Let's dive into a fascinating story of a video game franchise that could have been, and the intriguing possibilities it presented.
The Rise and Fall of Empires in Gaming
In the world of gaming, there are often untold stories and what-ifs that capture our imagination. One such tale revolves around the game 'Ryse: Son of Rome', an ambitious project that aimed to create an entire franchise, but ultimately met an uncertain fate.
A Cinematic Experience
'Ryse' stood out for its cinematic appeal. Developed by Crytek, this Xbox One launch title offered a visually stunning experience, more akin to a Hollywood blockbuster than a typical video game. The game's art director, Peter Gornstein, envisioned a world where players could explore history through the eyes of a Roman centurion, seeking revenge for his family's death.
Beyond Rome: Exploring New Frontiers
As the original game neared completion, the developers began brainstorming ideas for sequels. The question arose: should they stay in Rome, or venture into other ancient empires? Patrick Hanenberger, a production designer, proposed an exploration of how empires rise and fall, a theme that could connect various settings. The team considered settings like feudal Japan, with its rich history of Mongol invasions and civil wars, and the Ottoman Empire, which defeated the Byzantines.
The Viking Adventure
One particularly intriguing idea was a Viking-themed game. Gornstein envisioned players raiding along European coasts, reaching Newfoundland, and even serving as bodyguards in Constantinople. This setting offered a unique, relatively unexplored territory in gaming, especially considering the success of 'Assassin's Creed Valhalla' years later.
Open-Ended Design and Dynamic Gameplay
The planned sequels aimed to address some of the original game's weaknesses. The team envisioned a more open-ended design, similar to 'God of War' (2018), with improved level design and the introduction of new game mechanics. One anonymous employee expressed a desire to make single-player combat more dynamic, allowing players to leave and re-enter formations at will.
Aesthetics and the Supernatural
While 'Ryse' wasn't historically accurate, it aimed for psychological accuracy, capturing the awe and overwhelm a villager might feel upon visiting Rome. This approach would have been carried forward in the sequels, with a continued focus on the supernatural, exploring different mythologies and religions.
The End of an Empire
Despite Microsoft's enthusiasm for the franchise plan, 'Ryse' never truly took off. The game's underperformance, both critically and commercially, led to the franchise's limbo. The impasse between Crytek and Microsoft over IP rights ultimately halted the development of the sequels.
A Lasting Impact
For those who worked on 'Ryse', the experience was a mix of pride and disappointment. The game's dedicated cult following, however, speaks to the potential the franchise held. Personally, I believe 'Ryse' could have offered a unique, immersive experience, and I would have eagerly followed its journey through history.
This story serves as a reminder of the many paths a game franchise can take, and the intriguing possibilities that often remain unexplored.
