The Ten Faces Avatar

Here is a step-by-step process of the recent work I submitted for a contest related to ROV (Arena of Valor).

I began by sketching a concept that closely resembled the original character to ensure compatibility with existing assets and make the work easier for the rigger, animator, and modeler. Since the character would appear in-game, a full 3D model was necessary. Working from a single angle proved limiting, so I refined the design until it looked consistent from every perspective.

Maloch Reimagined in a Tosakan (Ravana) Theme
The inspiration came from Tosakan, the Thai version of Ravana from the Ramayana—an iconic figure shared across Southeast Asian cultures. While interpretations vary, he is consistently depicted as a powerful being with ten heads and twenty arms.

To give the design a distinctly Thai identity, I drew from traditional Thai elements like Khon costumes, temple murals, and giant (Yaksha) statues. A key feature I emphasized was Tosakan’s signature grin—both menacing and amused—which became a central visual motif.

Design Elements
The design incorporated classic Thai costume components, adapted in form and scale:

Headdress

Chest ornaments

Shoulder armor (inspired by traditional shoulder cloths)

Armlets, waistbands, cloth panels, trousers, shin guards, ankle bracelets

Ten giant faces were distributed across the design—on the head, shoulders, back, wings, mace, wrist guards, belt, and chest.

Color & Material
I drew inspiration from Nielloware (Thai silver-inlay craftsmanship). The body features intricate silver patterns, with Tosakan’s traditional green skin reimagined as a glowing teal, resembling a ghostly spirit trapped in ancient silver.

Purple fabrics enhance the green glow, adding a mystical, enchanting aura. Purple also evokes royal power and menace, commonly used for iconic villains.

Wings Design
Tosakan traditionally has no wings, so designing them for Maloch was a creative challenge. I used the flowing, sharp curves from traditional giant masks and sculptures as inspiration, crafting silver wings that matched the aesthetic.

Skill Concepts
Plunder – Integrates bow motifs seen in Khon performances, often held by heroic characters.

Cleave – A sweeping attack featuring Tosakan’s mocking grin to taunt enemies.

Souleater – Reveals Tosakan’s hidden heart to absorb enemy souls and strengthen Maloch’s defense.

Shock – As Maloch crashes down, a massive grin is imprinted on the ground; Tosakan’s twenty arms burst from the cracks, spinning outward to attack.