All that thought Blizzard was putting into a console incarnation of the world’s poorliest categorized action game with RPG elements? Nothing, compared to the push it’s going to get from now on. Gamescom, home of a million revelations and all of them about video games, can add another notch to its belt.
“Today, we’re trying to build the best console team at Blizzard. We’re looking for programmers, designers and artists who think their dream job would be to bring Diablo to the console.” Know who that is, talking? That’s Diablo III lead designer Josh Mosqueira and he doesn’t sound like he’s taking any prisoners on this. Also, Blizzard, while you’re at it, why not a team to polish off that Ghost code you’ve got kicking around seeing how you’re in a fan fantasy fulfilling mood and everything.
The Ambitious Console Transition
Blizzard’s ambition to bring Diablo III to consoles marks a significant shift in their development strategy. Historically, Blizzard has been a PC-centric developer, with their most successful franchises like Warcraft, Starcraft, and Diablo primarily thriving on personal computers. The move to consoles is not just a simple port but a comprehensive reimagining of how the game can be experienced on different platforms. This involves reworking the control schemes, user interfaces, and even gameplay mechanics to suit console players’ preferences. The goal is to ensure that the console version of Diablo III is not just a shadow of its PC counterpart but a fully-fledged experience that stands on its own.
Challenges and Opportunities
Transitioning a game like Diablo III to consoles is fraught with challenges. One of the primary concerns is the control scheme. Diablo III on PC relies heavily on mouse and keyboard inputs, which allow for precise control and quick access to various abilities. Translating this to a console controller, with its limited buttons and different ergonomics, requires innovative design solutions. Blizzard’s team will need to ensure that the game remains intuitive and responsive, providing the same level of excitement and engagement as the PC version.
Moreover, the user interface (UI) will need a complete overhaul. The PC version’s UI is designed for a high-resolution monitor and close-up viewing, whereas console players often sit farther from their screens. This necessitates larger text, simplified menus, and a more streamlined layout to ensure readability and ease of navigation.
Despite these challenges, the move to consoles also presents numerous opportunities. The console market is vast and diverse, offering Blizzard access to a broader audience. Many gamers prefer the comfort of playing on a console from their living room couch, and bringing Diablo III to these platforms can attract new fans who may not have experienced the game on PC. Additionally, consoles offer unique features such as local multiplayer, which can enhance the social aspect of Diablo III and make it a more communal experience.
Blizzard’s commitment to building the best console team underscores their dedication to this project. By recruiting top talent in programming, design, and art, they aim to create a console version of Diablo III that meets the high standards set by the original game. This endeavor is not just about expanding their market reach but also about delivering a high-quality gaming experience that resonates with console players.
In conclusion, Blizzard’s push to bring Diablo III to consoles is a bold and exciting move. It reflects their willingness to innovate and adapt to new platforms while maintaining the core elements that have made Diablo III a beloved game. As they assemble a top-tier console team and tackle the challenges of this transition, fans can look forward to a new way to experience the dark, immersive world of Diablo III.
Source Kotaku
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