Stories explained

Shiva's 2022 SMITE debut: mythology, Warrior design and two states

The February 22, 2022 update introduced Shiva as a Warrior whose abilities alternate between Bliss and Destruction. The developers described consulting on the portrayal.

An original NewsCubby historical explainer. Event dates appear in the article; this is not a breaking-news announcement.

The design described by the developers

SMITE's February 22, 2022 Xbox Wire introduction presented Shiva as a new Warrior in the game's Season 9. The developers explained that they used a consultant on Hinduism and researched the visual design, animation and abilities. Shiva is actively worshiped, so the account explicitly distinguished this work from treating a character solely as a fictional combat archetype.

The gameplay concept used alternating Bliss and Destruction states. These supplied different secondary effects and passive bonuses. The launch account also highlighted Shiva Tandava, an ultimate ability structured around a dance and different steps.

Source [1]

What the launch article does not promise

This is a description of the 2022 introduction, not a recommendation to buy an old season pass or a claim that launch balance values still apply. Prices, bundles and live-service abilities can change. Consult the game's current official update notes before making a purchase or following a competitive build.

K'Sante's League of Legends introduction offers another example of character design that links a cultural background to a gameplay tradeoff. Comparing the developers' stated goals is useful; assuming identical roles across the two games is not.

Source [1]

Sources and further reading

  1. Xbox Wire — New SMITE update: The Destroyer, February 22, 2022 ↗