XBALANQUE (Hero Twin)

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Alongside his brother Hunahpu, Xbalanque is one of the main Hero Twins, the protagonists of most of the surviving fragments that constitute Maya Mythology for us.

His name may translate as 'One Blowgunner' (his weapon) or 'Jaguar-Sun'. They are hunters who use blowguns to hunt birds and resort to clever trickery and deception to pass tests and challenges, including a voyage into the underworld (Xibalba).

Smite depicts him quite accurately to the myth, actually. They gave him a blowgun and various decorative elements, including the jaguar skin, which is referenced in the myth. The helmet and shield he wears are probably inspired by various carvings of Maya warriors. Ultimately it's a really great design and it was a lot of fun making this. It's a shame they didn't include his brother.

Xbalanque marks the end of my dive into Maya Mythology with this series.

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Credits go to Hi-Rez Studios (SMITE) for the character model and design.