Fez, the perspective-bending puzzle platformer that took XBLA by moderate downpour earlier this year, has been announced for other platforms. Fez creator Phil Fish has had his hands full this year, from being featured in the indie documentary Indie Game: The Movie, notoriously refusing to pay Microsoft’s fees to fix an issue affecting Fez saves, and catching press attention for disparaging the entire Japanese game industry in a GDC remark.
The news comes from a hefty post on the Polytron blog by creator Phil Fish, who also touches on the controversies (manufactured or otherwise) he’s been involved in over the past year while pondering future possibilities. Right after making Fez available on other platforms. “Yes, I’ve heard you, dozens of people emailing me every day telling me how much of an idiot I am for not porting FEZ to everything,” Fish wrote. “It’s just me now. I could do anything with this company, but I don’t know what yet.”
Fez’s Unique Gameplay and Design
Fez is renowned for its unique gameplay mechanics that involve rotating a 2D world to reveal new paths and solve puzzles. This innovative approach to platforming has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The game’s charming pixel art style and atmospheric soundtrack further enhance its appeal, creating an immersive experience that stands out in the indie game scene.
The game’s protagonist, Gomez, embarks on a journey to restore the shattered Hexahedron, a powerful artifact that grants him the ability to perceive the third dimension. Players must navigate through a series of increasingly complex levels, each filled with hidden secrets and challenging puzzles. The game’s non-linear structure encourages exploration and rewards players for their curiosity and ingenuity.
Phil Fish’s Controversial Year
Phil Fish’s year has been anything but ordinary. His outspoken nature and candid remarks have often landed him in hot water. One of the most notable incidents was his refusal to pay Microsoft’s exorbitant fees to patch a save corruption issue in Fez. This decision sparked a heated debate within the gaming community about the responsibilities of developers and platform holders.
Fish’s comments at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) also drew significant attention. He criticized the Japanese game industry, calling it “terrible” and suggesting that it had fallen behind its Western counterparts. These remarks were met with backlash from both fans and industry professionals, further fueling the controversy surrounding Fish.
Despite these challenges, Fish remains committed to his vision for Fez and his future projects. His passion for game development is evident in his willingness to take risks and push boundaries, even if it means facing criticism and adversity.
Future Prospects for Fez and Polytron
With the announcement of Fez’s availability on other platforms, fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to experience the game on their preferred devices. The expansion to additional platforms not only broadens the game’s reach but also introduces it to a new audience who may have missed out on its initial release.
As for Polytron, the future holds many possibilities. Fish’s statement, “I could do anything with this company, but I don’t know what yet,” hints at a period of reflection and potential reinvention. Whether it involves new projects, collaborations, or further expansions of Fez, the gaming community is keen to see what Fish and Polytron will bring next.
In conclusion, Fez’s journey from an XBLA hit to a multi-platform phenomenon is a testament to its innovative design and enduring appeal. Phil Fish’s tumultuous year has only added to the game’s mystique, making its continued success all the more impressive. As Fez prepares to captivate new audiences, the legacy of this perspective-bending puzzle platformer is sure to grow even stronger.
Source: Polytron
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