The most recent addition to the League of Legends champion roster, Smolder, underwent rapid design modifications in response to player criticism following his initial reveal.
Riot Games, demonstrating their commitment to player feedback, swiftly addressed concerns about Smolder’s appearance, with the Fiery Fledgling set to receive a makeover before making his debut on the Rift later this month.
On January 5, Riot’s lead champion producer, Alexia “Lexical” Gao, revealed the visual changes that Smolder would undergo. The alterations, showcased through a before-and-after comparison, focused on enhancing notable features on the baby dragon’s face. These adjustments included a sharper set of eyes, a more vibrant color palette, and numerous additions to create a more aesthetically pleasing and less contentious design.
The decision to modify Smolder’s appearance came within a day of the champion’s initial reveal, with players expressing concerns that his facial features ventured too far into the uncanny valley.
Given Smolder’s status as a baby dragon, players had anticipated a cuter design, akin to the success of champions like Yuumi with a similar aesthetic.
The revised design showcased a more detailed skin and bone structure, along with tougher-looking scales, presenting Smolder as a formidable contender prepared to face off against League’s mightiest champions.
The adjustments also extended to his in-game splash art, ensuring a consistent and improved visual experience for players.
The swift response from Riot Games garnered positive reactions from the community, players, and content creators alike. Many praised the developers for their responsiveness to player feedback and applauded the company’s dedication to refining champion designs based on the community’s input.
Smolder, now with his updated look, stands ready to prove his mettle on the Rift, earning approval from the gaming community.