My very first critique! I’m always open to criticism, but have had difficult time finding someone – or ‘sources’ – to critique my works. Fortunately, this blog exists! Give me everything you’ve got, I’m ready!
Character Name: “Astrid” Nova
Creator/Artwork: @astridnova
Species: “Porcupine”
Other Details: Her official character biography can be found here. Bear in mind: I’m not one to shy away from detail (especially when it comes towards my characters).
Critique under the cut!
The first thing I want to mention is that the character design, when viewed independently from the character description, is very good: the outfit has this fun, other-worldly vibe to it and the application of colour scheme is excellent.
However, I find that the character design doesn’t entirely mesh well with the character description, and it’s important for the design of the character to inform you of what that person is like. My first impression of Astrid, before I clicked the link and read her bio, was of a very confident and mature young woman, one who is very sure of herself. However, after reading her bio that’s obviously not the case since you describe her as having self-confidence issues and being an ‘energetic buffoon’. While subverting expectations through your character’s appearance is certainly a good potential design choice (think about how popular the ‘sweet little girl is actually a villain’ and ‘big scary man that likes cute stuff’ tropes are) the implementation of this needs to be very purposeful and thought out, which is not the impression I get from Astrid’s design. If you want the design and personality to have a little more cohesion, I reckon the easiest way to do this would be have Astrid’s default/resting expression be more open and innocent; such as having her eyes be fully open rather than half-lidded.
To talk about her personality, I feel it’s a little odd to describe her as having a ‘darkness in her heart’ when all that seems to amount to is having a conscience; something that is generally considered to be a morally good thing. Perhaps by ‘darkness’ you mean inner emotional turmoil rather than an ethical character flaw? I also feel like it’d be easier to understand that turmoil if we knew what event/choices she’s made that have made her feel this way.
This next note is not so much about Astrid herself but something in her bio: I’m really not sure what direction you’re going with in regards to the Delta Elites Squad. Their name makes them feel like some sort super-exclusive fighting or adventuring team (or a college fraternity/sorority if I’m being brutally honest) while the description of their activities seems more in line with a charity or disaster relief organisation.
The last few things I really want to mention is I think the backstory of the Nebularans is very interesting albeit a touch confusing to understand. I also think your choice of name for Astrid is very fitting.
Overall, your character design is fundamentally very good and at this stage it’s about taking care of the small details: making sure that both your design and who your character is as a person are cohesive and in harmony.
