As October unfolds, the gaming world embraces the season of spookiness, and few titles capture the essence of horror quite like Dead by Daylight. In a recent conversation with DBD’s creative director, Dave Richard, we delved into the game’s latest killer, the beautifully grotesque Krasue, a character steeped in Thai folklore. Richard shared insights into her compelling narrative and the creative process behind her integration into the game.
The Allure of the Krasue
The Krasue, as Richard explains, is a haunting figure born from a tale of beauty turned monstrous. “We have this generally beautiful woman,” he notes, “who makes some terrible choices and becomes cursed to roam the night as the Krasue.” This transformation manifests as a disembodied head, with her insides trailing behind, eternally hunting in the dark. Richard elaborates, “When women become the Krasue, they hunt the living, consuming anything they can find—trash, corpses, dead animals—always driven by an insatiable hunger.” This relentless pursuit makes her an ideal addition to The Entity’s Realm.
What captivated the development team was the striking duality of the Krasue’s character. “The juxtaposition between beauty and violence was really interesting to us,” Richard recalls. During user research, the concept resonated deeply with focus groups. Participants expressed excitement about the potential for stealthy approaches, relishing the idea of surprising survivors with a sudden shift from beauty to horror. “They were eager to embrace the grotesque,” he adds, a promising sign for the character’s design.
A Transformation Like No Other
The Krasue’s unique gameplay mechanics hinge on her transformative ability. When activated, Burong Sukapat sheds her human form, revealing the disembodied head that embodies her killer persona. “We faced challenges in making this transition seamless,” Richard admits. “It was crucial for us to create two distinct models that offered different gameplay experiences.” The team aimed for a transformation that was both rapid and visceral, ensuring it aligned with the game’s gory aesthetic. “Every chapter we create pushes us to explore new technological frontiers,” he adds, reflecting on the team’s commitment to innovation.
To enhance the character’s depth, the Krasue boasts two distinct voices. Richard explains, “Sukapat is an opera singer, while The Krasue represents the corruption of beauty and society.” This duality was brought to life through the talents of two voice actresses. Dr. Organ Prawang, a Thai opera singer with a PhD, lends her voice to Sukapat, while death metal vocalist Roxana B.L. embodies the killer. “Roxana’s expertise in vocal techniques made her the perfect choice for capturing the creature’s essence,” Richard notes, highlighting the thoughtful casting process.
Drawing Inspiration from Global Folklore
As the conversation shifts to the broader landscape of Dead by Daylight, Richard emphasizes the game’s commitment to diversity and global representation. “Horror is a universal concept,” he states. The team’s decision to feature the Krasue stemmed from its popularity in Thailand and the rich tapestry of South Asian folklore. “We wanted to honor our Thai community with a character that resonates,” he explains, underscoring the significance of cultural authenticity in their design choices.
With a sizable player base in Brazil, Richard hints at future expansions that may draw from other cultures. “We want to explore horror stories from around the world,” he says enthusiastically. “These narratives are not just about ticking boxes; they are genuinely fascinating and reflective of our shared human fears.” Although he refrains from divulging specific details about upcoming characters, his excitement for the game’s future is palpable.
As our discussion wraps up, Richard’s passion for Dead by Daylight and its potential remains evident. While he declines to share a glimpse of the world map that charts future chapters, it’s clear that the journey ahead is filled with shadowy secrets waiting to be uncovered.
