EDITORIAL

In the massively popular online game Granblue Fantasy by Cygames, holidays and events that take place throughout the year are featured in a multitude of different ways such as special events and stories, and the highly coveted, rare skins for your favorite characters.

Just today, the official Cygames PR account on Twitter posted about an older article that was written in 2021 about enjoying the four seasons within their many video game titles, one of course being Granblue Fantasy. The page was setup with the intention to help those stuck at home due to the pandemic to get a small taste of the changing seasons while staying snug and safe at home.

Although this is an older post (I honestly don’t remember seeing some of these illustrations!), it’s slightly curious that Cygames would write about it now all of a sudden, but it seems to be related to their online magazine “CyMaga” (サイマガ, short for Cygames Magazine) which archives articles such as this. The tweet merely introduces the various seasonal events and illustrations from each title and various articles that were published in 2021.

This also includes comments by the artist, so as a devoted Sandalphon fan, I felt I needed to discuss this a little bit here.

Illustrator’s Comment:
I made this illustration because I thought Sandalphon at twilight would make a great picture. I hope everyone can freely imagine what he’s thinking and what/who he’s looking at.

When coming up with seasonal designs for characters, my approach began by prioritizing the character’s core traits and interests. This ensures that the character’s fundamental essence and hobbies remain intact while also unveiling a fresh perspective. I came up with many ideas during this initial design phase. I also received helpful feedback from other team members who are avid Sandalphon fans, which helped to reduce these ideas down to three possible options. Lastly, I chose the most harmonious illustration, characterized by a sailor-like outfit and a solemn atmosphere.

Yes, I absolutely can imagine what he’s thinking and who he’s looking at… and I think most Sandalphon fans share the same sentiment.

◀︎ This is the main Sandalphon (Summer) design prior to the final uncap illustration. It was drawn with the intention of expressing the freshness of the sea breeze with the billowing of his clothes. Additionally, his bag is said to contain a simple first aid kit and motion sickness pills (since he got seasick on the Grandcipher).

▲ Here are a few design sketches before the final one was decided. I’m really glad that they went with the red hood because I think it accentuates his red eyes really well.

▲ These are some rough designs for the uncap illustration. Although the one on the bottom left was ultimately decided upon, the other designs are also really good. Especially, this one:

▲ Once again, yes. I can imagine who’s hand that could be… I really hope we get to see something similar to this in the future.

▲ What’s also fun to note here is that we finally got a Bonus Pose aka the “EX Pose” for Sandalphon (Summer), which was released earlier this past July. We can definitely imagine what’s happening here on our own, not to mention arguing whether that’s just water on his face or actually tears, but once again, I’d have to argue that the majority of Sandalphon fans probably already have a good idea of what’s going through his mind here…

Please stop by again for more Sandalphon fangirling. ❤️

▶︎ Related Links

• Cygames Magazine – Archives 15275 – April 2, 2021
• Cygames Official Site (English)
• Granblue Fantasy Official Site (English)
• Wiki: Sandalphon (Top)
• Wiki: Sandalphon (Summer)