Note: Readers will notice that some design elements from the sketches would be reused in later series.
A recurring design philosophy during the development of Kuuga was to modernize the Showa Rider aesthetics and look of the hero for the new millennium. To achieve this initiative, the concept team utilized elements of Ichigo, V3, Stronger, Black and ZO repeatedly in various ways to culminate to the final design as well as expanding on Black RX’s form change gimmick.
Kamen Rider Lady, There was at one point plans for a female Rider/sidekick in the show when Masato Hayase was working on it. For whatever reason it was scrapped during planning and pre-production. This design can be considered a precursor to the creation of Kamen Rider Femme in Ryuki.
A few sword-wielding Rider concept designs which would eventually become the basis for Titan Form.
Alternate early design of Kuuga Mighty Form and Arcle.
Initial concepts of Kuuga's forms, with his helmet design finalized.
Initial concept of Dragon Form (green) and Mighty Form (red). The Dragon Rod was originally going to be more of a spear.
Initial concept of Pegasus Form (purple) and Titan Form (blue).
Now with the armor designs finalized, although the color schemes were not yet changed. The belt design still had a few similarities with those of the Showa era. Also included are concepts for pink and orange-colored Growing Forms respectively.
Blue-colored Titan Form.
Purple-colored Pegasus Form.
Green-colored Dragon Form.
Early design of Kuuga Growing Form with Antenna
Titan and Dragon Form, now closer to their final designs.
An alternate design for Titan Form which would later become the basis for Rising Titan Form's design, along with Pegasus Form now closer to its final design.
The initial concepts of Kuuga's Rising Forms involved alternate designs and placements of the gold armor parts on each of Kuuga's four forms.
Early Design of Kuuga Ultimate Form helmet, conception reused as Kamen Rider Agito Burning & Shining Form horns.