How 'The Last of Us' Transformed This 3D Artist's Character Design Process

Italian 3D artist Max Bianchini reveals how studying video game characters like Ellie from The Last of Us has shaped his approach to character design. Working as a Texture & Lookdev Artist at Platige Image, Bianchini dives deep into the storytelling power of small details—scar placement, tired eyes, color choices—that make characters memorable.

Inspiration from Games and Anime

Bianchini's inspiration comes from game and manga/anime characters. He researches their backgrounds, development, and creation curiosities, fascinated by expressive faces and lore. He studies how scars tell stories and color choices reflect personality.

Creative Process

While working, Bianchini listens to 90s cartoons for their nostalgic energy and iconic art style, or video game soundtracks. His recent piece is a 3D portrait of Ellie from The Last of Us, a remake of a 2020 version to test his growth over five years.

The Reality of Being an Artist

Bianchini admits making a living as an artist is harder and more rewarding than imagined. The business side—marketing, deadlines, client communication—is challenging, but seeing his work connect with others makes it worthwhile.

Passion Projects

He's currently working on Berserk fan art, studying Kentaro Miura's incredible character design while adding his personal touch. He loves the depth, brutality, and intense expressions of the characters.

Tools and Techniques

Bianchini primarily works in 3D but sketches anatomy studies to understand structure, proportion, and movement—skills directly applied to sculpting. His passion for drawing started in childhood.

Ellie from The Last of Us: A remake of a previous portrait from 2020.

Princess Mononoke: Fan art of San, completed in 2022.