How Naraka: Bladepoint Built a Beloved Face‑Customization System

Introduction

During GDC 2022 in San Francisco, the Naraka: Bladepoint team gave a talk titled “Naraka: Bladepoint – Building a Popular Face‑Customization System.” The presentation highlighted the game’s extensive face‑customization features and their development process.

Why a Face‑Customization System?

The battle‑royale genre does not inherently require a face‑customization system, but the team argued that allowing players to express identity through their avatars enhances engagement and community sharing.

User Research and Key Features

Through data collection from other NetEase titles, the team identified the most adjusted facial parts—skin, eyes, and mouth—and focused development effort on these areas. They simplified the system by reducing unnecessary controls while preserving creative freedom.

Design Decisions: Simplification and Expansion

After pruning, the team added features such as a wide HSV color palette for skin tones to support diversity and inclusion. They also introduced a fashion‑matching system that pairs facial designs with appropriate accessories.

AI‑Driven Face Generation

Naraka: Bladepoint was the first MMORPG to implement AI‑based face creation from a single photo, enabling rapid initial face generation that players can further customize.

Standard vs. Personalized Faces

Two approaches were provided: a set of preset faces for quick start and an AI tool for personalized creation. The design emphasized easy acquisition of a starter face and the ability to craft surprising, unique looks.

Cultural Aesthetic Considerations

The team analyzed global player creations, noting differences between Eastern preferences for gentle, harmonious features and Western preferences for bold, independent looks, while also identifying universal trends such as confidence and playfulness.

Sustainability and Community Impact

Continuous player feedback drives updates, and the system has attracted new users, generated massive social media attention, and created a niche industry for professional face designers. The face‑customization system also serves as a social identity marker beyond the game.

Recommendations

Scientifically filter content offered to players.

Understand player preferences to increase artistic acceptance.

Provide standard content with room for surprise.

Leverage cutting‑edge technology to maximize system value.

Conclusion

By aligning the face‑customization system with core gameplay goals, conducting thorough research, and integrating AI and cultural insights, Naraka: Bladepoint created a system that enhances player expression, drives community engagement, and contributes to the broader game development ecosystem.