Behind the Design - Plated Borgalon

Developing the Concept 

The Plated Borgalon is one of the main dominant species on the planet of Malevia, mainly found on the Plains of Ara (savanna-like) and around the Roseglass Ridge (Small Rocky Hills), knowing this, I wanted the Borgalon to be not only be tough but fast and strong. Using references of a Rhino, Triceratops and the Tiger, I developed the idea that too the strengths from each of these.

After collecting all the references I wanted to use. I started to sketch ideas on how it would look. I know i wanted the Rhino horn on the front, but i changed it slightly into a more flatter shape. I added 2 horn-like tusks on the side of the skull to be used as a weapon to gouge prey and attackers. I used a hard plate like skull on the outside of the skin to which arched over the shoulders to protect the main abdomen, this solid piece of bone would have 4 holes, 2 either side, for the eyes and nostrils. The head itself would be a long and slim, almost dog like.

The legs were large and strong, able to run at high speeds while being strong enough to overcome enemies.  I originally designed the feet to be large, flat and heavy, but later i realised that it would impossible for it to move as fast as i wanted to. So I changed them to smaller but stronger legs and the feet were changed into small feet with large claws for traction and grip. I later designed another head, this one was more squared, but it looked less threatening, so i went back to the original design and refined it.

Refining the Design

This was the final design, I changed many things. The horn was changed back into a rhino's horn to give off a more threatening look, the outer skull was simplified and refined in to a 3 piece skull, allowing the lower jaw to unhinge. I added rear plates of bone to protect the rear and tail. I tail was extended to give more balance when running and could be used to knock over aggressors.

The Final Version

Here is the final colored version. However, due to the environment, the colour will be changed at later date. When I next redesign the Borgalon, I think I will add fur behind the front outer skull and along the spine to the end of the tail. Additionally the muscles need to be more prominent on the legs to show their strength and power. Finally, the skin and fur will get a pattern to give the Borgalon a Camouflage to stalk its prey in the tall grass.