Dead Cells, a standout title released in 2018, has been hailed as one of the finest roguelikes in gaming history. With a stunning visual presentation and combat mechanics that captivated players, it earned a commendable 90% rating in reviews. Over the past seven years, the game has seen a remarkable evolution, featuring 35 updates and the establishment of a dedicated spin-off studio. While many might have anticipated a sequel, Dead Cells 2, developer Motion Twin has chosen a different path, unveiling an entirely new project titled Windblown.
Creative Freedom in Game Development
Yannick Berthier, co-creative director and game designer at Motion Twin, recently shared insights with PCGamesN regarding this decision. The studio, comprising just nine partners, operates with a unique sense of autonomy, allowing them to pursue projects that resonate with their creative vision. “We are driven by what we want to make,” Berthier remarked, highlighting the studio’s commitment to artistic freedom.
In 2023, Dead Cells achieved a significant milestone, selling over 10 million copies, a feat that grants the team considerable leeway in their future endeavors. However, the pressure from fans remains palpable. Berthier acknowledged the external expectations, noting that every social media post often invites inquiries about a potential Dead Cells sequel. “It’s fine. That’s our reality,” he stated, reflecting on the balance between creative ambition and audience anticipation.
Interestingly, Motion Twin has not been directly involved in the ongoing development of Dead Cells for several years. That responsibility has shifted to Evil Empire, a spinoff studio established in 2019. Evil Empire has successfully released multiple DLCs for Dead Cells and recently launched The Rogue Prince of Persia. Tensions arose when the conclusion of Dead Cells’ development was announced in 2024, with designer Sebastien Benard expressing his discontent regarding the studio’s handling of the situation. He revealed that Evil Empire had plans for additional DLCs extending into 2024 and 2025, which added to the complexity of the transition.
While having a hit game that garners demand for more content can be a double-edged sword, it also opens doors for creative exploration. Developers like those behind Hollow Knight have leveraged their success to create sequels, while others, such as Eric Barone, continue to expand on beloved titles like Stardew Valley. The essence of the gaming industry lies in the ability to pursue diverse creative paths, each requiring that initial spark of success to fuel future projects.
Motion Twin’s latest venture, Windblown, is currently in early access on Steam. Although it has not yet reached the acclaim of its predecessor, the studio remains committed to its development, showcasing their dedication to innovation and the pursuit of new gaming experiences.
