Q&A with Huxley Developers
- May 16, 2005 02:10 AM PST
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Korean developer Webzen attempts to enter the next-gen console gaming market with a bang with MMO-FPS Huxley.
We recently had a chance to dialogue with Webzen, the developers behind MMO-FPS game Huxley.Gamepro: What are the challenges in developing on a next-generation console? Are there issues of spiraling development costs, larger staff, more complex logistics, etc.?
Webzen: All characters are made in normal mapped, high polygon models, and compared to the [current generation], games require four times the staff. With more developers and a more complicated production process, the productions costs rise. But the most challenging part is game design. We are planning to produce a totally new gameplay experience compared to previous games, and are certain that this new style of gameplay will give users new challenges and experiences.
GP: Why an FPS MMO for Huxley, as opposed to a smaller-scale online FPS such as SOCOM or Battlefield 2 Modern Combat?
Webzen: The primary reason why Huxley is an MMO is so we could create a game that is totally different from the existing single-player/multiplayer FPS genre games--and have gameplay that is only possible in an MMO environment.
GP: What types of RPG elements can we expect from Huxley, if any?
Webzen: The character growth system in Huxley is one element we've taken from RPGs, and of course, there are grand storylines to follow, and missions and quests to take like in other RPG games, but they exist mainly to enhance the MMO-style FPS.
GP: Will there be more tactical, squad-based elements given the massively-multiplayer arena--the FPS equivalent of parties and raid groups in RPGs?
Webzen: When in battle it is possible to form a squad. Squad battles will be very tactical--for example, higher ranking officers may issue orders or assign targets to the junior officers. Also, Huxley will progressively support guild and clan systems similar to what's seen in RPGs.
GP: Will there be guilds and other features that promote online communities in-game?
Webzen: Yes, there is no question about that. Huxley will have unique community features to make gamers feel like they are really "role-playing" in a tightly weaved community. You will see what I mean when you play it. GP: Will areas be instanced (such as GuildWars) or be one continuous world? Webzen: Both will exist. Certain battle zones will be instanced while others are not. We're using streaming loading technology to minimize or eliminate loading time, and will implement a combination of both types of worlds without sacrificing MMO or FPS elements.
GP: As one of the few Korean companies at the forefront in developing on next-generation consoles, how do you feel about breaking into a industry that's predominantly Japanese and U.S. (in terms of developers and publishers)?
Webzen: As a developer in Korea I am really happy to be working in an environment where I can compete in world gaming market. It is true that until now, Japan and the U.S had better technology and success. However, Korean developers are growing at an accelerated pace, and I have no doubt that we will produce games with the same quality as those from Japan and the U.S.
GP: Are you looking into developing on other next-generation systems, such as the PlayStation 3 or Nintendo Revolution?
Webzen: We don't have enough information to make that decision at the moment. We're certain about developing for the next generation Xbox though. But as a gamer myself I am really excited about the other next-generation console systems.
