REFERENCE PIC:
https://i.imgur.com/mFpNAQO.jpeg

Below refers only to the reference part (red numbers in the pic)

DM MESSAGE FROM ME TO ARTIST:

Okay, I have tried to compile a bunch of references, although it's really hard to pick something specific rather than just "this is what i like. I categorized it and i'll try to explain why i picked them.

1. That character is actually my ffxiv character. While i adore the main character stand-in that's used in promotional materials, i think he takes himself a bit more seriously. Showing you a catboy as reference felt weird, but i like the general feel of steadfast hero, but not afraid to smile every once in a while.

2. this is the square enix pile where main characters with a troubled past gather. i love some of the newer designs, but i don't want the "default" look of the character to be that intense and serious. he should seem approachable (like 1. sort of)

3. This is the happy / quirky pile. A big part of why i love ryu is because he looks so harmless, despite the fact story-wise hes a dragon and the strongest one in existence. a genuine smile goes a long way and i feel like thats missing from SE's usual design choices. Justin from Grandia (right side) is another great example, i actually love the energy the portraits give in-game (and i'm actually planning to do something similar with this character in an actual game), the overall design is just a little to young. justin is 14 in the story, but his character has this adventurer energy that i love.

4. i have nothing for 4, just some designs where you'd find the confident smile.

I think what i might end up asking for is multiple face portraits if we find a good base structure (i'll pay extra of course and only if you find the time), as i can use them in an RPG Maker style game, and because i think they will be useful assets in the stream. (cut-ins and stuff)

As for the hair, i think it looks good, the bigger spikes kinda make it easier to recognize and translate into 3D anime style, i think something like 1. would be cool but that is probably too detailed. Also i don't think i want to cover the eyes, we don't wanna get too edgy.

I feel like i might have created more confusion than i tried to get rid of, but uhh good luck? :)