Intention

In 2024, I saw many protests, and one thing that stood out to me was the resilience and determination the participants had for their cause.

Inspired by that spirit, I created Tera, an environmental activist who fights without inflicting harm. Despite being in a combat-driven game, I wanted her playstyle to reflect the core elements of a peaceful protest.

Process

For her design, I took inspiration from what participants brought at a protest, and from what I saw back when I attended Greta Thunberg’s climate march in 2019. I gave Tera accessories to cover her face, a sign, and a megaphone. Aseprite was used for the sprite animations.

To maintain a pacifist playstyle, I designed her attacks to deal 0 damage. Instead, they can only push opponents back using Smack Studio’s knockback mechanic. In order for her to win, she must rely on carefully executed combos for stage control instead of brute-forcing her way.

I ensured her “attack” animations reflect a non-violent protest. She doesn’t overpower opponents but gradually takes the field with her voice, protest sign and willpower.

Result

Playing as Tera feels like joining a rally, where small actions create change. Unable to harm opponents, players must rely on strategy and resilience to make her voice heard. I’m proud of how this project translates activism into gameplay, and captures the energy of my first rally.