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League of Legends: Jarvan IV Skins’ Review – StrategyZero
Sep 112012
 
Jarvan IV, the Exemplar of Demacia
Jarvan IV, the Exemplar of Demacia

Jarvan IV, the Exemplar of Demacia is a man of full body armour and elaborate lances. Complex designs are to his royal liking yet he can show restraint and elegance when appropriate. Unfortunately, he can also show lavish excess or boring exuberance in other instances. Read his skins’ review and discover which skins make the Prince of Demacia stand up to his regal legacy.

Commando Jarvan IV
Commando Jarvan IV Splash Art Commando Jarvan IV Model
Category: Regular
Price: 520 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV dressed with a modern military theme.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: A diffuse battlefield is the setting with the expected amount of desolation and drama. To an extent it’s all rather empty and mostly serves as a frame for Jarvan. He is shown in a simple but effective portrayal with clear use of colour and defined lines; from the waist up. The legs are a bit diffuse and his trousers give the impression of sagging due to the low decoration. In spite of that, the depiction is reasonably faithful to the in-game aspect. On the whole, it’s a splash art that does its job well and has good quality even if it’s all just functional.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: The problem with Commando Jarvan IV is its whimsical design and how far it goes. At its core the skin is a nice military theme for Jarvan. The multiple green hues prevent the colour theme from tiring and the service uniform has an attractive design; even the knife-styled lance looks good. However, the skin doesn’t stop there and adds an unnecessary knife to Jarvan’s left arm and four preposterously strapped guns to his boots and shoulders. On the one hand, it makes sense for a soldier to be armed to the teeth. On the other hand, the overall style of the skin ends up looking like a mock of an army uniform due to the impractical decoration. Overall, it’s not a bad skin if you can stomach the senseless adornment. Conversely, if you want something that looks a little bit logical then Commando Jarvan IV won’t deliver.

Dragonslayer Jarvan IV
Dragonslayer Jarvan IV Splash Art Dragonslayer Jarvan IV Model
Category: Regular
Price: 750 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV wearing a dragon-themed armour decorated with horns.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: When as little background as possible will suffice there’s nothing like a dragon’s corpse to fill the space. While the dead dragon is quite explicit about Jarvan’s power it also isn’t enough to provide a proper setting. On top of that, except for the head the rest of the dragon is clouded in dust or something else; there’s no clue as to where they stand. Jarvan looks alright in his triumphant pose: the armour is well detailed and nicely reflects the incoming light. Still the pose is a bit unconvincing due to the proportions of Jarvan’s body parts. Besides, the whole portrayal seems to be floating in the emptiness of a vacuum. The absence of an actual setting detracts from the portrayal resulting in a very disappointing splash art.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: The profusion of engravings and embellishments leaves little doubt as to the regal status of the armour’s wearer. For the most part the decoration is reasonable until we come across two huge protruding horns on Jarvan’s back. In spite of the measured composure and elegance displayed on the rest of the armour, those horns are a standing ovation to excess. Thankfully, the lance doesn’t follow suit and displays a moderate but appealing design. Still, it seems strange to find a horn asymmetry on the helmet which seems to be at odds with the otherwise perfect surface of the armour. It may intend to show how the armour has effectively protected Jarvan, yet there are not other signs about it. If it’s to be taken as a characteristic of style, it fails. Regardless of some unexplainable choices, Dragonslayer Jarvan IV is quite a good looking skin. Unless you want a perfectly reasonable skin it will provide an attractive look for the Prince of Demacia.

Darkforge Jarvan IV
Darkforge Jarvan IV Splash Art Darkforge Jarvan IV Model
Category: Regular
Price: 975 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV in red armour decorated with webbed wings and spikes.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: Sometimes a background is too much to ask for, not because it isn’t necessary but because somebody may think so. Therefore, Darkforge Jarvan IV stands in the middle of flying leaves and, dust? The truth is that the absence of a background is the lack of a setting. Sure, a champion can be depicted alone but even if the portrayal is incredible something is missing. On that subject, Jarvan’s depiction is quite good: proportions are adequate, colours are reasonable and the design is well shown. However, the pose is too compressed to show the whole of the armour and the lance seems to have been cut short of the necessary grip. This piece is a complete letdown because it has all the elements to be great but it simply doesn’t do much to be more than merely passable.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: True elegance knows nothing of lavish excesses and this is clearly demonstrated in Darkforge Jarvan IV. The armour is attractive and classy with sensible ornaments and a classic style. First and foremost the armour looks sturdy yet practical and covers most of Jarvan’s body. The design isn’t perfect: the spiked shoulders would be an issue when lifting both arms and the horns on the helmet make for convenient handles. Still, the decorum of the webbed wings and careful organization of the plates can only be compared to the refined look of the lance. Few suits of armour reach a good balance between appealing and practical looks but Darkforge Jarvan IV does. It’s not a skin without faults but it also is a very good looking one.

