Kena Scars of Kosmora looks amazing, but it's reignited an old character design debate
Creative Bloq
by Joe Foley February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Kena: Scars of Kosmora has sparked a heated debate about female character design in gaming. While fans praise its continuation of the whimsical art style from the first game, others argue that making Kena older and "sexier" could boost popularity. This trailer reignited discussions on whether female characters need to be sexy to sell games, with mixed reactions online.
The sequel retains Ember Lab's signature Pixar-meets-Zelda art, blending charm with a darker tone. Despite its unique aesthetic, some critics suggest that Kena's design might not appeal as broadly if it doesn't conform to certain beauty standards. This debate reflects broader industry conversations about inclusivity and character representation.
Proponents of Kena's current design argue it fits her world and story, emphasizing capability over appearance. Social media reactions highlight both support for diverse designs and frustration with narrow beauty ideals in gaming. Designers face the challenge of balancing artistic vision with market appeal,
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Originally published on Creative Bloq on 2/14/2026