CASE STORY
KAIDAN
BRANDING, IDENTITY
CREATIVE DIRECTION
ART DIRECTION
DESIGN
WEB, INTERACTIVE
BLOCKCHAIN
“A fantasy world where Cosmic Horror
meets sengoku period Japan…”
Kaidan Universe (also known as Rengoku Legends before) is an ambitious project that brings together a rich narrative and interactive digital experiences. I had the privilege of designing the branding, website, and other interactive products for this groundbreaking venture with the roles of art and creative direction.
Created by Connor Sheehan and Drasko V. and started as “Rengoku Legeds”, Kaidan Universe became one of the biggest NFT collections in the market and a fresh new fantasy setting; where Feudal Japanese warriors fight eldritch horrors in an eternal battle for dominance.
“Tell me Samurai, what’s your purpose?”
First; I designed the “Rengoku Legends” genesis website, took on art direction and the site awarded by the FWA – marked my entry into the Kaidan Universe. Remembering some history; when the internet was something new, watching a video called “I will be Japanese”, the argument of a young man with his father, who wants to be a Samurai. Childhood, old good days…
Kaidan Symbol – Flag Reveal
The branding design for Kaidan Universe was pivotal in setting the tone for the entire project. At the heart of this design is the Kaidan wordmark. The wordmark is crafted to embody the essence of the project’s horror theme and samurai influence. The jagged, distressed typography conveys a sense of mystery and danger, drawing the viewer into the haunting world of Kaidan Universe.
Initial Reveal Test Video
The Kaidan Symbol
Inspired from Japanese calligraphy, flame marks and the “spirit” symbol; the Kaidan symbol is formed. The symbol will be used as a part of the design system, both as a secondary or main element itself – creating a contrast from the mark’s concrete structure.
Kaidan Symbol and the marks of the clans of the Island of Ikaiguchi.
Full logo display
Kaidan Playing Cards
Visual treatments – artwork by Connor Sheehan
Kaidan Sub-Brands
Visual treatments – artwork by Connor Sheehan
Cosmic horrors feeding at the edge of reality, twisting the world to their will.
Shadows clouding the minds of men.
Truth is long forgotten, buried in unmarked crypts.
This is Kaidan…
The website for Kaidan Universe was designed to serve as both an introduction and a comprehensive wiki for the entire project.
It showcased the project’s visual identity with high-resolution artwork and animations, effectively bringing the world of Kaidan to life. The site provided detailed information on character profiles, storylines, and the NFT collection, creating a rich, informative resource for users. Additionally, the website featured an explorable map and other interactive elements that enhanced the depth and immersion of the Kaidan Universe.
As a part of the main website, I’ve also designed the “Kaidan Home” – a central hub that connects user with the Kaidan World; allows users to explore various products, services and community interactions; an infrastructure for blockchain based assets, services and trade.
Kaidan Universe wasn’t just a project; it was a long dive into a world of horror and heroes. I shaped the brand from the ground up, designed the websites that won awards, and stayed close through every step; from weekly calls to late-night tweaks. It’s a project I lived and breathed, and it shows.
The success of Kaidan Universe stands as a testament to the power of immersive storytelling and design in the digital age.