Here is a link to my original blog post: https://gamecorner.gg/blog/f/the-named---dev-blog-1
What is The Named?
The Named is a globally-inspired 5v5 Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) where real historical figures are reimagined as mythic champions. From warriors to inventors, rebels to philosophers, each hero draws power from legacy and legend. This isn’t just about fantasy, it’s about how history can be stylized into dynamic, strategic gameplay.
We’re building The Named to stand apart with bold visual identity, cultural diversity, and gameplay systems that evolve in every match.
To be remembered is to be named. To be named is to win.
Core Vision
- Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
- Platform: PC (console possible post-launch)
- Concept: Fight as stylized, mythologized historical figures in a dynamic 3-lane map with evolving environments
- Art Style: Stylized representation of the real figure.
- Core Pillars:
- Globally diverse champion roster
- Fast-paced but strategic combat
- Tactical terrain changes mid-match
- Designed for expressive play & clarity
Let's Meet a few of Our Champions
We’re designing each champion around their real-world legacy, turning iconic moments or symbols into unique gameplay mechanics. Here are just a few:
First up we have an electrifying figure....
Nikola Tesla
Tesla brings his mastery over electricity to the battlefield as a Marksman with shocking power.
Country/Region of Origin: Serbia / USA
Historical Background: Nikola Tesla was a Serbian-American inventor and futurist best known for his work with electricity, including AC power systems, wireless energy, and Tesla coils.
Next up is a courageous and faithful figure....
Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc is a radiant knight ready to Tank damage for her allies and inspire them to victory.
Country/Region of Origin: France
Historical Background: Joan of Arc was a 15th-century French heroine who led French forces during the Hundred Years' War. She claimed divine guidance and was martyred for her beliefs.
And last but not least for today we have a a truly Unshakeable foe...
Nzinga Mbande
Nzinga Mbande was a powerful queen who proved time and time again that she was more than a match against anyone in her path.
Country/Region of Origin: Angola
Historical Background: Nzinga Mbande was a 17th-century queen of the Ndongo and Matamba Kingdoms in Angola, remembered for her resistance against Portuguese colonization, and her diplomatic and military acumen.
In all we plan to have a total of 15 champions to do battle on the World Stage when we eventually reach a beta stage.
Design Process
We keep our champion creation process structured using the following tools:
- Champion Design Guide – Ensures consistency across history, gameplay, and tone
- Champion Design Worksheet – Fills out theme, abilities, and counterplay
- Visual Style Guide – Defines UI color palette and brand motifs
If you’re an artist, designer, writer, or dev interested in joining the project — reach out here!
What’s Next?
Here’s what’s on deck for the next few weeks:
- Finish the initial design for the first 15 champions
- Begin testing ability clarity, counterplay, and role balance
- Share concept art and gameplay mockups
- Start prototyping dynamic map events
Stay tuned for the next, where we’ll deep-dive into how we translate a real person into a champion, and show our full process from legacy to legend.
Thanks for following along!
History is written by the bold — and played by the brave.
~Sheldon