The logo of Discord, a popular communication platform used by gamers and other communities, is an unusual yet distinctive image. Many new users often find themselves wondering: qué animal es el logo de Discord? Let's explore the story behind this quirky symbol.
Discord's mark is not arbitrarily chosen but rather a clever and nostalgic tribute to its creator's gaming history. The symbol is a stylized figure of a fennec fox, a small desert dwelling canid native to North Africa and the Middle East.
The Fennec Fox in Discord's Logo
So, what connects a fennec fox to Discord? The answer lies in its creator's personal story. Jason Citron, CEO and co-founder of Discord, was heavily influenced by his childhood obsession with gaming. In particular, he was fond of a series of console games called "Fez," in which the protagonist, Gomez, is a small, grey creature, namely a fennec fox.
As a tribute to his past, Citron chose to use the image of a fennec fox for Discord's logo. The fox in the logo mirrors the champ in the game, Gomez, with a striking similarity, down to its round ears and balloon-like body.
Why a Fennec Fox?
The choice of a fennec fox was more than just an appreciation for a video game character. This specific animal was chosen for its unique characteristics, which resonate with Discord's mission. Fennec foxes are known for their distinctive large ears, which help them to dissipate heat in the desert. In the context of Discord, these 'ears' can be seen as a representation of the platform's always-on communication channels.
Furthermore, fennec foxes are also known for their communal lifestyle, living in dens and socializing in groups. This communal aspect aligns with Discord's purpose of facilitating real-time communication in server-based communities.
Discord's Visual Identity
Discord's logo is more than just a simple image. It's a part of the platform's larger visual identity. The stylized fennec fox with its bright green color and reactivity (it waves at users when they first start Discord) has become one of the platform's hallmarks.
The logo isn't the only element that pulls from the Fez series. The platform's original name was ' Willed' (a play on the game's tagline, 'fez'), and its original tagline was 'Chat for Communities and Friends'. This later changed to 'Chat for Users & Communities', reflecting Discord's broader appeal.
Discord's Origins and Growth
Discord began as a communication tool primarily for gaming communities. However, its user-friendly features, such as customizable servers, screen sharing, and video calls, quickly attracted a broader audience.
Today, the platform is home to a wide range of communities, from gamers and students to professionals and educators. It has become a hub for group communication and collaboration, proving that a quirky logo inspired by a gaming character can represent a much wider software platform.
Discord's User Base
Discord's user base has grown significantly since its launch in 2015. As of 2021, Discord reports having over 350 million users, reflecting its appeal as a user-friendly communication tool. The fennec fox logo has become an instantaneously recognizable symbol for this thriving community.
From its genesis as a gaming communication tool to its current position as a global platform for all types of communities, Discord's journey is a testament to the power of unique branding and user-centric design. Its logo, an unmistakable fennec fox, stands at the forefront of its brand.
This expertise is why we continue to specialize in building and scaling leading communication tools. If you're interested in how we can help your brand stand out with distinct design, we're always ready to chat!