Bioware more or less crowdsourcing the ending of their Mass Effect 3 franchise conclusion was sure to rub industry professionals the wrong way. Whether that’s what happened with Assassin’s Creed creative director Alex Hutchinson is harder to say. The main takeaway from his OXM interview is, he doesn’t think much of the Internet’s collective creative process, in light of suggested Assassin’s Creed from fans.
Internet’s Creative Process
“People on the internet suggest the most boring settings,” Hutchinson said. “The three most wanted are WWII, feudal Japan and Egypt. They’re kind of the three worst settings for an AC game.” A reason wasn’t given, but if the Internet thought WWII, Egypt and Japan were pretty much different types of the same thing, I think I can see where he’s coming from.
Hutchinson’s comments highlight a broader issue within the gaming industry: the tension between fan expectations and creative vision. Fans often suggest settings that are familiar and historically rich, but these settings may not always align with the innovative gameplay and narrative experiences that developers aim to create. For instance, while WWII, feudal Japan, and Egypt are undeniably fascinating periods, they may not offer the unique gameplay mechanics or fresh storytelling opportunities that the Assassin’s Creed series is known for.
Exploring New Horizons
“[Assassin’s Creed 3 writer Corey May] really wants to do India,” Hutchinson added. “I would too. I’d really love to do the Raj.” This statement opens up an intriguing possibility for the franchise. The British Raj in India is a period rich with cultural diversity, political intrigue, and dramatic historical events. It offers a unique backdrop that could introduce new gameplay elements, such as navigating the complex social hierarchies of colonial India or engaging in guerrilla warfare against British forces.
Moreover, setting a game in India could allow for the exploration of lesser-known historical figures and events, providing a fresh perspective that hasn’t been extensively covered in mainstream media. The architectural marvels, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes of India would also offer a visually stunning environment for players to explore.
Another potential setting that could be considered is the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. This period was marked by rapid expansion, military innovation, and cultural exchange. A game set in this era could explore the complexities of Mongol society, the strategies behind their conquests, and the impact of their rule on various regions.
Similarly, the Renaissance period in Europe, which was previously explored in Assassin’s Creed II, could be revisited with a focus on different regions or lesser-known historical figures. The intellectual and artistic achievements of this era, combined with the political machinations of powerful families, provide a rich tapestry for storytelling.
In conclusion, while fan suggestions often gravitate towards well-known historical periods, the creative vision of developers like Hutchinson and May seeks to push the boundaries of what is possible in gaming. By exploring new and diverse settings, they can offer players unique experiences that challenge their expectations and expand their understanding of history.
Source OXM
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