Victorious Jarvan IV
Victorious Jarvan IV Splash Art Victorious Jarvan IV Model
Category: Promotional (awarded to Gold and Platinum ranked players of Season 1)
Price: Not applicable
Concept: Jarvan dressed with a richly decorated royal armour.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and new textures for his lance.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: Atop a mound Jarvan IV stands victorious surrounded by his troops as a Demacian standard waves in the air. The situation has a lot of potential but not all of it is actually realized. The background shines through its lack of detail: just the bare minimum to show a few soldiers and spears and an inexplicably darkening sky. Jarvan’s armour shows its complexity but while the upper half is well depicted the bottom half is fuzzy and subdued; made more evident by the nice lighting displayed on the upper part of the armour and lance. Victorious Jarvan IV is a piece with radically uneven quality that can inspire and dissatisfy at the same time.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: Let’s go straight to the point: Victorious Jarvan IV is a bad looking skin. The idea on display is that of a majestic monarch attaining victory but one look at the tiara and hairstyle tell the true story: this skin is a mess. The armour is a mix of royal clothing and armour which ends up looking unconvincing as a protective and elegant suit. Furthermore, the elaborate decoration isn’t attractive, it’s just complex and the overall look is quite flat in terms of appeal. Not much can be said about the lance as it mostly looks like his classic one. In conclusion, Victorious Jarvan IV is a skin that is questionable as a present and a far cry from anything desirable.

Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV
Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV Splash Art Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV Model
Category: Regular
Price: 1350 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV in the image of LΓΌ Bu from the Three Kingdoms period.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance.
Particles: New particles for Dragon Strike, Golden Aegis, Demacian Standard and Cataclysm.
Animations: New running animation during Golden Aegis.
Sounds: New quote for Cataclysm and new sounds for Demacian Standard and Cataclysm.
Splash Art: The background shows a volcano and some sky but nothing more. As a setting it feels incomplete and as a background just a simple border. The horse walking on fire is a good way of attracting attention. Besides, its fiery eyes and lustrous fur make an awesome frame for Jarvan IV. The prince wears shining and polished armour with a complex design; though dents are still visible. The expression may be too stern and the imposing portrayal unbefitting of him but they sure convey the theme well. All in all, it’s an impressive portrayal that needs a bit more of a setting to excel.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV is a very interesting skin that supplements the Romance of the Three Kingdoms Theme with volcanic effects. The armour seems a little too flamboyant considering the prince’s usual taste but it surely is eye-catching. The same can be said about the lance yet it remains functional and deadly. Besides, these elements together certainly give an intensity and aggressiveness that isn’t unbefitting of Jarvan. In addition to this, the new particles and sound add more impact to his attacks and so make him look more lethal; especially Cataclysm, which looks exceptional. In the end, it’s a skin that manages to give visual strength to Jarvan’s rather tame nature. While it may be too flashy at times it’s certainly a skin that suits, and even improves aspects, so no Jarvan fan will go wrong with it. It’s a pity then that the price is so high. The skin has an attractive and defined feel but it’s hardly on par with a legendary offering; though the price is. In the end, only dedicated Jarvan IV fans or collectors may find the price acceptable.

Fnatic Jarvan IV
Fnatic Jarvan IV Splash Art Fnatic Jarvan IV Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 750 RP
Concept: Jarvan wearing modernized armour.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: With some effort, the background could represent the illuminated entrance from which the glorious team emerges. Unfortunately, it’s all so blurry and lacking in detail that it’s only a guess. The champions escape from the diffuse surroundings with effort. Their stances make it all feel quite dramatic but also somewhat exaggerated. In fact, it seems to unexpectedly evoke a poster from the eighties with all the nostalgia and excesses that implies. Moving onto the champions themselves, none make a convincing display of their classic personality. There are hints here and there but, for the most part, they seem to be out of character. Ultimately, this splash art accomplishes its basic premise of providing a dazzling display of the champions but in a confusing and chaotic way.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: The new clothes at Jarvan’s disposal not only provide him with a modern look but also with a sporty angle. At a glance, it’s not much of a stretch to confuse him with an American Football player. That’s why it’s a bit surprising to find a fully bladed lance in his hand. It sure seems like a lethal weapon but also a lost opportunity to follow the sporty style. The goatee and ponytail are also something that doesn’t suit him that well. In spite of his elaborate armours he doesn’t strike to be the stylish kind. On the whole, Fnatic Jarvan IV offers a different look that has some good ideas but that weren’t followed through.

