Video games and cinema have been inextricably linked since their respective inceptions. Interactions between the two are often a two-way street, with previously established video games being adapted into cinema, such as Mortal Kombat (1995), Tomb Raider (2001) and Resident Evil (2002), and films inspiring games like Street Fighter (1994). In recent years game developer Remedy Entertainment has pushed the boundaries of reality in video games by introducing new elements and expanding upon existing ones. This is due to the creative genius of one man, Sam Lake, their Creative Director.
Lake’s first foray into the video game industry was as a writer on Max Payne (2001) and Max Payne 2 (2003), during which he was lauded for his work in creating rich characters and atmospheric environments. He wanted the player to experience a genuine connection to the game, no small feat for a title in its infancy stages. His vision for Max Payne was to blur the line between interactive cinema and game, resulting in an immersive and emotional journey that will long be remembered.
His next project, Alan Wake (2010), took things even further. It featured strong character development, cinematic set pieces, an intricately woven narrative and an intense level of interactivity. Alan Wake was acclaimed not only for its critically acclaimed story and visuals, but for its narrative structure and integration with the interactive environment. Lake wanted players to feel like they were in the world, not just playing a game, and he succeeded.
Most recently, Remedy Entertainment’s Control (2019) pushed the boundaries of reality even further. The game moves away from the conventions of other titles, such as cinematics and linear stories, instead favouring a non-linear, vivid and surreal environment. It sees the player adventure through the mysterious Oldest House – an ever-changing dimension containing a variety of strange creatures, puzzles and an immense amount of detail. This mind-bending, ever-shifting world represents Lake’s ability to push the boundaries of reality in video games. It immerses the player in a vivid and unique experience, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
Sam Lake has consistently shown an exemplary understanding of video game narratives, characters and interactivity, and has repeatedly pushed the boundaries of reality in the medium. With each game, Lake has demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for creating immersive stories that blur the line between cinema and game, resulting in an engaging and unique experience for the player. Remedy Entertainment have secured their place among the elite of game development, and the creative brilliance of Sam Lake is at the heart of this.
