IO Interactive, the studio behind the acclaimed Hitman series, is venturing into a new frontier with their latest endeavor, Project Fantasy. This upcoming title promises to reshape the landscape of Online RPGs. Let's delve deeper into what Project Fantasy entails and how IO Interactive aims to innovate within this genre.
A New Direction for IO Interactive
Project Fantasy: A Vibrant Passion Project
IO Interactive is charting a bold new course with Project Fantasy, moving away from the stealth and intricacy that characterized the Hitman series. Veronique Lallier, IO Interactive's Chief Development Officer, described Project Fantasy as a "vibrant game that doesn't delve into darker fantasy." She emphasized that it is "definitely a passion project for us and for our studio."
While details remain sparse, Lallier shared her excitement, stating, "It’s a very exciting project, very close to my heart." As IO Interactive recruits more developers, artists, and animators specifically for this project, it's clear that they are committed to pushing the boundaries of the Online RPG genre.
There is speculation that Project Fantasy could be a live service RPG, but the studio has kept the specifics under wraps. The game's official IP, filed under the codename Project Dragon, is currently listed as an RPG Shooter.
Project Fantasy Drawing Inspiration from Fighting Fantasy Books
Innovative Storytelling and Player Engagement
IO Interactive is drawing inspiration from the Fighting Fantasy books, a series of Role Playing Game books, to craft a unique storytelling experience in Project Fantasy. The studio aims to integrate branching narratives and a dynamic story system, allowing the game world to react to players' choices in significant ways. This approach promises to create quests and events that revolve around the players' actions, setting it apart from the more linear narratives of traditional RPGs.
Furthermore, IO Interactive is dedicated to fostering strong community engagement. Lallier pointed out that the success of Hitman was partly due to their attentiveness to the player community, which helped foster growth and innovation. With this approach, IO Interactive is not just entering the Online RPG market; they are well-positioned to redefine it.
The future looks incredibly promising for Project Fantasy. With IO Interactive's track record of genre innovation and their commitment to dynamic storytelling, interactive environments, and community engagement, players can anticipate a truly unique and engaging experience.
