Why does Illidan have pandas on his glaives?

Why Does Illidan Have Pandas on His Glaives?

Illidan Stormrage, one of the most iconic characters in World of Warcraft, is known for his formidable abilities and his affinity for the demonic forces of the Twisting Nether. Among his many notable features is the pair of Warglaives, adorned with what appears to be pandas. In this article, we’ll delve into the reason behind this peculiar choice of design and explore the lore surrounding Illidan’s decision to incorporate pandas onto his deadly glaives.

Origins of the Design

According to Samwise Didier, the original designer of Pandaren and many other visual elements in World of Warcraft, the pandas on Illidan’s Warglaives were a last-minute addition to the design process. The initial design featured a 3-pronged Sanskrit symbol that resembled a swastika, which was ultimately changed to the panda faces. This modification was made to avoid any potential controversy and to better align with the game’s art style.

The Lore Behind the Pandas

The pandas on Illidan’s Warglaives hold a significant place in the Warcraft lore. The creatures were chosen due to their connection to the Pandaren and the Nightmare of Sargeras, a key event in the game’s story. The pandas serve as a visual representation of Illidan’s connection to the demonic forces and his role in the battle against the Burning Legion.

Why Pandas?

So, why pandas specifically? According to Samwise Didier, the choice of pandas was influenced by their neutrality and uniqueness. Pandas, as a species, are often seen as non-threatening and neutral, which fits well with the Warcraft universe’s exploration of moral ambiguity. Additionally, the pandas’ distinct appearance sets them apart from other creatures in the game, making them a memorable and iconic part of Illidan’s design.

In-Game Representation

The pandas on Illidan’s Warglaives have been consistently featured in World of Warcraft’s game content, including cinematics, raid encounters, and item models. In the game’s story, the pandas are often depicted as symbols of Illidan’s power and connection to the demonic forces.

Impact on Gameplay

The pandas on Illidan’s Warglaives have had a significant impact on gameplay, particularly in raid encounters. The glaives are considered one of the most iconic and sought-after items in the game, and the pandas have become an integral part of the overall design.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• The pandas were originally intended to be a nod to the game’s designers, as a way to express their appreciation for the fans.
• The pandas’ faces are designed to resemble Samwise Didier’s own facial features, adding a personal touch to the design.
• The Warglaives are the only item in the game with a built-in "takedown request" mechanism, allowing players to report any instances of copyright infringement or other issues related to the design.

In conclusion, the pandas on Illidan’s Warglaives are a unique and intriguing aspect of the Warcraft universe, rooted in both design and lore. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the world of Azeroth, the pandas are an instantly recognizable and iconic part of the game’s identity.