IO Interactive, celebrated for the Hitman franchise, embarks on a new adventure with Project Fantasy, a promising entry into the online RPG arena. This article delves into Project Fantasy's details and IO Interactive's vision for the genre.
IO Interactive boldly ventures into uncharted territory with Project Fantasy, diverging from the stealth-focused gameplay of Hitman. Veronique Lallier, Chief Development Officer at IO Interactive, describes Project Fantasy as a "vibrant game, not delving into darker fantasy themes," emphasizing its status as a "passion project" for the studio.
While details remain scarce, Lallier expresses immense excitement for the project, highlighting the significant investment in talent acquisition—recruiting developers, artists, and animators specifically for Project Fantasy. This commitment suggests a serious push to redefine the online RPG landscape.
Speculation points towards a live-service RPG model, although the studio remains tight-lipped on specifics. Intriguingly, the officially submitted IP, codenamed Project Dragon, is categorized as an RPG shooter.
Drawing inspiration from the Fighting Fantasy book series, IO Interactive aims to revolutionize RPG storytelling in Project Fantasy. Instead of linear narratives, the game will feature a dynamic story system where player choices significantly impact the game world, influencing quests and events.
Beyond innovative storytelling, IO Interactive prioritizes community engagement. Lallier emphasizes the crucial role of player feedback in Hitman's success, promising a similar collaborative approach with Project Fantasy.
With IO Interactive's proven track record and commitment to innovation, Project Fantasy is poised to redefine the online RPG genre. Through dynamic storytelling, interactive environments, and strong community engagement, the game aims to deliver an unparalleled player experience.