And we now have a picture to go with the news. Rocksteady’s character designs have always been nothing short of amazing in reinventing characters that have been portrayed dozens of times and still making them look fresh, but their Penguin looks decidedly more sinister than any previous incarnations we’ve seen.
Even their Joker retained a bit of a cartoon feel to him, but apparently, they wanted to go a completely different way with the Penguin. “The way that Penguin has always been portrayed is as quite an aristocratic, well-spoken gentleman who’s got these twisted delusions of grandeur.” He added, “So we’ve made him a really horrible, nasty piece of work – but still with the delusion of grandeur. He dresses well, but in poor taste, and we’ve made him this brutish, brutal guy but also key into collection fascination that he’s had throughout the years,” according to marketing manager Dax Ginn as interviewed by arkhamcity.co.uk.
The Evolution of the Penguin
The Penguin, also known as Oswald Cobblepot, has been a staple villain in the Batman universe since his debut in 1941. Traditionally, he has been depicted as a short, rotund man with a penchant for high society and an affinity for birds. His aristocratic demeanor and sophisticated speech have always set him apart from other villains in Gotham City. However, Rocksteady’s interpretation takes a darker turn, emphasizing his more sinister attributes.
In previous portrayals, the Penguin has often been depicted with a monocle, top hat, and a tuxedo, embodying the image of a gentleman criminal. However, Rocksteady’s version strips away some of these classic elements to reveal a more brutal and menacing character. This Penguin is not just a criminal mastermind but also a physically imposing figure, adding a new layer of threat to his character.
Rocksteady’s Unique Approach
Rocksteady Studios has a reputation for reimagining iconic characters in ways that feel both fresh and true to their roots. Their take on the Joker, for instance, retained the character’s chaotic and unpredictable nature while giving him a slightly exaggerated, cartoonish appearance. This balance of familiarity and innovation has been a hallmark of their design philosophy.
With the Penguin, Rocksteady has chosen to emphasize his darker, more violent tendencies. This version of the Penguin is described as a “brutish, brutal guy” who still clings to his delusions of grandeur. He may dress well, but his sense of style is in poor taste, reflecting his twisted personality. This approach not only makes the character more intimidating but also adds depth to his backstory and motivations.
The decision to focus on the Penguin’s fascination with collections is another intriguing aspect of Rocksteady’s design. Throughout the years, the Penguin has been known for his love of rare and valuable items, often using his wealth to amass a vast collection of artifacts. By highlighting this trait, Rocksteady adds another layer to his character, making him more complex and multifaceted.
In conclusion, Rocksteady’s reimagining of the Penguin is a bold and innovative take on a classic character. By emphasizing his more sinister attributes and stripping away some of his more gentlemanly traits, they have created a version of the Penguin that is both fresh and true to his roots. This new interpretation not only makes the character more intimidating but also adds depth and complexity to his backstory and motivations. As we look forward to seeing more of Rocksteady’s work, it’s clear that their unique approach to character design will continue to set them apart in the world of gaming.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
