ESPN – 3D Squad Character Behavior & Environment Build
ESPN partnered with Compadre to revitalize their streaming ecosystem by connecting with their audiences through fresh mascot characters and compelling storylines.
ESPN partnered with Compadre to revitalize their streaming ecosystem by connecting with their audiences through fresh mascot characters to fill any unused advertising space.
YOUR NEW GAME-DAY COMPANIONS
Meet Ez, ESPN’s newest character—fun, athletic, hip, and a little mischievous. Our task was to bring him to life, creating a dynamic character who unites fans and keeps the game exciting.
Meet Shay, the jock of the group. Being a sports fanatic is central to who she is, and when it comes to anything sports-related, she’s an absolute genius.
Meet PJ. His favorite thing in the world is kicking back with his buddies. If there’s a watch party, he’s planning it. He’s always up for joining the game, though “athletic” might not be the first word you’d use to describe him.
Meet Nora. She represents the cross-section of sports and culture, fashion, food, music & art. She is young, confident, creative, and brings that special sauce to the group. Social first and always carries her phone.
BRINGING THEM TO LIFE
FROM DETAILS TO PERSONALITY
Bringing these characters to life meant perfecting every detail, from their hair to the ripples in their clothes, while crafting their walk and playful behaviors. Every choice reflected their dynamic personality.
PERFECTING THE LOOK
Designing the squad was an iterative process, with countless refinements to every detail—from the thickness of their hair to the texture of their clothes, even the coarse nature of their fur. Each round brought us closer to capturing their fun, athletic, and unique spirits, perfectly embodying ESPN’s energy.
BUILDING THEIR WORLD
NEON
We designed four vibrant sports scenarios—golf, football, hockey, and basketball—with a neon athlete theme. Each environment was crafted to real-world dimensions, creating authentic backdrops for Ez to showcase his fun and athletic personality.
FAN CAVE
The Fan Cave is the ultimate hangout—a vibrant, sporty space that feels just like home for fans and friends alike. Designed to be fun, casual, and welcoming, it’s the perfect backdrop for our characters to connect, kick back, and celebrate what they love most.
THE PARK
The Park is a laid-back outdoor space where our characters come to play sports, hang out, and have fun. Designed for versatility, it features multiple uses and subtle details that bring the scene to life. It’s a simple, authentic environment that feels real and inviting.
IMMERSIVE SPORTS WORLDS EXPLORATION
We explored and refined every detail of the neon-themed golf, football, hockey, basketball, fan cave and park environments. Through multiple design iterations, we ensured each setting authentically captured its sport with accurate proportions and energy for the squad to shine.
Ez TAKES A SWING
Ez ON THE RINK
Ez BUCKETS
Ez THROWING DIMES
FLEXIBLE MESSAGING
We designed our environments with built-in flexibility, allowing for seamless integration of brand messaging and sponsorships, including partners like Disney+. This adaptability ensures the space stays fresh and relevant, no matter the campaign.
Ez’s BIG DEBUT
Ez’s launch made waves, with AdWeek spotlighting his debut as ESPN’s bold, athletic, and mischievous new mascot. As the first member of the ESPN Squad, Ez set the stage for a fresh approach to fan engagement and the future of streaming experience.
