Eagerly anticipated indie game Fez has been submitted for final XBLA approval after being announced in 2008. The innovative platformer has suffered a series of delays, but managed to draw critical attention during the long development process through impressive showings at events. Indie Game: The Movie, a documentary highlighting the game’s development has since been produced and optioned by HBO.
The developers can certainly see the humour in massive delays for a 2D indie platformer, a problem usually associated with AAA industry blockbusters. “When we said Fez was coming out in Q1 2012, what we really meant was Q1 of Q2 2012,” they posted on their Twitter feed. Here’s hoping those four long years made for a smooth submission process.
The Journey of Fez’s Development
Fez’s development journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Initially announced in 2008, the game quickly garnered attention for its unique gameplay mechanics and charming art style. The game features a 2D character navigating a 3D world, which can be rotated to reveal new paths and solutions to puzzles. This innovative approach set Fez apart from other platformers and generated significant buzz in the gaming community.
However, the road to completion was fraught with challenges. The small development team at Polytron faced numerous technical and creative hurdles. The complexity of implementing the game’s rotation mechanic required extensive testing and iteration. Additionally, the team had to ensure that the game’s puzzles were challenging yet fair, which added to the development time.
Impact and Anticipation
Despite the delays, Fez maintained a strong presence in the indie game scene. The game was showcased at various gaming events, including the Independent Games Festival, where it won the Excellence in Visual Art award in 2008. These appearances kept the game in the public eye and built a dedicated fanbase eagerly awaiting its release.
The anticipation for Fez was further amplified by its inclusion in Indie Game: The Movie. The documentary provided an in-depth look at the struggles and triumphs of indie game developers, with Fez serving as a central narrative. The film’s success brought even more attention to the game and highlighted the passion and dedication of its creators.
As the game approached its final stages of development, the team at Polytron remained transparent with their fans. They frequently updated their Twitter feed with progress reports and humorous anecdotes about the development process. This open communication helped maintain a positive relationship with their audience, despite the extended wait.
The submission of Fez for final XBLA approval marks a significant milestone in its development. The team at Polytron can now look forward to sharing their creation with the world. The game’s unique blend of 2D and 3D gameplay, combined with its charming art style and engaging puzzles, promises to deliver a memorable experience for players.
The journey of Fez from its announcement in 2008 to its final submission in 2012 is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of indie game developers. The game’s innovative mechanics and captivating design have kept fans eagerly awaiting its release, and its inclusion in Indie Game: The Movie has only heightened the anticipation. As Fez prepares to make its debut on XBLA, it stands as a shining example of the creativity and passion that drive the indie game industry.
Source Polytron
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