Dying Light: The Beast is the latest DLC-turned-game from developer Techland that is bridging the gap between big AAA releases and smaller, more compact experiences. Franchise director Tymon Smektała believes that these AA experiences might be the future of games. The upcoming standalone game, which was originally meant to be a DLC for Dying Light 2, is said to offer 18+ hours of gameplay. Smektała describes it as more compact than a AAA game, focusing on what’s important rather than sheer size.
In a world where players are increasingly strapped for time, Smektała highlights the struggle of fitting in massive games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, which can take over 100 hours to complete. With real life responsibilities and distractions, committing to such lengthy games becomes challenging. This is where games like Dying Light: The Beast come in, offering a satisfying experience within a reasonable timeframe for both players and developers.
Smektała emphasizes the importance of taking creative risks and trying new things in game development. By not having a massive team working on a game for years, creators can explore different ideas and innovate more freely. This approach allows for more diverse and unique gaming experiences that cater to a wider audience.
The trend towards smaller, more focused games is not limited to Techland. Other developers, such as Obsidian and EA’s Cliffhanger, have also expressed the benefits of creating AA games. These smaller projects can prevent burnout, improve staff retention, and foster creativity within AAA studios. It seems that the industry is recognizing the value of these more manageable projects in addition to the blockbuster releases.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, we can expect to see more of these AA experiences from big studios. Games like Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed: Mirage are paving the way for more compact, meaningful interactive entertainment. This shift towards smaller releases is seen as a positive development that offers players diverse gaming options and allows developers to explore new ideas and concepts.
In conclusion, Dying Light: The Beast and other AA games are shaping the future of the gaming industry. By providing players with engaging experiences in a more manageable format, these games offer a refreshing alternative to the massive, time-consuming titles of the past. As developers continue to embrace this trend, we can look forward to a more diverse and innovative gaming landscape that caters to a wider range of players.