🧨 Behind the Scenes continues – meet Mick! 🧨

This week, we’re taking you behind the design of one of the most explosive heroes in Aileronia. Mick’s aircraft was built for chaos — fitted with experimental bouncing bombs, it’s perfect for taking down enemy dams and large ships.

His fearless attitude and unpredictable flying style make him one of the most dangerous pilots in the sky. Every mission with Mick is a mix of skill, risk, and pure adrenaline.

Throughout the week, we’ll share concept art, early sketches, and behind-the-scenes stories from the creation of his aircraft.

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🍺💣 Mick – Concept Art

For Mick, we wanted to merge his life as a legendary brewer — crafting a beer so strong that only the most daring regulars could handle it — with his iconic rotating bombs, inspired by WWII innovations.

Our concept artist did an incredible job bringing this vision to life, capturing both his fiery personality and the chaotic energy of his airborne arsenal. This concept art is the first glimpse into Mick’s unique style and character in Aileronia.

Mick’s Cockpit – Concept Details

We stylized the cockpit after a classic Spitfire but added touches inspired by Mick’s lore. A tiny beer tap sits within reach — because Mick really doesn’t like flying thirsty!

This is what the cockpit looks like in its untextured form — just the pure 3D model. Our 3D artist really wrestled with it; according to her, it caused a few sleepless nights.

But the result is totally worth it. What do you think?

So, how do you like Mick’s Spitfire with its rolling bombs? Let us know!

In our previous article, we took a closer look at how Red Tail’s aircraft was created — from the first sketches to the final in-game model.

This time, we’re shifting our focus to Night Witch. Her plane reflects her fearless nature and connection to the night skies. Let’s take a look at its design, inspiration, and how it came to life during development.

Concept Art: Night Witch’s Aircraft

Night Witch’s aircraft is inspired by the 588th Night Bomber Regiment, an all-female unit from World War II. Pilots of this regiment flew the Polikarpov Po-2, affectionately known as the "Kukuruznik" (meaning "corn cutter" in Russian). To compensate for the aircraft's limited speed and power, pilots would take off at night, climb to the desired altitude, and then cut the engine, allowing the plane to glide silently over enemy lines. This eerie tactic, combined with the distinctive rattling sound of the Po-2's engine, led German soldiers to nickname them the "Night Witches".

Our character design honors these courageous women by blending elements of Slavic witchcraft and nature mysticism. The concept art reflects this fusion, showcasing a powerful female figure deeply connected to the natural world.

Night Witch and her aircraft, including a bomb concepts

Concept art of the cockpit

Based on this concept art, our team created a detailed 3D model of the cockpit, complete with proposed textures and materials.

3D model with plain textures

Based on these materials, a 3D model was created, complete with plain textures and proposed materials. Check out the rendered in-game model as well as some of the detailed cockpit elements that bring Night Witch’s fearless character to life.

Stay tuned for the next episode of our “Behind the Scenes” series, where we’ll showcase the aircraft of Rene, inspired by the legendary ace René Fonck.