Hello everyone!
In our last Dev Sketch, we introduced you to Nia.
Today, we’re sharing something a little different: the story of an NPC who was created in an unusual way.
From the very start, he looks like shouting, “I’ve been through a lot!”
So how exactly was this NPC created, and what sets him apart? Let’s dive in.
🎨 Sketches of the Day
The world of Fatal Claw is full of NPCs, each carrying their own unique backstory.
Even though we can’t showcase every detail inside the game, our team carefully builds each one so that you can grow attached to them. 🙂
And among them is one NPC who radiates mystery at first glance—Ainjaff.
💬 Dev’s Comment
Unlike many characters, Ainjaff's backstory came before his appearance. His concept was then shaped to reflect that story:
Once a renowned warrior, now retired and running a small shop.
Wears a blindfold and seems to carry trauma from his warrior days, though the details are left unknown.
Shows little enthusiasm even for his own business.
Ainjaff's journey began with the word “warrior.”
Because Fatal Claw is a story-driven game, we believed his design needed to embody narrative, not just aesthetics.
He’s not just any mercenary—he was once a celebrated fighter. His face and body bear the marks of countless battles.
At first, we considered portraying him as an old, weathered veteran.
But as the story developed, a middle-aged warrior felt far more fitting. To deepen his mystery, we added the idea of blindness, along with the notion that his true circumstances are never revealed. 🤫
As for his indifference toward business, we let that shine through in his dialogue:
“If you’re done with your business here, leave. Your pawsteps are annoying.”
“Browse if you’re interested.”
Through this process, Ainjaff took shape with the following concepts: cool-headed, muscular, mysterious, and lazybones. 🙌
[Ainjaff's in-game appearance]
Ainjaff is one of the first NPCs you’ll encounter in the early game.
At first, he may look like nothing more than a shopkeeper with a dark past.
But as the story unfolds, you’ll discover layers of hidden charm behind his stoic exterior.
Why does he cover his eyes? What path did he walk during his warrior days?
The answers are left for you to uncover within the game. And unraveling those mysteries is one of the unique joys of Fatal Claw. 😉
That’s it for today’s Dev Sketch! What do you think of Ainjaff?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or in the community. Your feedback and support mean the world to us.
We’ll continue sharing the journeys of Fatal Claw’s NPCs, including how they came to life and the stories they hold. So keep watching this space!
Fatal Claw isn’t just our project; it’s a story we want to create together with you.
With our upcoming Kickstarter campaign, we hope to expand this adventure even further. Your support will make this journey truly special.
And don’t forget, you can always connect with us directly and get the latest news first on our official Discord.
Thank you again for all your encouragement and love! 🙏