Dark Star Jarvan IV
Dark Star Jarvan IV Splash Art Dark Star Jarvan IV Model
Category: Regular
Price: 1350 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV as cosmic warrior.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance plus new glow for his lance and head.
Particles: New particles for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Animations: New recall animation.
Sounds: New sounds for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Splash Art: Deep space, stars and planets float among asteroids but these celestial bodies aren’t alone. They are all at the mercy of a being grander than any life they could ever contain. The basis of the piece isn’t bad but it has to be admitted that it’s a simple context despite how nice space look.
Jarvan IV’s portrayal is straightforward and only visible from the waist up. The colours are dim even if details are visible. The problem is that surfaces are rather homogenous so its not easy to notice decorations. The metal also appears dim and even lacklustre as if an old, forgotten container for the celestial body within. The open chest catches the eye without doubt but seems rather chaotic, which added to the gaseous head, make for a messy centre. The lance is only partially visible though an important part can be appreciated. However, moving towards the left means that colour become even darker.
This result in a splash art that is notoriously homogeneous to the point of being monotonous due to the blue-centred colour palette. Even within that constraint there’s a vivid design which at times ends up chaotic and causing more confusion than excitement. It’s a splash art that attracts attention but doesn’t know how to keep it.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: Perhaps more than Dark Star Jarvan IV the skin should be called Dark Crystal. The model is quite prominent in dark, crystal formations of irregular shape. The lance echoes the effect making for a body that seems compact, sturdy yet light and sharp where edges are seen. That’s the upper body because the lower body disappoint with its muddy, bluish armoured style. Truth be told, it’s such a start contrast that is surprising. Fortunately, the particles that dance around the lance and the flamey glow of the head add some extra visuals to the skin; again, though, in the upper body. The colour palette is clearly restricted to blue with a touch of bronze for the armour which makes for a look that can seem too homogeneous. Even among blues elements appear too similar to each other.
Particles are just as homogeneous but they have some attractive effects that set them apart. Auto-attacks are simple as is Martial Cadence; though the latter has some brief style. Dragon Strike has an appealing cosmic dust around the blade, Golden Aegis translucent geometric shapes on the shield are interesting, Demacian Standard blue flame and dark space at the bottom are nice and the reflections on Cataclysm’s shards of cosmic crystal are very nice; though the stars are static in the shards and the inner swirl is too weak. Admittedly, the cosmic angle is weak and there’s more than a bit of cosmic crystal used.
Sounds seem to reinforce this last observation as abilities employ distorted howls which can pass for breaking shards of crystal; what they actually try to be isn’t obvious, perhaps some cosmic disturbance. This is subtle in many abilities but naturally necessary in Cataclysm. This ambiguity doesn’t help the audio because the cosmic side isn’t clear while the crystal shards end up being more memorable as they are fitting and easy to identify.
The only new animation is the new recall which sees Jarvan IV refusing to be eaten by a hole of dark space and simply teleporting on his own. The rebelliosness is alright but the animation doesn’t really help further develop the skin’s concept. At best, it seems like a little joke.
Overall, this is a skin with a diluted identity. It seems to be all cosmos but ends up being rather reliant on the crystals it shows. The visuals have nice features as the model’s upper body and particles demonstrate. Still, in all areas there’s a perceivable lack of focus that doesn’t convince. In fact, it’s not very clear how this concept fits Jarvan IV better than other champions. Seeing the skin’s result, perhaps this wasn’t the best option.

