League of Legends’ newest champion Aurora is all set to hit the Summoner’s Rift in late June or early July. In the mystical world of Runeterra, where champions wield incredible powers and epic battles unfold, Aurora’s character genuinely stands out for her unique abilities and most importantly, for her champion development story.
Unlike most Vastaya, Aurora can traverse and interact with the spirit realm, befriending troubled spirits and even managing to win the favor of the reclusive demigod, Ornn.
So how did it all start for the magical Bunny Witch?
League of Legends’ Aurora was initially inspired by Final Fantasy-style summons
Aurora’s story began in 2018, a year of significant changes for League of Legends. The rune system had just been reforged, Zoe was a new menace on the Rift, and the ADC-killing patch 8.11 had yet to wreak havoc on bot lane.
During this transformative time, developer Sunny “Kindlejack” Pandita joined the Champions Team and began collaborating with game designer Blake “Squad5” Smith. The two shared a vision of creating remarkable champions, a journey symbolically sealed with a handshake under a cool autumn tree.
Initially, Aurora’s concept was broad: a dancer who weaves stories from smoke, a mage who combines elements to create diverse magic. Yet, one idea resonated above all—a bunny witch wielding spirit magic.
The team fell in love with this vision, and Squad5 began crafting a kit that fit this unique theme.
The development journey of Aurora gave birth to several new League of Legends champions and concepts
Squad5 initially envisioned Aurora as a summoner-type character, inspired by Final Fantasy-style summons. However, this concept caused confusion and was eventually pivoted.
The team then explored the idea of a genius mage who could steal spells, which led to the creation of Sylas. Although Aurora’s original kit was repurposed, her essence lived on, influencing other champions like Lillia, Yone, and even contributing to Fiddlesticks’ lore.
Aurora’s conceptual journey was so rich and diverse that it splintered into the creation of multiple other champions. The ideas and mechanics that emerged from Aurora’s initial designs influenced the development of several notable characters:
- Sylas, who inherited her spell-stealing kit.
- Yone, whose thematic exploration of the Spirit Blossom event drew from Aurora’s spirit magic concepts.
- Lillia, who borrowed elements of Aurora’s personality.
- The Spirit Blossom event, which was shaped by the team’s research into the Spirit Realm.
- Fiddlesticks’ VGU, which incorporated some of the darker aspects of the spirit magic concept.
The bunny witch’s journey seemed to have ended, destined to remain a concept in a folder. However, when Riot Lexical became the Champions Team lead, she reignited interest in Aurora.
A second chance for the Bunny Witch – Turning into a Vastya
Despite starting from scratch, Riot Lexical and his team couldn’t abandon the strong original character they had developed. They refined her into a unique Vastaya, drawing inspiration from the animalistic traits of rabbits.
Aurora’s design needed to reflect her nature as a rabbit-inspired Vastaya. Kindlejack incorporated scientific patterns like Turing patterns into her freckles, adding a touch of realism to her magical appearance.
Her Freljordian origins were emphasized through her ginger hair and the fur on her feet, a nod to her rabbit-like characteristics.
Aurora stands out as the first prey animal Vastaya in the game. Unlike other champions who overpower their enemies, Aurora relies on agility and trickery.
Her gameplay revolves around outmaneuvering opponents, using her speed and wit to gain the upper hand. This design philosophy makes her a unique addition to the roster of champions.
Aurora’s attire was inspired from Hindu and traditional Middle Eastern designs
Aurora is not from the familiar Vastayan homeland of Ionia but from the harsh, cold region of the Freljord.
The Bryni, her tribe, are farmers who have adapted to the alpine climate. Aurora’s connection to the spirit world sets her apart from her kin. Unlike others who have lost touch with their magical heritage, Aurora has taught herself to harness spirit magic, crafting a spellbook through years of experimentation.
Her self-taught witchcraft is a blend of spirituality and modern aesthetics, combining Freljordian runes with motifs inspired by Hindu and traditional Middle Eastern designs.
This unique blend of influences is reflected in her magical artifacts and abilities, giving her a distinct presence in the game.
Aurora’s uncanny character personality draws inspiration from individuals on the autism spectrum
Aurora’s ability to traverse the spirit realm offers a new perspective on this mysterious part of Runeterra.
Unlike the peaceful spirits of Ionia, the spirits of the Freljord are wild and untamed. Aurora’s interactions with these spirits reveal her compassionate nature; she sees them as friends to be protected rather than feared.
This aspect of her character is deeply personal for many on her development team, who drew from their own experiences as individuals on the autism spectrum. Aurora’s sensitivity to sensory information and her preference for the company of spirits over people resonate with their experiences, adding depth and authenticity to her character.
Aurora, the Bunny Maze, as a unique and lovable champion represents years of efforts from Riot devs
Aurora’s development was a long and winding journey, marked by numerous changes and challenges. Her final design encapsulates the spirit of perseverance and creativity.
As the team looks back on their work, they see Aurora not just as a champion, but as a beacon of new possibilities in the game. She represents the culmination of years of effort and imagination, ready to set new standards and inspire future champions.
As Aurora steps onto the Rift, her journey is far from over. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and the magic of believing in the impossible.
