Ember Lab’s Animation Director Shares Insight into the Growth of Kena: Bridge of Spirits’ Protagonist

On PlayStation Blog, Hunter Schmidt, Animation Director of developer Ember Lab shared the team’s character art direction choices regarding the protagonist Kena in the soon-to-be-released Kena: Bridge of Spirits.

This post was quite intricate as it provides details on how Kena’s design was carefully scrutinized and gradually altered since the game’s inception. Much focus was poured into depicting her personality into her general movement, which couldn’t have been a simple feat to achieve. Additionally, even seemingly minor elements of Kena’s design, such as her clothing and staff, were specifically made to portray the character’s affinity for tradition and experience with adventuring.

I highly recommend giving the full post on PlayStation Blog a read since it has granted me an even deeper appreciation for this title’s gorgeous art direction even before it can be fully experienced firsthand.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits is releasing for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC on September 21, 2021.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits has players assume the role of Kuna, a Spirit Guide who is on a quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding the fall of her village. With her staff and loyal companions, players will set out to unlock new skills, uncover secrets, and restore the land’s beauty.

To enhance the charm of the narrative, Kena: Bridge of Spirits will feature bonds between Kena and her Rot companions. Throughout the adventure, the bonds between them will evolve as Kena’s skills gain power. The creators tried to create a memorable tone and atmosphere to immerse players.