SSG Jarvan IV
SSG Jarvan IV Splash Art SSG Jarvan IV Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 1350 RP
Concept: Jarvan IV as a magical warrior.
Model: New model for Jarvan IV and his lance plus new glow for his spaulders and lance.
Particles: New particles for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Animations: New recall animation.
Sounds: New sounds for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Splash Art: The setup is pretty simple: a lake surrounded by carved rocks in the form of waves. There’s a statue of Mega Gnar which, despite how diffuse it is, looks photorealistic. Besides some rocks for the champions to stand on, except Taliyah whose feet aren’t visible, we can only comment on how clear and fresh the water looks. It’s a setting for the champions to be present but there’s no content or meaning in it.
The champions appear in a way that part of their personality is visible in their stance. Xayah and Rakan hold hands to represent their link, Gnar is mildly curiuos, Taliyah is confident, Jarvan IV serious and Ezreal cocky. Each portrayal is eloquent enough about the look of each champion. Taliyah, being at the forefront shows the sharpest colours with an appealing soft glow on her strips; Jarvan IV and Gnar’s transparencies are more solid. Ezreal manages to show a nice glow to represent his powerful magic but Xayah and Rakan look a bit dull with washed out colours.
All added together, this is a shared splash art that takes the shared part to heart. Each champion gets a good share of the space available but the composition is content with simply showing each one. The setting has little significance and each champion is only able to display a bit of personality in their stance. The result is a splash art that works at the basics but doesn’t aim at anything else.
Rating: Star clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZeroStar clip art used in skin reviews at StrategyZero
Conclusion: SSG Jarvan IV reduces the amount of armour and replaces it with stylised, adventurer clothes with a noticeable blue palette. The lack of strong colour contrast doesn’t let the different elements to be noticed but the impractical and heavily ornamented spaulders surely don’t go unnoticed. With a crown on his head and a stylised lance in hand we find the same Prince Jarvan IV everyone knows but with a change of clothes. At least, the new gear stands apart rather well from the classic look.
Particles’ major contribution is the many blue mists that appear in the different attacks; quite noticeable on Martial Cadence and Dragon Strike. Golden Aegis also benefits from an elaborate, wavy pattern that matches the spaulders’ decoration; plus a not too subtle use of the SSG logo. Besides, Demacian Standard’s flag shows a delicate, magical mist that is very appealing. Cataclysm, for an ultimate, doesn’t feel that special. The ornamented rocks seem more magical but don’t have the raw power the ultimate ought to have.
Sounds feel more magical and delicate with higher-pitched versions of the classic ones. This gives an appealing magic feel to abilities but also makes them feel less lethal. For an ultimate like Cataclysm and other heavy-hitting abilities it’s not the best approach.
The new recall may very well be a reference to the associated player because it makes little sense for a fantasy realm. It’s also not something that catches the eye except for how little logic it has for someone without previous knowledge. Given that other skins have reached a good compromise between fantasy and team association this seems a letdown.
On the whole, SSG Jarvan IV is a skin with a more magical, bluish take on the Exemplar. The surface is different but the core is untouched. Still, for the changes it offers the skin is appealing. It just doesn’t feel enough for a special, legacy skin that should impress with its implementation.

Conclusion

Considering that Jarvan IV is a champion stuck with armour and lance he shows a fair bit of variety in his skins. Darkforge and Dragonslayer Jarvan IV are the recommended skins. They both show elegance and decorum in reasonable amounts along practical and deadly equipment.

Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV is definitely the best in terms of aspect as it provides a good dose of raw power and style for the Prince; despite being a little flamboyant sometimes. Unfortunately, the price is a relevant obstacle so it may be better to wait for a sale or simply leave it to more fervent fans.

Dark Star Jarvan IV is a skin that lack focus. It stands between the dark cosmos and dark crystal which compete for the spotlight. There are good changes but everywhere there’s a perceived ambiguity towards the skin’s identity. The result isn’t convincing which makes one wonder if this concept suits this champion well enough.

Finally, Commando Jarvan IV may appeal to army fans or those wanting a modern look for him. However, some will probably find his style too whimsical to their tastes; and it is.

SSG Jarvan IV is a skin that changes the surface with a more magical take on the Prince. The approach is appealing but the core of the champion remains intact. As this is a skin that is to be a special, legacy offering the result isn’t as impressive as one would expect.

  30 Responses to “League of Legends: Jarvan IV Skins’ Review”

  1. When are you going to review the new Lunar Revel skins? (Warring Kingdoms Jarvan IV and Xin, Jade Fang Cassiopeia, Dragonwing Corki) Last year they were fantastic and I want to know if they measure up πŸ™‚
    Especially Jarvan… he doesn’t seem to have any REALLY good skins. Just model changes.

    • We’ll review them shortly after they are released.

      Also, you forgot Panda Annie so next time you cross paths with her be careful with Tibbers.

      • Yeah I’m not too fond of Panda Annie… Panda Volibear just seemed so obvious and then I was cheated of a good Volibear skin.
        Tibbers better watch out if I cross paths him.

        • We agree that Volibear needs a good skin; the ones he has aren’t bad but neither are they impressive.

