Myra:Character Evolution

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(¸.·´ (¸.* Hi Everyone! Have you ever wondered about the concept art of the characters we interact with on a daily basis inside the game? If so, read along further and if not, keep scrolling for some great eye candy.

Love or hate her; Myra is important to our coffers.

Either way, I thought it would be a good idea to show the various stages of Myra's concept sketches before arriving at the final form of the gypsy merchant we know and love(hate?).

Concept Art: Stage 1

Myra: Stage 1

This is Myra at her first stage of concept art. Prim and proper. This first sketch of Myra depicts a kind, elderly woman.

Concept Art: Stage 2

Myra: Stage 2

This is Myra at her second stage. Notice the removal of the apron. This sketch of Myra is leaning toward a very aged female. Although she retains her kind disposition there is a very noticeable face stretch to her eyes and cheeks. This particular Myra also has a beak-like nose.

Concept Art: Stage 3

Myra: Stage 3

Right off the bat you can note the huge jump from kind old woman to an elderly female with a steely gaze of iron. If looks could kill this particular Myra would have players pinned to the wall. Her clothes have also changed to resemble something alike a school director.

Concept Art: Stage 4

Myra: Stage 4

At this point the artist has a better idea of what he/she wants for Myra the Merchant. A petite stature and round portrait are the key points. The granny hair-bun is ditched for a more relaxed hairstyle complete with headband. Myra also sports earrings and lipstick.

Concept Art: Stage 5

Myra: Stage 5

At this stage we see that the artist is combining elements of Stage 3 and Stage 4 together. Myra is petite, rounder, and keeps a wavy hairstyle. She also loses her trendy elements such as the earrings, lipstick, and headband. Obviously her age as an elderly woman is a must. This is the one element that hasn't changed from the very first stage.

Concept Art: Stage 6 - Final

Myra: Stage 6 - Final

At the end, the artist decided upon keeping Myra as a trendy, gypsy-like woman. She retains her old age but doesn't look like an old hag nor does she have the gaze of a strict school marm. Myra gets to keep her apron in the end as well as her earrings, lipstick, and headband. Overall we are given the impression that although she is kind she is no pushover. The various trinkets and expensive silks that adorn her outfit betray a mad skill for trading. Myra knows her stuff!

What do you think about the various concepts for Myra? Did Zynga hit or miss with her design?

Thanks for stopping by, Happy playing!
- Masaya