages!

 For the beards and hairstyles of Asturians we wanted to keep them as close to tribal as possible. With the peace within Tollan, Asturians started to have more time on their hands, and with that, an extra bit of care went into their appearance.

 
We have explored a lot of different outfits using material that the Asturians had access to, either by hunting or weaving. We sought inspiration from different native tribes from around the world, including from Luiz's own home country, Brazil. 

We have also explored different anatomies, faces, horns and other traits that could make each of them unique, the same way we are.

There was also the never-ending question of "how can the future players personalize further their Asturians?". So we explored engravings which would go from expressing one's beliefs, to telling a tribe story, a myth from a village, or their own history in Astur.

We have also explored different tribes' tattoos which represent the factions within Tollan. Now, those are important because, after the fall of Tollan, those Tribes become major players in the politics and wars within the continent and in the expedition into the Old World, the home of the Blood Oak.

Asturians are amongst the strongest beings in our Blood Oak Universe. Therefore it shouldn't come as surprise when you see them wearing sand stone-like armours into battles. They might be slow, but one blow from their weapons can be catastrophic to any other living being.

The bigger picture for Blood Oak

By supporting this campaign, you are not only supporting a 3D Printable character, or just Astur and the tribes within. You also support the creation of the other 11 worlds within Blood Oak. You are telling our team and all the other creative minds working with us, "YES, this is worth it. Show us more".

The ultimate goal is for you and your friends to be able to explore this universe, enjoy its game, find which races, goals and tribes you identify with, and inspire you all to create your own journey/campaigns/expansions.

Our part in it ends in the 3rd Chapter. The rest of the story will be in your hands.

With love,

Black Forge Games Team