Artist's commentary
Knight!Sayaka concept art and style tests
I decided to go full “j-RPG mode” for the character designs since that seems to suit the fantasy world I have planned the best at the moment. To make her look cuter and retain her femininity, I also decided to give Sayaka a skirt (even though that might be a bit impractical in a fight). I also tried to keep the major elements from her canon magical girl garb intact while planning her design. The emblem on her chest and shield (derived from the design of her soul gem) belongs to her knightly order.
Sayaka’s innate magical potential isn’t very high, but having studied some magic she is able to preform minor healing spells and sometimes give her attacks a small magical boost. Her true power lies in her high endurance, physical strength and heroic personality, as befits a true ally of justice!