In a recent streaming session, Raphaël Colantonio, co-creative director of the acclaimed video game Dishonored, took viewers on a nostalgic journey through one of the game’s most memorable levels, Lady Boyle’s Last Party. Joined by fellow Arkane team members, including co-creative director Harvey Smith, lead gameplay programmer Stevan Hird, and level designer Anthony Huso, the session offered a blend of gameplay and behind-the-scenes insights.
Rediscovering the Charm of Loading Screens
As the team navigated the intricacies of the level, a discussion emerged regarding the often-overlooked loading screens. Smith defended their presence, stating, “People think it’s an improvement that we got rid of loading screens, but honestly, I think a break between one area and the next allows players to acknowledge the transition. It creates a moment to breathe and appreciate the world-building through tips and in-fiction notes.” Colantonio echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the unique charm that these screens added to the gaming experience.
While Colantonio attempted to maintain a level of gameplay finesse—apologizing for any “super sloppy” moments—he reminisced about the challenges of revisiting a game he hadn’t played since its release 14 years ago. The combination of live commentary and controller in hand led to a playthrough filled with high chaos and unexpected escapades.
Unveiling Development Secrets
Beyond the gameplay, the stream unveiled intriguing tidbits about the game’s development. One notable revelation was a discarded plot point involving Daud, a character who was originally intended to sever Corvo’s hand—the very hand that grants him the Blink power. Smith expressed his fondness for this concept, suggesting that it would have added an engaging layer to the narrative. “I love the idea that your creepy marked-by-the-Outsider hand, your undead hand, either you have to play through as it for a while to get it back to Corvo or you had to go find it,” he remarked. This idea, although not fully realized in Dishonored, found a semblance of life in Dishonored 2, where a character gains powers through a mummified hand marked by the Outsider.
With Lady Boyle’s Last Party now behind them, the team has only four more levels to explore in their playthrough. Fans are hopeful that they will also delve into the Knife of Dunwall and Brigmore Witches expansions, which many consider the pinnacle of the Dishonored series. As the stream continues, there’s a growing anticipation for a potential reunion to tackle Prey, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting what’s next for this talented group.
Dishonored dev defends loading screens: ‘I actually have a soft spot for all that’
In a recent streaming session, Raphaël Colantonio, co-creative director of the acclaimed video game Dishonored, took viewers on a nostalgic journey through one of the game’s most memorable levels, Lady Boyle’s Last Party. Joined by fellow Arkane team members, including co-creative director Harvey Smith, lead gameplay programmer Stevan Hird, and level designer Anthony Huso, the session offered a blend of gameplay and behind-the-scenes insights.
Rediscovering the Charm of Loading Screens
As the team navigated the intricacies of the level, a discussion emerged regarding the often-overlooked loading screens. Smith defended their presence, stating, “People think it’s an improvement that we got rid of loading screens, but honestly, I think a break between one area and the next allows players to acknowledge the transition. It creates a moment to breathe and appreciate the world-building through tips and in-fiction notes.” Colantonio echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the unique charm that these screens added to the gaming experience.
While Colantonio attempted to maintain a level of gameplay finesse—apologizing for any “super sloppy” moments—he reminisced about the challenges of revisiting a game he hadn’t played since its release 14 years ago. The combination of live commentary and controller in hand led to a playthrough filled with high chaos and unexpected escapades.
Unveiling Development Secrets
Beyond the gameplay, the stream unveiled intriguing tidbits about the game’s development. One notable revelation was a discarded plot point involving Daud, a character who was originally intended to sever Corvo’s hand—the very hand that grants him the Blink power. Smith expressed his fondness for this concept, suggesting that it would have added an engaging layer to the narrative. “I love the idea that your creepy marked-by-the-Outsider hand, your undead hand, either you have to play through as it for a while to get it back to Corvo or you had to go find it,” he remarked. This idea, although not fully realized in Dishonored, found a semblance of life in Dishonored 2, where a character gains powers through a mummified hand marked by the Outsider.
With Lady Boyle’s Last Party now behind them, the team has only four more levels to explore in their playthrough. Fans are hopeful that they will also delve into the Knife of Dunwall and Brigmore Witches expansions, which many consider the pinnacle of the Dishonored series. As the stream continues, there’s a growing anticipation for a potential reunion to tackle Prey, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting what’s next for this talented group.