Journey, the brainchild of the commercially successful art game poster child thatgamecompany, has been announced for release on March 14th. From my time with Journey at last year’s Eurogamer Expo, it seemed to follow a more traditional and structured approach than Flower, the studio’s best-known effort. It did share Flower’s casual disinterest in mechanics with any sort of friction, giving it the appearance of an empty framework which rich atmosphere and lush visuals are expected to fill on their own.
The Development Journey
“Much sweat and tears have been put into the development of the game, and many people have come and gone. So for us, the Journey in the game has also become a metaphor for the development process of the game itself,” according to thatgamecompany’s Jenova Chen.
The development of Journey has been a long and arduous process, reflecting the game’s own themes of exploration and perseverance. The team faced numerous challenges, from technical hurdles to creative differences, but these obstacles only served to strengthen their resolve. The game’s development spanned over three years, during which the team meticulously crafted every aspect of the game, from its stunning visuals to its evocative soundtrack.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Journey offers a unique gameplay experience that sets it apart from traditional video games. Players control a robed figure who traverses a vast desert, aiming to reach a distant mountain. The game emphasizes exploration and discovery, with minimalistic controls that allow players to focus on the experience rather than complex mechanics. The absence of dialogue and text encourages players to interpret the story and world in their own way, fostering a deeply personal connection to the game.
One of the most innovative features of Journey is its multiplayer component. Players can encounter other robed figures controlled by real people, but communication is limited to simple musical chimes. This creates a sense of camaraderie and shared experience without the need for words, highlighting the universal themes of connection and cooperation.
“Our team is very close to our own mountaintop; we are just a few short weeks away from letting the world experience what we’ve poured our hearts and souls into these last three years. I can’t describe how eager we are to let everyone finally play the game and hear about your experiences with it,” Chen added.
The game’s art direction is another standout feature. The desert landscape is rendered in breathtaking detail, with shifting sands and dynamic lighting that create a sense of wonder and awe. The robed figure’s movements are fluid and graceful, adding to the game’s ethereal quality. The soundtrack, composed by Austin Wintory, complements the visuals perfectly, with haunting melodies that evoke a range of emotions.
Journey has already garnered significant attention and praise from the gaming community and critics alike. Its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay has set it apart as a landmark title in the world of video games. The anticipation for its release is palpable, with many eager to embark on their own journey through the game’s mesmerizing world.
In conclusion, Journey is poised to be a groundbreaking title that will leave a lasting impact on the gaming industry. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and emotional depth make it a must-play for anyone seeking a truly unique gaming experience. As the release date approaches, the excitement continues to build, and it won’t be long before players around the world can finally experience the magic of Journey for themselves.
Source PlayStation Blog
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