Hazelight Founder Explores the Inclusion of Side Quests and Scene Recycles: An 80.lv Discussion
in this comprehensive discussion, the founder of Hazelight Studios, Josef Fares, takes us on a deep dive into the intricate world of video game development, with exacting focus on the frequently enough-underexplored elements of side quests and scene recycling.
For those unacquainted, Hazelight Studios clinched the limelight with their adventure game ‘A Way out,’ that took co-operative gameplay to a new level. They followed up its success with ’It Takes Two,’ another co-op focused title that has been hailed as an innovative breakthrough in the genre.
Relevance of Side-Quests
Incredibly passionate about the topic, Fares started the discussion by examining the role of side quests in contemporary gaming. Being an inherent part of many gaming narratives, Fares believes that they should not simply be dismissed as optional content.
“In essence, side quests should enhance the main story narrative.”
Fares opined. He whent on to elucidate that if we develop side quests with the same level of nuance and detail as the main quests, they transform from being mere add-ons to being an integral component of the complete story experience. They provide the perfect guise for additional content while continuing to enrich the main narrative.
Scene Recycling: A Fine Balance
Next on the agenda was the complex and sensitive subject of scene recycling. Scene recycling refers to the reuse of in-game locations or assets. It’s a prevalent practice as it allows developers to save both time and resources. Yet, if exploited, it can make the game repetitive, consequently losing its charm.
“The key here is to strike a balance. You don’t want to reuse so much that the player feels like they’re stuck in a loop.”
Fares admonishes. He adds that efficient scene recycling can prove to be a powerful tool. By reusing certain elements, developers can create a sense of familiarity and continuity in the game world. Provided that the player doesn’t feel like they’re experiencing the recycled content in the exact same context or purpose,scene recycling can provide an extremely beneficial game design asset.
Final Thoughts
Towards the end of the discussion, Fares stressed the importance of paying attention to the smallest details in the game development process. Whether it’s the crafting of side quests or the tactful reuse of game assets, striking the right balance is key. In the world of gaming, it’s these intricate details that truly heighten a player’s experience.
the exploration of these under-discussed aspects of game development by an industry stalwart like Fares brings invaluable insights into the behind-the-scenes of game creation. Keeping a keen eye for detail while striking the right balance is the mantra, as per Fares. undoubtedly, this discussion contributes greatly to our understanding of the art and modern philosophies of game design.