          Bear vs. bear, let’s see who remains; the little girl will probably have a say on the matter.

  2. Hey Zero, Love the reviews. It’s really been helping me decide and debate which skins are the best.

    However, my question is. Which Jarvan IV skin do you think is the best, concerning price AND the skin quality. I have been debating on the Warrior Kingdoms skin because of all the new particles, sounds and the
    new graphics for him. However do you think it is worth its price? The other skins all look pretty cool and are cheaper but they don’t have any new particles for his abilities besides the remodel of him and the lance.

    This will really help me out, Thank you.

    • Glad that you like the reviews and have found them useful.

      As far as skins for Jarvan IV go, Darkforge and Dragon Slayer are the best choices in terms of value. Warring Kingdoms surely is more daring and eye-catching with its new particles and sounds but, ultimately, only Cataclysm really stands out. The other additions are fine but considering the price one can expect the skin to be more consistently impressive. It’s acceptable for its price but needs more to be a great option.

      Nevertheless, Warring Kingdoms would be an interesting purchase when it goes on sale. At half the usual price it’s no longer such an expense; only patience is necessary. Of course, you could also wait for a sale on Darkforge and Dragon Slayer.

      In the end, consider which skins you like the most and how much you are willing to pay and wait for. Your personal preference should be the ultimate arbiter as it will directly affect the enjoyment of the skins you finally get.

      • Ah alright thank you! I didn’t know the Lunar Revel 2013 skins would be able to go on sale in the future, which was why I was wondering if that skin was worth the price. In my opinion skins are a want not really a need as they don’taffect gameplay, so the wait will be worth it when the time comes πŸ˜›

        • Not at all, Lunar Revel skins, despite being attached to a seasonal event, can go on sale just like any other normal skin.

          Indeed, sales are a great way of overcoming the price obstacle. If you are patient, they become quite useful to get access to a broader array of skins.

  3. Hi Zero,
    first of all thank you for all your hard work, i’ve been lurking in the website for a lot of months and i found all your reviews so invaluable.
    Your analyses are very accurate and well written.
    That said, i would like to try to help you if i notice something.
    Actually i noticed that Jarvan’s Golden Aegis has a new run animation opposed to all the others skins.
    Also i have a question.
    Your rating it’s the ratio between quality/price and that’s cool.
    I would find very useful also to know the best skin in term of execution, appeal and attractiveness without considering the price.
    A nice example would be Morgana’s skins. Before the increased price of Blackthorn Morgana, that skin had a 5 star rating and was the recommended skin.
    Now the recommended one is Blade Mistress because of the high rating quality/price but to me the best executed skin remains Blackthorn.
    Other than that i would like to ask you one more thing in the Graves section.
    Keep up the excellent work you do for the whole community not to mention the celerity you review the newest skins, i won’t thank you enough for this.
    Best regards

    • Thanks for the kind words and glad that you like the reviews; we’ll keep trying to improve.

      In terms of execution only, more expensive skins tend to have more elements added. Therefore, ultimate and legendary skins are the skins that, price being ignored, offer the best implementations; the most recent legendary ones to be precise. In fact, aside from 1350 RP skins and some at 975 RP skins, the others usually modify the model and nothing else.

      We find that the rating should include the price because while more money means more elaboration it may not always be worth the extra expense. We agree that Blackthorn Morgana looks fantastic but for a skin that only adds new particles, very good ones but just that, it seems a tad overpriced.

      We didn’t notice any new run animation in Jarvan’s Golden Aegis. Did you notice any differences among different skins?

      • Sorry Zero, i didn’t wrote the skin with the new animation. I meant that only Warring Kingdoms Jarvan has a new animation when he has Golden Aegis active. You can check it ingame or just use a model viewer, only Warring Kingdom has “Run 2” animation πŸ™‚
        Sorry again for being inaccurate.

  4. Your reviews are awesome. Can you do one on this year’s Lunar Revel skins?
    I want to see if I should buy B.B. Riven or Dragonblade Riven.
    It would be very appreciated, thanks!

    • Sure, as soon as they are released we’ll review them. Battle Bunny is certainly more comical than Dragonblade. However, we have to see if Dragonblade manages to implement its concept well enough.

  5. i think that the model for his flag (e) on comando and quite possibly all his skins are different, i saw this in a video and thought it was worth it to pint out.

    thanks for your reviews I consult them every time I think to purchase a skin and when i get a mystery skin I come to see your opinion.

    Regards – Keenan

    • Glad that you find the reviews useful.

