Hello to our fellow introverts, gamers, and accidental guests who stayed a bit too long!
Today, we’re excited to share a more personal behind-the-scenes look into the heart of Azooma Escape, specifically, the creation of our main character, Jaser.
Like many stories born out of chaos and family pressure, Jaser wasn’t just “designed”… he was relived.
Our lead artist and co-creator, Yaser Almehdi, gave Jaser more than just a face, he gave him part of his own childhood. The name Jaser is actually a real-life nickname given to Yaser by his late grandfather, who always called him “Jaser” by mistake or maybe out of love. Either way, it stuck. So when it came time to name our socially anxious, emotionally overwhelmed protagonist… there was no better fit.
“It felt right to bring back that name. Like a little easter egg from my family to the game’s family.” – Yaser
To get the right look and feel, Yaser actually photographed himself from all angles as reference. It wasn’t just a design process, it was a full-blown method acting despite it being a 2D Game (with fewer awards and more caffeine). Originally, the character design leaned more toward a middle-aged man, but that felt too… stable. Too wise. Too willing to attend social events.
We redesigned Jaser to be younger, more relatable, and infinitely more likely to trip over a plate of Samosa while trying to sneak past Auntie with the awkward questions.
Because Azooma Escape isn’t just about stealth, it’s about surviving awkward questions, unsolicited advice, and the intensity of cultural expectations. A younger Jaser makes the comedy hit harder. It’s funny when he hides in a pantry to avoid guests. It’s even funnier when he makes eye contact with a bowl of kabsa and has to choose between freedom or seconds.
Jaser isn’t just a game character, he’s a love letter to every quiet kid in a loud room.
A digital introvert armed with only his wits, awkward charm, and deep knowledge of where the guest slippers are hidden.
He’s Yaser.
He’s you.
He’s all of us who’ve ever wanted to sneak out of a family gathering without offending the entire tribe.
Which family member would be your FINAL BOSS in a stealth game? The interrogating aunt? The oversharing uncle? That cousin who remembers EVERYTHING embarrassing? We need to know for... research purposes!
Drop your family gathering horror stories in the comments, or hop into our Discord where fellow social stealth masters gather to share survival tips!
Friendly reminder: Real-life pantries don't have save points, but we wish they did!
~Team Azooma
P.S. - Jaser wants to say hi, but he's currently practicing his "blend into the wallpaper" technique behind this dev log!