Side Post: DFX 452 Moodboards & References 02/05/2024

 Hello, all. This additional blog post will go into detail regarding the moodboards and references images that I have drawn for this project.


As stated in the first blog post, for this project, I will be created three high-quality 3D-models, entirely rendered with custom materials. These models will be fantasy-themed weapons, inspired by the likes of Final Fantasy, Dark Souls, Berserk, and similar media.


The three weapons have moodboards and reference sketches that will be utilized in their creation. Each weapon has a given name to be in-line with the fantasy theme of the project.


Zweihänder Weapon Model Moodboard

Zweihänder - The Executioner's Sword, "Pandæmonium"

 

"Zweihänder" is the german word for "two-hander" which is a large, oversized sword. In reality, this massive piece of steel is lightweight and thin (As seen in the top right photos), however in modern media, especially video games, it is often portrayed as bulky, heavy, and one-handed. The inspiration to create a Zweihänder model came from the Final Fantasy franchise, Berserk, and the Witcher. The sketch reference for this model will give focus to sharp, oppressive edges that appear cut in stone with an otherwordly style of dark magic. 


Ice Rapier - The Scholar's Blade, "Kalte Zauberin"


 Ice Rapier Weapon Model Moodboard


 "Kalte" is German for cold, while "Zauberin" means sorceress. I chose these words as the name of the weapon as through its lightweight and thin nature, I aim for it to appear as a swift magic user's choice of arms. Inspiration came from Dungeons & Dragons, Dark Souls I, and Final Fantasy. The sword itself will have a feeling of the power of raw magic - a weapon of choice for a sorcerer, who channel pure magic in Dungeons & Dragons. This essence of the model will be seen in that it strikes a resemblance to natural ice and crystal formations.  The sketch of this model features thin structures and a hilt of pure ice.


Ice Shield - The Paladin's Shelter, "Kalte Confiteor"


 Ice Shield Weapon Model Moodboard

 

As "kalte" means cold, a "confiteor" is an opening ritual or prayer. I felt the name was fitting as this shield would be a great pick for a paladin in fantasy media - a holy protector. This weapon takes the same design cues from the ice rapier - though they are not to be used as one. A rapier is traditionally employed with a buckler shield - which is small and circular. The ice shield, on the other hand, would be the perfect defense tool for one wielding a versatile blade such as a standard shortsword. Inspiration came from Dark Souls I, Magic: The Gathering, and ice formations found in nature. This shield will give off the effect of being overtaken by nature - magic has began to claim it. On portions of the model, ice crystals grow and crack into the metal, causing a brilliant shimmering. 


Thank you for reading this blog post, and please continue to stay tuned as I will regularly update and maintain the website. I look forward to sharing my progress!


- Stefan


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