      From what we’ve seen his Demacian Standard is just his lance driven into the ground with a little flag. We checked and the same flag is used between skins except for Warring Kingdoms which has a red-black flag instead of yellow-blue.

      Maybe we should point out that Demacian Standard is directly affected by the new lance model in each skin. We didn’t include it specifically because it doesn’t have any new particles and so it’s a sideeffect of the new lance. Thanks for the notice.

  6. Hey!
    Love the reviews, they’ve been helpful for getting some great skins without totally wearing out my wallet buying skins on a whim.

    But for Dragonslayer, I think the broken horn on his helm is symbolic of the dragon he and Shyv slayed, showing that they are a pair of horns taken from the dragon itself, broken in battle, and worn as a trophy.

    Just a thought! Keep up the great work!

    • Glad that you find the reviews useful.

      It’s an interesting way of looking at it. We can understand armour scarred by a great battle but, aside from the broken horn, everything looks quite new and polished. It’s good when skins add touches with hints to the lore but when they are isolated and seem incongruent with the rest of the skin they don’t add to the theme. It’s a detail, after all, and it doesn’t make or break the skin. However, it’s the little things like this that can put a skin beyond good and into greatness.

      Your interpretation is valid but it’s not clear in the skin. It’s possible yet the skin doesn’t make much with it. It a matter of making the whole design meaningful and have impact on the message that the concept wants to translate. That’s the job of the execution and, as we see, results do vary.

  7. At first, Dark Star J4 came off as odd to me…Then again, it could work if Riot came up with it but what do you think about Jarvan IV being in the Dark Star Universe, Zero? :/

    • We don’t the it as a concept that fits Jarvan IV particulary well. Of course, if the adaptation goes into deep in the theme then he could pass for a Space Warrior, Prince of the Cosmos. From what we’ve seen of the skin, that’s asking too much. It does the basics and while it isn’t bad the result doesn’t manage to make fit in.

      • They could have at least altered the “DEMACIAAA” scream when he ults…

        • Well, Lux keeps on yelling Demacia left and right even as a Star Guardian, Steel Legion and that’s just one example. With Dragon Master Swain they seem to have changed references to birds to dragons but that’s the exception to the rule.

  8. What makes Dark Star J4 not 2 stars?

    • The particles, like the animates stars on the shards of Cataclysm or the trail of the weapon when Jarvan leaps. The pattern used by Golden Aegis or the dusty glow of Dragon Strike. It’s really the only high point of Dark Star Jarvan IV. It isn’t enough to make the skin really special but it means that there’s something to like and that it’s something that’s worthwhile; at least to a point.

  9. I just wanted to add a comment regarding team skins like SSG J4: The “illogical” or non-fitting recalls are not chosen by Riot themselves, but instead by the winning players themselves as Riot specifically asks them what they want for their recall, then they bring them to the nearest Riot studio and animate them performing the same animation.

    • We understand but they still feel illogical within the fantasy of the game. We understand the idea but sometimes there are recall that suit the champion or the theme, if there’s a theme to the team skins, in some regard. In other cases, it seems like a whim and it shows, unfortunately.

  10. I’m normally not a fan of Jarvan IV, not in the term of gameplay (it’s decently balanced Tank champ) but his wardrobe is horrible. I know, you maybe thinking of Xin Zhao with no 4* star to be seen but at least i could say that he can have a better identity.

    This is kinda first time that i have to say that his upcoming newest skin as a part of Hextech is awesome. I understand the splash is copy n paste to Renekton but ingame look great to me.

    If you compare this to SSG and Dark Star, it’s look less toy-ish, plastic and look more knight appearance. By the times i write this comment, i have my own theory that champions have Hextech in their wardrobe are owning AP-ratio in their ability. So … OK that make sense of picking Jarvan.

    So hat off and hope you get less stress in writing skin reviews :D. We love it and can wait it. (so i can mock my friend that their skin used to call the best and now the worst)

    • It’s true, recent skins tend to be more toy-like. Hextech Jarvan IV is soberer and so a better fit for a prince-knight. Xin Zhao also has his good deal of skins but not always with enough depth to define a new identity. We don’t know yet if we would say that Hextech Jarvan IV is great but it doesn’t look bad at all. The problem with the Hextech line is that, as you mention, there’s a strict design that not all skins can capitalise on.

      Let’s hope for good skins which makes reviews much nicer to make.

  11. There is a new skin for Jarvan Hextech Jarvan I would like it if you made review of it πŸ™‚

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